Run: 2026-02-20-01KHY9N2YT3H5FN3BQXDQW3J9Q

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: The Knight’s Welcome (Red)" data-color="red"> The stables groaned under the weight of hooves as Thunder’s massive frame filled the entrance. Frederick dismounted with a bow, his breath misting in the cool evening air. Sir Roland stood just beyond the stable doors, his armor gleaming under the fading light, his dark eyes sharp with curiosity. He stepped forward, his voice low and steady, "You’ve come a long way, young man. The castle has been expecting you." Frederick swallowed hard, his fingers tightening around the reins. "I—I’ve been instructed to train under your guidance, Sir Roland. To learn the ways of a knight." Sir Roland’s expression softened slightly, though his gaze remained unwavering. "The ways of a knight are not just in steel and sword, Frederick. They are in the heart. Tell me, what brought you here?" Thunder snorted, his ears twitching as if sensing the weight of the moment. Frederick hesitated, then spoke with a quiet determination. "I’ve always dreamed of protecting those who cannot protect themselves. Of standing tall when the world turns dark." Sir Roland nodded, his voice heavy with meaning. "Then you’ve chosen the right path. But remember—true strength is not just in the blade, but in the choices you make when no one is watching." As Frederick turned to mount again, Sir Roland called after him, "And Frederick? Always listen to your heart. It will never lead you astray." </nc-section> --- <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: The Knight’s Trial (Green)" data-color="green"> The scent of aged wood and damp stone filled the air as Frederick approached the stables, Thunder’s hooves echoing against the stone. Sir Roland stood near the entrance, his sword resting against his hip, his expression unreadable. He didn’t speak at first, just watched as Frederick dismounted, his breath visible in the crisp evening. Frederick’s hands trembled slightly as he reached for the saddle. "Sir Roland, I—" A sharp bark from Thunder interrupted him. The stallion reared, his eyes wild with fear. Frederick’s grip tightened on the reins, his knuckles white. Sir Roland stepped forward, his voice a low growl. "You’ve got a problem here, boy." Frederick swallowed hard. "Thunder’s nervous. He’s never been around knights before." Sir Roland’s gaze flicked to Frederick, then back to Thunder. "Nervous? That’s not how I remember him." He reached out, his fingers brushing Thunder’s mane. The horse whinnied, but didn’t bolt. "You’ve got to learn to trust him. And you’ve got to learn to trust yourself." Frederick’s heart pounded. "What do you mean?" Sir Roland’s expression darkened. "You’re not ready for this. Not yet." He turned, his voice dropping to a whisper. "But I’ll give you a chance. Prove yourself. And if you fail? Well…" He didn’t finish the thought, but Frederick understood. The weight of expectation settled over him like a shroud. Thunder let out a deep sigh, as if sensing the tension. Frederick exhaled, forcing himself to meet Sir Roland’s eyes. "I’ll do my best, Sir Roland. I promise." </nc-section> --- <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: The First Lesson (Blue)" data-color="blue"> The golden light of dusk spilled over the castle gates as Frederick rode into the stables, Thunder’s hooves kicking up dust. Sir Roland stood just inside the entrance, his broad shoulders blocking the last of the fading light. His armor was immaculate, his sword at his side, but his expression was anything but polished. Frederick dismounted with a quiet humility, his fingers brushing the reins. "Sir Roland, I—" Sir Roland didn’t look at him. Instead, he turned to Thunder, his voice rough with something like amusement. "You’re late, boy." The stallion snorted, his ears twitching. "And you’re bringing a boy who looks like he’s never held a sword before." Frederick’s stomach twisted. "I—I’ve been trained in the basics, Sir Roland. I just… I need to prove myself." Sir Roland finally turned, his gaze sharp. "Prove yourself? You’ve got three days to learn how to ride like a man, not a boy. And if you can’t? Well…" He didn’t finish the thought, but Frederick knew the implication. The weight of the challenge pressed down on him. Thunder shifted uncomfortably, his muscles tense. Frederick reached down, giving him a gentle pat. "We’ll get through this, Thunder. Together." Sir Roland’s eyes flicked to Frederick, then back to Thunder. "Together? You’re the one who needs to learn how to ride like a man." He turned, his voice firm. "Now get inside before I change my mind and send you back to your village." </nc-section>