Run: 2026-02-20-01KHYAPNGXH57P3PVTHGZA36T6

Okay, here are three alternate prose sections continuing the story, each with a different color designation and slightly different tone, as requested. Each features Sir Roland greeting Frederick near the stables. **Version 1 (red): Focused on Roland's sternness and Frederick's nervousness.** <nc-section data-title="A Knight's Gaze" data-color="red"> As Thunder was being seen to by a stable boy, a figure emerged from the shadows of the stables. Tall and imposing, clad in burnished steel despite the late hour, was Sir Roland, the renowned knight of Blackwood Keep. His face, weathered and scarred, held little warmth. He approached, his boots crunching on the gravel. "You must be Frederick," he stated, his voice a low rumble. It wasn't a question. I straightened, attempting to appear taller than my fifteen years. “Y-yes, Sir Roland.” His gaze swept over me, assessing, dismissive. "So, the King sends a boy. We'll see if there's any steel beneath that eagerness. Don't think polishing armor is all a knight does. My standards are… exacting." A shiver ran down my spine. This wouldn't be the glorious adventure I’d imagined. </nc-section> **Version 2 (green): Focused on Roland's weary kindness and a sense of hope.** <nc-section data-title="A Welcoming Hand" data-color="green"> Thunder whinnied softly as a stablehand took his reins, and I dismounted, stretching my legs. Just then, a man emerged from the stables, his armor gleaming faintly in the fading light. It was Sir Roland, a legend whispered about throughout the kingdom. He didn’t have the severe look I’d expected. Lines of weariness etched his face, but his eyes held a gentle kindness. He extended a calloused hand. “Welcome to Blackwood Keep, Frederick. I am Sir Roland.” I took his hand, surprised by the strength in his grip. “It’s an honor, Sir.” He gave a tired smile. “The honor is mine. The King speaks well of your… potential. Knighthood isn't just about strength and skill, boy. It’s about duty, honor, and a kind heart. We'll see if you possess those qualities.” A flicker of hope ignited within me. Perhaps this wouldn’t be so daunting after all. </nc-section> **Version 3 (blue): Focused on a mysterious atmosphere and Roland's controlled demeanor.** <nc-section data-title="Shadows and Steel" data-color="blue"> The scent of hay and horse sweat hung heavy in the air as Thunder was led away to the stables. As I turned, a figure materialized from the deep shadows within. Sir Roland. He moved with an unnerving grace for a man so heavily armored, his presence radiating an aura of quiet power. He stood before me, his visor obscuring his features. “Frederick,” he said, his voice a modulated tone that seemed to carry on the breeze. “You have arrived. The King believes you show promise.” He didn’t smile, didn’t frown. His expression was unreadable. "Blackwood Keep is a place of secrets, young squire. You will learn much here, but you will speak little. Observe, learn, and be discreet. Your training begins at dawn." A strange feeling settled over me – a sense that I’d entered a world far older and more complex than I’d ever imagined. </nc-section>