Run: 2026-06-01-01KT1HKNRWT7AMNE9RCKT1Z8MF

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Welcome" data-color="red"> As I dismounted near the stables, a broad-shouldered man in worn leather armor approached with measured steps. His weathered face bore the scars of countless battles, yet his eyes held a surprising warmth. "You must be Frederick," he said, extending a calloused hand. "I am Sir Roland. I've been expecting you." His grip was firm, almost crushing, but his smile was genuine. "Word of your arrival reached us days ago. Come, let us see if you have the makings of a true knight, or merely the dreams of one." Thunder snorted beside me, as if sensing the gravity of the moment. Sir Roland chuckled, patting the stallion's neck with practiced ease. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: The Old Warrior" data-color="green"> The stables smelled of hay and horseflesh as I led Thunder toward an empty stall. A gruff voice stopped me in my tracks. "Mind how you handle that beast, boy." A tall figure emerged from the shadows, his silver hair catching the last rays of sunlight. This was no ordinary stablehand—the bearing of a seasoned knight was unmistakable. "I am Sir Roland, and I've trained more squires than you've seen summers." He circled me slowly, appraising my stance, my build, the calluses on my hands. "Hmph. Soft. But there's fire in your eyes, I'll grant you that." He turned away, beckoning over his shoulder. "Tend to your horse, then follow me. Your training begins at dawn, and I show no mercy to those who arrive late." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: An Unexpected Greeting" data-color="blue"> I had barely tied Thunder's reins to the post when a hearty laugh echoed across the courtyard. "Ha! Another lamb sent to the slaughter!" The man who approached was younger than I expected, perhaps in his thirties, with a quick grin and laughing eyes. He wore the silver sigil of a knight upon his breast. "Sir Roland, at your service—though after a few weeks of my training, you may curse the day we met." He clapped me on the shoulder with such force that I nearly stumbled. "Don't look so frightened, lad! I was a green squire once myself. Tell me your name, and let's get you settled before the cook stops serving supper. Trust me, you'll need your strength." Despite my nerves, I found myself smiling. Perhaps this place would not be so daunting after all. </nc-section>