Run: 2026-07-01-01KWEA45QJJKHZAD9SXD8VNECV

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: The Arrival (cont.)" data-color="red"> As Thunder's hooves clattered onto the cobblestones near the stables, a broad-shouldered figure stepped out from the shadows of the wooden beams. His armor bore the dents and scratches of countless battles, and a long scar ran across his weathered cheek. "You must be the new squire," the man said, his voice gruff but not unkind. "I am Sir Roland. Dismount, boy, and let's see if you're made of anything worthwhile." Frederick swung down from the saddle, his legs stiff from the long ride. He straightened his back, trying to appear taller than his years. "Frederick, sir. I've come to begin my training." Sir Roland's sharp eyes swept over him, assessing. "We'll see about that soon enough. The stables won't muck themselves, and neither will your future." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: The Arrival (cont.)" data-color="green"> A warm chuckle greeted Frederick before he even reached the stable doors. Sir Roland emerged, wiping hay from his hands, a genuine smile spreading across his sun-worn face. "Ah, so you're the young lad from the letters! Word travels fast in these halls—everyone's been curious about the new squire." He extended a calloused hand, and Frederick shook it eagerly. "It's an honor, Sir Roland. I've heard tales of your victories since I was a boy." "Tales tend to grow taller with each telling," Roland said with a wink, patting Thunder's neck affectionately. "Come, let's get your horse settled. There's a warm meal waiting, and plenty of time for stories later. Training can wait until morning—you look like you could use some rest." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: The Arrival (cont.)" data-color="blue"> The stable lanterns flickered as Frederick approached, casting long shadows across the straw-covered ground. A tall figure leaned against the wooden fence, arms crossed, watching him with an unreadable expression. "You made good time," the man said finally. "I am Sir Roland. I trust your journey was uneventful?" There was something guarded in his tone, a weight behind his words that Frederick couldn't quite place. "It was quiet, sir. Perhaps too quiet." Roland's eyes narrowed slightly, and he glanced toward the darkening horizon beyond the castle walls. "Quiet doesn't always mean safe, boy. Come inside—we have much to discuss before your training begins. The kingdom is not as peaceful as it appears from the road." </nc-section>