THE WANING STRENGTH OF EMPIRES

Across the vast and sprawling territories of once mighty empires, a pervasive sense of unease has taken root. The foundations that for centuries upheld their authority 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.

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