THE WANING STRENGTH OF EMPIRES

Across the vast and sprawling domains of once mighty empires, a pervasive sense of unease has taken grip. The pillars that for centuries supported their dominion are showing undeniable signs of fracture. Rebellions erupt in previously 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