Run: 2026-09-03-01M1M02Q0455R9NR81GZ3D9W38

<nc-section data-title="Version 1: The Knight's First Test" data-color="red"> Near the stables, Frederick pulled Thunder’s reins as the horse snorted at the sight of a rider leaning against the wooden posts. A knight in dented armor looked up, his face hard beneath a battered helm. “So,” the knight said, “the castle has taken in another boy who thinks he can tame steel.” Frederick stepped down and bowed, trying to keep his voice steady. “I mean no disrespect, sir.” The knight raised an eyebrow. “Good. Disrespect is easier to cut out of a squire than fear.” He extended a gloved hand. “Sir Roland. If you survive the first month, I’ll tell you which of us is luckier.” </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: The Stable-Side Welcome" data-color="green"> As Frederick tied Thunder to the stable rail, a low laugh came from behind a row of saddles. A broad-shouldered knight emerged, wiping hay from his cloak and smiling like the place had been expecting him all along. “New arrival?” the knight asked, taking Frederick’s hands and shaking them firmly. “Name’s Roland. Local knight, local trouble, and the one they send to find out why the horses won’t sleep.” Frederick grinned despite himself. “The castle looked large enough to hide its own problems, sir.” Roland laughed again. “It does. But so does a squire with good eyes.” He pointed a thumb toward the training yard. “You’ll need both here.” </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: The Warning in the Shadows" data-color="blue"> By the stables, the lantern light flickered, and Frederick sensed a presence before he saw one. Sir Roland stood half in shadow, his armor scarred and his expression unreadable. “Frederick,” the knight said, his voice low. “Some come here seeking glory. You came here seeking something else.” Frederick met his gaze. “I didn’t come for glory, sir.” “No,” Roland replied, glancing briefly toward the dark gate beyond the yard. “You came for the dragon.” For a moment, the air between them seemed to still, as if the castle itself held its breath. Then Roland turned away. “Be careful, squire. Not every door in this place was opened for you.” </nc-section>