Run: 2026-05-31-01KSYXK9QSW221DRQDMPXXYQZQ

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Welcome" data-color="red"> As I dismounted near the stables, a broad-shouldered figure emerged from the shadows of the hayloft. Sir Roland, his armor dulled by years of honest service, regarded me with steel-grey eyes that had seen a hundred battles. "So you're the new squire," he said, his voice gravelly as crushed stone. He crossed his arms over his scarred breastplate. "I've trained better men than you and buried half of them. Tell me, boy—are you here to learn, or to die a hero's death?" I swallowed hard, gripping Thunder's reins. There was no warmth in his greeting, only the cold weight of expectation. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Welcome" data-color="green"> I had barely tied Thunder to the post when a hearty laugh boomed across the courtyard. Sir Roland strode toward me, a giant of a man with a russet beard and a smile that crinkled the corners of his eyes. "Frederick! By the gods, you've your father's look about you!" He clasped my forearm in a grip that nearly buckled my knees. "Come, come—you must be famished after your ride. The cook's prepared a stew that would make a king weep, and I'll not have my new squire fainting before his first lesson." His warmth was infectious, and despite my nerves, I found myself grinning back at him. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Welcome" data-color="blue"> The stables smelled of fresh hay and leather as I led Thunder inside. A man knelt in the far stall, gently brushing a chestnut mare, speaking to her in low, soothing tones. "You ride well," he said without turning. "I watched you cross the eastern field. Few squires understand that a horse is a partner, not a tool." He rose slowly, and I saw the quiet dignity in his weathered face. "I am Sir Roland. And you must be Frederick." He extended a calloused hand, his gaze thoughtful and measuring. "We have much to discuss, you and I. But first—let us see your horse properly settled. A knight tends to his mount before himself. Remember that." </nc-section>