THE CRUMBLING PILLARS

Across the vast and sprawling territories of once mighty empires, a pervasive sense of unease has taken grip. The foundations that for centuries sustained their rule are showing undeniable signs of fracture. Rebellions flare in distant provinces, resentment festers among the populace, and once-loyal vassals begin to question the emperor's right to

The year 845 AD. A chill wind blasted across the Seine River, carrying with it the scent of salt and fear. The Norsemen had arrived, a ravenous swarm of warriors seeking riches. Their longships, like prowling predators, sliced through the waters, their banners waving in the wind. A city once confident now trembled beneath the threat of the coming s