Across the vast and sprawling domains of once mighty empires, a pervasive sense of unease has taken hold. The pillars that for centuries upheld their rule are showing undeniable signs of decay. Rebellions flare in remote provinces, resentment festers among the populace, and once-loyal vassals begin to doubt the emperor's right to rule. The winds of

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 were amongst us, a horde swarm of warriors seeking riches. Their longships, like prowling predators, sliced through the waters, their standards billowing in the wind. A city once peac