Run: 2026-10-13-01M4TBVJD2V2DH0GY8W4NTQVKY

<nc-section data-title="Version 1: A Formal Welcome" data-color="red"> Frederick had barely swung down from Thunder's saddle by the stables, his boots sinking into the straw and soft earth, when a tall figure in polished steel strode toward him. "You must be Frederick," the knight said, extending a gauntleted hand with a warm, steady smile. "I am Sir Roland, master of arms here at the castle. We've been expecting you." Frederick hastily wiped his dusty hand on his tunic and shook it. "It's an honor, sir." "The honor is ours, lad," Sir Roland replied, giving Thunder an approving pat. "A fine horse, and you ride him well. Come — let the stablehands see to him. You must be weary from the road, and your training begins at dawn." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 2: A Gruff Test" data-color="green"> The stable yard was thick with the smell of hay and horses when Frederick led Thunder into a stall. He was fumbling with the saddle strap when a broad shadow fell across him. "You're late, squire." Frederick turned to find a scarred, broad-shouldered knight watching him with arms crossed — Sir Roland, by the crest upon his breastplate. "The road was—" Frederick began. "The road doesn't care for excuses, and neither do dragons," Sir Roland cut in, though his eyes glinted with amusement. He tossed Frederick a brush. "See to your horse first. A knight who won't care for his mount won't last a week under me. Then find food and sleep. Tomorrow, we see what you're made of." </nc-section> <nc-section data-title="Version 3: A Quiet Warning" data-color="blue"> Dusk had settled over the stable yard, and Frederick was alone with Thunder when he heard bootsteps on the cobbles behind him. "You rode in fast, Frederick," said a low voice. "As if something were chasing you." He spun around. A knight in a dark blue cloak stood in the lantern light, his hand resting lightly on his sword hilt. "Sir Roland?" Frederick asked. The knight nodded, his expression turning grave as he glanced toward the darkening hills beyond the castle walls. "Welcome to the castle. Keep your horse rested and your eyes open while you're here. Strange things have been stirring in the north of late — and I fear your training may need to become real far sooner than any of us would like." </nc-section>