THE CRUMBLING PILLARS

Across the vast and sprawling landscapes of once mighty empires, a pervasive sense of unease has taken root. The cornerstones that for centuries sustained their rule are showing undeniable signs of corrosion. Rebellions ignite in distant provinces, discontent festers among the populace, and once-loyal vassals begin to question the emperor's mandate

The year eight hundred forty-five AD. A chill wind whistled across the Seine River, carrying with it the scent of salt and fear. The Norsemen were upon us, a stormy swarm of warriors seeking plunder. Their longships, like beasts of the north, sliced through the waters, their flags billowing in the wind. A city once confident now trembled beneath th