Run: 2026-07-07-01KWZ4WJTT8PZX81X98ZQV0MK9

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: A Gruff Welcome" data-color="red"> As Frederick dismounted Thunder near the weathered stables, a tall figure emerged from the shadows. Sir Roland, the local knight, stood with arms crossed, his armor clanking softly with each breath. His face was weathered by countless battles, and a jagged scar ran from his left eye to his jaw. "So you're the new squire," Sir Roland said, his voice rough like gravel scraping against stone. He looked Frederick up and down with critical eyes. "You don't look like much. Can you even hold a sword properly, boy?" Frederick swallowed hard but stood tall. "I've trained with my father since I was old enough to walk, sir. I won't disappoint you." A harsh laugh escaped Sir Roland's lips. "We'll see about that. Many have made such promises. Few have kept them." He grabbed Frederick's shoulder with a grip like iron. "Your training begins at dawn. Be ready, or don't bother showing up at all. I have no time for weaklings who can't commit." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: A Warm Welcome" data-color="green"> As Frederick dismounted Thunder near the weathered stables, a tall figure emerged from the shadows with a broad smile. Sir Roland, the local knight, approached with an easy stride, his well-maintained armor gleaming in the fading sunlight. Despite his imposing stature, his eyes sparkled with warmth. "Frederick! You made it," Sir Roland exclaimed, clasping the young squire's hand in both of his. "I've heard promising things about you from your father. He speaks highly of your dedication and spirit." Frederick felt a wave of relief wash over him. "Thank you, Sir Roland. I've looked forward to this moment for as long as I can remember." "Good! That's exactly the attitude we need here," Sir Roland replied, gesturing toward the castle. "You'll find that training is demanding, but rewarding. We're like a family here, and we look out for one another. Come, let me show you to your quarters, and then we'll get you something to eat. You must be exhausted from your journey." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: An Ominous Welcome" data-color="blue"> As Frederick dismounted Thunder near the weathered stables, a tall figure emerged from the shadows. Sir Roland, the local knight, appeared almost ghostly in the dim light, his dark armor absorbing what little sunlight remained. His eyes, pale and piercing, seemed to look through Frederick rather than at him. "Frederick," Sir Roland said quietly, his voice barely above a whisper. "You've arrived at an... interesting time." Frederick felt a chill run down his spine. "Interesting, sir?" Sir Roland glanced over his shoulder as if expecting someone—or something—to be watching. "There are things happening in this kingdom that few understand. Dragons, young squire, are not merely creatures of legend." He paused, letting the words hang heavy in the air. "The chronicles speak of one last dragon, and its awakening draws near." Frederick's heart pounded in his chest. "Why tell me this now?" Sir Roland's lips curved into an enigmatic smile. "Because fate brought you here. Because your training will be unlike any other. Because whether you're ready or not, your role in what's coming has already been decided." </nc-section>