THE CRUMBLING PILLARS

Across the vast and sprawling domains of once mighty empires, a pervasive sense of unease has taken hold. The cornerstones that for centuries supported their rule are showing undeniable signs of fracture. Rebellions erupt in distant provinces, dissatisfaction festers among the populace, and once-loyal vassals begin to doubt the emperor's legitimacy

The year 845 AD. A chill wind swept across the Seine River, carrying with it the scent emanating from salt and fear. The Norsemen had arrived, a ravenous swarm of warriors seeking riches. Their longships, like wolves, sliced through the waters, their standards waving in the wind. A city once peaceful now trembled beneath the menace of Ragnarök. Pa