Run: 2026-07-01-01KWE9NKQH54FV4TGG7X0W7MGY

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Welcome" data-color="red"> Thunder's hooves clattered against the cobblestones as I drew near the stables, and a broad-shouldered figure stepped from the shadows to meet me. Sir Roland's armor caught the last light of the dying sun, each dent and scratch a testament to battles I could only imagine. "You must be the squire from Millhaven," he said, his voice rough as gravel but not unkind. "I am Sir Roland. I've been expecting you." I slid down from my saddle, my legs unsteady after the long ride, and offered a clumsy bow. "Frederick, sir. I'm honored to serve." Sir Roland's weathered face broke into a faint smile as he clasped my shoulder with a hand like iron. "Honored, are you? We'll see if you still feel that way after mucking out the stables and running drills before dawn. Come, let's get Thunder settled. The castle has a way of testing every young man who walks through its gates." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Welcome" data-color="green"> As Thunder slowed to a trot near the stable entrance, a tall knight emerged, his silver armor gleaming faintly even in the fading light. He carried himself with the quiet confidence of a man who had seen far more than his years should allow. "Easy there," the knight called out, moving to steady Thunder's reins as I dismounted. "That's a fine horse you have. Strong legs, good temperament. He'll serve you well." "Thank you, sir," I replied, brushing dust from my travel-worn cloak. "I'm Frederick. I was told to report here for my squire training." "Sir Roland," he said, extending a hand in greeting. "I'll be overseeing your instruction, among other things." His eyes studied me for a moment, not unkindly, but with the careful assessment of someone measuring the weight of a new blade. "You've traveled far. Rest tonight. Tomorrow, we begin in earnest. The path to knighthood is not an easy one, but I suspect you already know that." He turned toward the stables, gesturing for me to follow. "Come. Let's get you and your horse settled before the frost sets in." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Welcome" data-color="blue"> The stable door creaked open just as I approached, and out stepped a knight whose reputation, I would soon learn, preceded him everywhere he went. Sir Roland was not a large man, but there was something in his stance—a stillness, a readiness—that spoke of quiet, unshakeable strength. "You're later than I expected," he said, though there was no real reproach in his tone. "The roads from Millhaven can be treacherous this time of year. I'm glad you arrived safely." I swung down from Thunder, my muscles aching from the journey. "Sir Roland? I wasn't sure who would be meeting me." "Word travels fast in a castle this size," he said with a faint chuckle, taking Thunder's reins from my hands. "I make it a point to greet every new squire myself. It tells me a great deal about a person, how they handle a long journey and a stranger's welcome." He led Thunder toward an open stall, glancing back at me over his shoulder. "You did well to arrive before nightfall. Not every squire manages that on their first attempt. Perhaps there's promise in you yet, Frederick." I felt a flicker of pride at his words, quickly followed by nervous anticipation of what tomorrow might bring. </nc-section>