THE CRUMBLING PILLARS

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

The year the year of our Lord eight hundred and forty-five AD. A chill wind blasted across the Seine River, carrying with it the scent emanating from salt and fear. The Norsemen were amongst us, a ravenous swarm of warriors seeking glory. Their longships, like serpents, sliced through the waters, their standards fluttering in the wind. A city once