THE CRUMBLING PILLARS

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

The year eight hundred forty-five AD. A chill wind blasted across the Seine River, carrying with it the scent emanating from salt and fear. The Norsemen had arrived, a stormy swarm of warriors seeking glory. Their longships, like serpents, sliced through the waters, their flags billowing in the wind. A city once peaceful now trembled beneath the th