A DECLINE IN IMPERIAL POWER

Across the vast and sprawling territories of once mighty empires, a pervasive sense of unease has taken root. The cornerstones that for centuries supported their authority are showing undeniable signs of decay. Rebellions flare in distant provinces, dissatisfaction festers among the populace, and once-loyal vassals begin to doubt the emperor's mand

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 of salt and fear. The Norsemen had arrived, a stormy swarm of warriors seeking glory. Their longships, like beasts of the north, sliced through the waters, their flags fluttering in the wind. A city once confident