Run: 2026-09-03-01M1KRFM28MM0S4VNP82FERF8C

<nc-section data-title="Meeting Sir Roland - A Stern Welcome" data-color="red"> As I reined Thunder in near the courtyard stables, the heavy thud of iron-shod boots echoed across the cobblestones. Sir Roland emerged from the shadows of the archway, his scarred face impassive under the fading twilight. He crossed his arms over a breastplate marked by countless skirmishes, studying me with a critical, unblinking gaze. "You ride hard, boy, but haste won't save you if you can't hold a blade," Roland said, his voice like grinding stone. He caught Thunder's reins in one gauntleted hand, testing my balance before offering a curt nod. "Dismount. The stable hands will tend your beast. Your trial begins before sunrise." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Meeting Sir Roland - A Warm Greeting" data-color="green"> Slowing Thunder to a gentle trot by the fragrant warmth of the straw-filled stables, I was met by a booming laugh that cut right through my travel weariness. Sir Roland strode forward with open arms, a broad grin parting his thick, graying beard. "Frederick! By the heavens, look at you—you’ve grown nearly a head since I last saw you in the valley!" The veteran knight clapped a heavy, reassuring hand onto my shoulder and gave Thunder an affectionate pat on the muzzle. "Come, get yourself out of the saddle. There is hot stew in the mess hall and plenty of time to turn you into a knight tomorrow." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Meeting Sir Roland - An Ominous Introduction" data-color="blue"> I drew to a halt beside the stable entrance, where the lingering scent of smoke mingled oddly with sweet hay. Leaning against a weathered wooden post stood Sir Roland, his cape billowing gently in the evening draft. He wasn't looking at me, but up toward the jagged mountain peaks looming beyond the castle battlements. "You feel that chill in the air, Frederick?" Roland murmured, turning his pale, haunted eyes toward me as I slipped from the saddle. He stepped forward, lowering his voice so only I could hear. "The dragons haven't truly slept in a hundred years, lad, and the skies are growing restless. I hope your heart is stronger than your sword-arm, for both will be tested soon." </nc-section>