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

The year the year of our Lord eight hundred and forty-five AD. A chill wind whistled across the Seine River, carrying with it the scent emanating from salt and fear. The Norsemen had arrived, 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 on