Run: 2026-06-01-01KT1GKRAHPFJAY8JK16W6JSKA

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: The Knight's Welcome" data-color="red"> As Thunder slowed to a trot near the stables, a broad-shouldered figure emerged from the shadows of the doorway. Sir Roland stood tall, his weathered face creased by years of battle and sun. A scar traced a pale line across his cheek, but his eyes were kind. "You must be Frederick," he said, his voice deep and resonant. He extended a calloused hand. "I am Sir Roland. We've been expecting you. Come, let us see to your horse—a fine animal, that one. Then we shall talk of the trials that await you." I dismounted, my legs trembling from the long ride, and clasped his hand firmly. His grip nearly crushed mine, but I refused to wince. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: An Unexpected Greeting" data-color="green"> Before I could even dismount, a booming laugh echoed across the courtyard. A knight in gleaming half-armor strode toward me, his helmet tucked under one arm and a grin spread wide across his bearded face. "By the gods, look at this one!" Sir Roland bellowed, clapping a hand on Thunder's flank. "They send me boys who ride like they were born in the saddle, yet still wet behind the ears." He laughed again, then fixed me with a sudden, piercing stare. "Tell me, squire—do you know why you've truly been summoned here? Or did they keep you in the dark like all the rest?" I swallowed hard, uncertain whether he was testing me or warning me. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: The Silent Sentinel" data-color="blue"> The stables were quiet save for the soft nickering of horses. As I led Thunder inside, I noticed a man leaning against a wooden post, arms folded across his chest. He wore no armor—only a simple tunic stained with mud and oil—yet there was an unmistakable authority in his stance. "Frederick," he said. It was not a question. Sir Roland pushed himself off the post and walked a slow circle around me, studying me as a merchant might appraise a horse. "You arrived later than expected. The roads, I assume?" Before I could answer, he nodded to himself. "No matter. You're here now. But understand this, boy—the castle is not what it appears to be. Keep your eyes open and your mouth shut, and you may yet survive your training." A chill ran down my spine that had nothing to do with the evening air. </nc-section>