Run: 2026-02-20-01KHYB3VHXX1SDF6GNCJDFNRSF

Okay, here are three alternate prose sections continuing the story, following your instructions and using the specified colors. **Version 1 (red) - Focus on initial intimidation and a slightly brusque introduction.** <nc-section data-title="The Knight's Greeting" data-color="red"> The rhythmic clang of steel echoed from the stables as I dismounted, Thunder snorting a plume of vapor into the cooling air. A figure emerged from the shadows – Sir Roland, they called him. A veteran of countless battles, his face was a roadmap of scars, and his armor seemed permanently stained with the dust of distant wars. He didn't offer a smile, only a curt nod. "You're the new squire, then?" His voice was rough, like grinding stone. "Frederick? Don't expect any pleasantries. This isn't a school for boys. It's a training ground for warriors. See to Thunder, then report to the armory. And be quick about it." He vanished back into the stables, leaving me feeling a sudden chill despite the evening warmth. This was going to be more difficult than I’d imagined. </nc-section> **Version 2 (green) - Focus on Sir Roland's weary kindness and a more welcoming tone.** <nc-section data-title="A Weary Welcome" data-color="green"> As I tied Thunder to a stall, a weary sigh drifted from the shadows of the stables. Sir Roland stepped forward, his chainmail clinking softly. He was older than I'd pictured, his face etched with lines that spoke of long campaigns and sleepless nights. A genuine, though tired, smile touched his lips. “Welcome to Castle Aeridor, Frederick. You must be the new squire. It’s good to see a fresh face about the place. This work can be... demanding, but we’ll see to you. Let’s get Thunder settled, then I’ll show you the armory. Don't worry about the chores, we’ll ease you in. Just let me know if you need anything.” He gave my shoulder a brief, reassuring pat. Despite his weariness, his kindness felt like a warm hearth on a cold night. </nc-section> **Version 3 (blue) - Focus on a slightly mysterious encounter and a hint of something more.** <nc-section data-title="The Quiet Knight" data-color="blue"> The stables were filled with a hushed stillness, broken only by the soft rustling of straw. Sir Roland appeared silently, as if materializing from the dimness. His armor seemed unusually dark, almost absorbing the fading light. He regarded me with piercing grey eyes, a look that seemed to see straight through me. “Frederick,” he said, his voice low and resonant. “The castle has been waiting for you.” He didn’t elaborate, simply paused, allowing the weight of his words to hang in the air. "Attend to your horse. We have much to discuss, though not tonight. Follow me to the armory after.” He turned and walked away, his footsteps barely audible on the stone floor, leaving me with a prickling sense of unease and a growing feeling that my arrival here was far more significant than mere squiring duties. </nc-section>