Run: 2026-02-25-01KJBG7PCQ37C4XDJAADT0ERSZ

<nc-section data-title="The Iron Welcome" data-color="red"> As Frederick guided Thunder into the cool shadow of the courtyard, the creak of heavy leather and the clink of steel echoed against the stone. From the darkness of the open stable doors, a figure emerged. Sir Roland was a mountain of a man, clad in plate that gleamed like fresh blood under the dying light. He stopped before the young squire, his gauntleted hand resting on the pommel of his sword. "A long ride for a boy whose bones are still soft," Roland rumbled, his voice like grinding stones. He did not smile, yet Frederick saw the nod of approval as he took Thunder's reins. "You have the courage of your blood, but here, that counts for nothing. Follow me." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="The Stableyard Greeting" data-color="green"> Frederick slid from Thunder's back, his boots crunching on the gravel as the horses' heavy breaths mingled with the scent of hay. Near the water trough, a broad-shouldered man watched him approach. Sir Roland stepped forward, his tunic the color of moss, softening the harshness of the stone around them. "Easy, boy," Roland said, his voice warm as the earth after rain. He patted the stallion's neck with a gentleness that belied his strength. "Thunder respects you already. Good omen for a squire's first night." He offered Frederick a canteen, his eyes crinkling with a promise that this place would not be as unforgiving as the road. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Twilight's Duty" data-color="blue"> The last light of day faded into a deep indigo as Frederick tethered Thunder to the post. Just then, a shadow detached itself from the wooden rafters overhead. Sir Roland descended silently, a lantern in his hand casting a pale circle on the ground. "You are late, young one," he stated, though his tone lacked anger, filled only with the weariness of the night shift. He inspected Frederick's gear with a critical eye, the lantern light catching the steel of his breastplate. "The dragons do not sleep, and neither should you. Keep pace, squire. Tomorrow, the real work begins." </nc-section>