Run: 2026-10-08-01M4DYPTH3YY2XF9ASPMB5MS57

<nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: Sir Roland's Welcome (Version 1)" data-color="red"> The stable boy had barely taken Thunder's reins before a broad-shouldered figure strode out from the shadow of the barn. He wore dented plate armor that had clearly seen many seasons, and a grey beard framed a face weathered by sun and battle. "You must be Frederick," he said, his voice rumbling like distant thunder. "I am Sir Roland. You rode in faster than I expected, lad. Either you are eager, or you are fleeing something." He grinned, clapped me hard on the shoulder, and nodded toward the training yard. "Either way, you will find no rest here until you have earned it." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: Sir Roland's Welcome (Version 2)" data-color="green"> Near the stables, a tall knight was brushing down a chestnut mare with slow, patient strokes. He turned as I dismounted, and I saw that his armor was plain and well kept, its surface polished to a soft gleam. "Frederick, I presume," he said with a gentle smile. "I am Sir Roland, and I will be your first teacher. Your father's letter spoke highly of your courage, though it said little of your patience." He offered his hand. "Put Thunder in the third stall, then come and find me. We have much to discuss before the bell sounds for supper." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Chapter 1: Sir Roland's Welcome (Version 3)" data-color="blue"> I had hardly swung down from the saddle when a voice called out from beside the stables. "Ah, the new squire at last!" Sir Roland stood with arms folded, a scarred knight whose eyes missed nothing. He studied me from boots to brow, then gave a short, approving nod. "Your horse is blown and so are you, by the look of it. Rest a moment. Tomorrow you will learn that a squire's first duty is to his mount, and his second is to keep his mouth shut and his ears open. Let us see which of those you already know." </nc-section>