Run: 2026-05-29-01KSSJG002TJK0BEEX6TX501EG

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: The Welcome" data-color="red"> As I dismounted near the stables, a broad-shouldered man strode toward me, his armor catching the dying light. Sir Roland, the kingdom's most renowned knight, extended a calloused hand. "You must be Frederick," he said, his voice deep and weathered. "We've been expecting you. Word of your father's valor reached us long before you did." I clasped his hand, feeling the strength of a hundred battles in his grip. "It's an honor, Sir Roland." "The honor is yet to be earned, lad," he replied with a knowing smile. "But every great knight begins exactly where you stand now—covered in road dust and full of dreams." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: The Stable Encounter" data-color="green"> The stables smelled of hay and leather as I led Thunder inside. A shadow fell across the doorway, and I turned to find a tall figure leaning against the wooden frame, arms crossed. "A fine animal," the man observed, nodding toward Thunder. "Though a fine horse does not make a fine rider." He pushed off the frame and approached. "I am Sir Roland. And you, I presume, are the squire I've been tasked with shaping into something useful." There was a gruffness to him, but his eyes held a glint of amusement. I bowed my head respectfully. "Frederick, my lord. I'm ready to learn." "We shall see about that," he said, circling me like a hawk assessing prey. "Readiness is easily claimed. Proven? That is another matter entirely." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Greeting" data-color="blue"> I had barely begun to unsaddle Thunder when a warm laugh echoed through the stables. An older knight approached, silver threading through his beard, his eyes crinkling with genuine welcome. "Ah, the new blood arrives at last!" he exclaimed, clapping me firmly on the shoulder. "I am Sir Roland. Forgive the lack of ceremony—I find a stable a far better place to take the measure of a man than any throne room." His easy manner put me instantly at ease. "Frederick, sir. I've traveled three days to reach you." "Three days of saddle sores, no doubt," he chuckled. "Come, leave your steed to the grooms. There's stew by the fire and a warm bed waiting. Your training begins at dawn, and trust me, lad—you'll want your strength." </nc-section>