THE CRUMBLING PILLARS

Across the vast and sprawling domains of once mighty empires, a pervasive sense of unease has taken root. The cornerstones that for centuries supported their authority are showing undeniable signs of fracture. Rebellions erupt in remote provinces, discontent festers among the populace, and once-loyal vassals begin to doubt the emperor's right to ru

The year the year of our Lord eight hundred and forty-five AD. A chill wind whistled across the Seine River, carrying with it the scent of salt and fear. The Norsemen had arrived, a stormy swarm of warriors seeking glory. Their longships, like beasts of the north, sliced through the waters, their flags billowing in the wind. A city once proud now t