THE CRUMBLING PILLARS

Across the vast and sprawling landscapes of once mighty empires, a pervasive sense of unease has taken hold. The pillars that for centuries sustained their dominion are showing undeniable signs of fracture. Rebellions flare in distant provinces, discontent festers among the populace, and once-loyal vassals begin to question the emperor's legitimacy

The year 845 AD. A chill wind blasted across the Seine River, carrying with it the scent emanating from salt and fear. The Norsemen had arrived, a horde swarm of warriors seeking plunder. Their longships, like beasts of the north, sliced through the waters, their banners fluttering in the wind. A city once peaceful now trembled beneath the threat o