Run: 2026-07-01-01KWE9ZGFNRPNCMQRXYMPJBVMZ

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Welcome (Version 1)" data-color="red"> Thunder's hooves clattered against the cobblestones as I slowed him to a trot, guiding him toward the stables. A tall figure emerged from the shadows of the stable doors, clad in polished armor that caught the last rays of sunlight. His weathered face broke into a warm smile as he approached. "You must be young Frederick," he said, his voice deep and steady as a mountain. "I am Sir Roland. I've been expecting you." I dismounted quickly, nearly stumbling in my haste to show proper respect. "Sir Roland, it's an honor, sir." "The honor will come later, boy, once you've earned it." He clasped a firm hand on my shoulder, his grip strong from decades of swordwork. "For now, let's get that horse of yours settled. You've had a long journey, and tomorrow your training begins in earnest." There was something in his eyes—a flicker of memory, perhaps, of when he himself had been a nervous squire arriving at these very gates. </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Welcome (Version 2)" data-color="green"> As Thunder slowed to a walk near the stables, I noticed a knight leaning against the wooden fence, watching my approach with keen interest. His armor bore the scars of countless battles, dented and scratched but meticulously maintained. A long scar ran across his left cheek, disappearing into a neatly trimmed beard. "That's quite an entrance," he called out, pushing himself off the fence. "Sir Roland, at your service. And you'd be the new squire everyone's been talking about." "Frederick, sir," I replied, sliding off my horse and bowing awkwardly. Sir Roland chuckled, the sound rough like gravel. "No need for such formality with me, lad. Save that for the King's court." He circled Thunder appraisingly. "Fine horse. You'll need to prove yourself worthy of such a steed." He extended a calloused hand, and I shook it, feeling the strength in his grip. "Come, let's get you settled. I have a feeling you and I are going to spend a great deal of time together in the coming months." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 2: A Knight's Welcome (Version 3)" data-color="blue"> The stable boy took Thunder's reins as I dismounted, my legs stiff from the long ride. It was then that I heard footsteps approaching—measured, confident, the gait of someone accustomed to command. "Frederick, I presume?" I turned to find a knight studying me with sharp, assessing eyes. Unlike the ceremonial armor I'd imagined knights wearing, his was practical and worn, clearly built for function rather than show. A sword hung at his hip, its hilt smooth from years of use. "Yes, sir. Frederick of Thornwood." "Sir Roland," he introduced himself with a curt nod. "I'll be overseeing your training." He looked me up and down, and I fought the urge to straighten under his scrutiny. "You're smaller than the last squire we had. Let's hope you're quicker." Before I could respond, he turned on his heel. "Well, don't just stand there gawking. The stables need mucking, and then we'll see what you know about holding a sword. The kingdom won't wait for you to find your footing, boy—best you find it quickly." I hurried after him, my heart pounding with a mixture of nervousness and anticipation. My training as a knight had begun. </nc-section>