A DECLINE IN IMPERIAL POWER

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

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 ravenous swarm of warriors seeking riches. Their longships, like beasts of the north, sliced through the waters, their standards fluttering in the wind. A city once peaceful now trembled benea