THE CRUMBLING PILLARS

Across the vast and sprawling territories of once mighty empires, a pervasive sense of unease has taken hold. The cornerstones that for centuries supported their dominion are showing undeniable signs of decay. Rebellions erupt in distant provinces, resentment festers among the populace, and once-loyal vassals begin to challenge the emperor's right

One sunny/bright/clear afternoon in the late 1580s/1590, a small colony/115 settlers/a group of adventurers on Roanoke Island vanished without a trace/clue/whisper. This event, known as the Lost Colony of Roanoke, has haunted/baffled/puzzled historians and amateur sleuths/investigators/enthusiaists for centuries/generations/decades. Despite/In spit