 Faced with the growing threat of northern invaders, the local nobles again rejected the succession of Charles the Simple because he was too young, and Odo, Count of Paris (member of the Robertian dynasty) was chosen as the new King of West Francia, after successfully defending Paris against the Vikings, led by Rollo.In 893, aided by Archbishop Fulk of Reims, Charles the Simple attempted to reclaim the throne, but in vain.By 897, the young prince ruled only the city of Laon before Odo on his deathbed designated him as his successor.