Run: 2026-02-20-01KHXQ2BQYWDJZ3QZW6YMF8AYG

<nc-section data-title="A Harsh Welcome" data-color="red"> As I dismounted Thunder, my boots sinking slightly into the damp earth, a gruff voice cut through the evening air like a blade. **"You’re late, boy."** Sir Roland stood before me, his armor still gleaming despite the fading light, though his expression was as cold as the steel he wore. His dark beard was streaked with silver, and his piercing gaze seemed to strip me of any confidence I’d mustered on the ride here. **"The stablemaster doesn’t wait for stragglers. See to your horse yourself—then report to the training yard. And don’t dawdle."** He turned on his heel, his cloak swirling behind him like a storm cloud. My stomach twisted. This was not the heroic welcome I’d imagined. </nc-section> --- <nc-section data-title="A Test of Mettle" data-color="green"> The clatter of hooves had barely faded when a broad-shouldered figure stepped from the shadows of the stables, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. **"Frederick, I presume?"** Sir Roland’s voice was deep but not unkind, his eyes sharp with curiosity as they flicked over Thunder and then back to me. **"A fine steed you’ve got there. But tell me—did you ride all this way just to gawk at the castle, or do you intend to prove yourself?"** He crossed his arms, the faintest smirk playing at the corner of his mouth. **"The first lesson of knighthood: a knight acts, even when he’s unsure. So—what’s your move, squire?"** My pulse quickened. This was no mere greeting; it was a challenge. </nc-section> --- <nc-section data-title="An Unexpected Ally" data-color="blue"> I was brushing down Thunder’s flank when a warm chuckle drew my attention. **"You’ve got a gentle hand with him. That’s good."** Sir Roland leaned against the stable door, his armor polished but his manner surprisingly relaxed. He tossed me a carrot from his pocket. **"For your horse. And for you—a word of advice."** His tone softened as he stepped closer. **"This castle isn’t what it seems. The knights here… we’re not just training squires. We’re preparing for something far greater."** A shadow passed over his face, but just as quickly, it was gone, replaced by a grim smile. **"You’ll learn soon enough. For now, rest. Tomorrow, the real work begins."** I frowned, the carrot suddenly heavy in my hand. What had I truly ridden into? </nc-section>