Chapter 1052: 960 Everything Suddenly Became Smooth

Chapter 1052: Chapter 960 Everything Suddenly Became Smooth

Archduke Karl was momentarily stunned.

When he traveled to Wallachia, His Majesty the Emperor had told him that the reason Russia agreed to hold Prussia in check for three months was all thanks to Queen of France’s mediation.

At that time, he was skeptical, but now seeing these M1722 munitions, he realized it was all true.

It was certainly his dear aunt who, in order for Austria to avoid humiliation by the infidels, had made thorough preparations—

First providing loans to support Austria’s military expenses, then prompting Russia to threaten the border to delay Prussia’s offensive in Silesia.

And now, she should be worried about the logistical challenges as he raided back and forth between northern and southern Austria, so she handed over a large amount of M1722 to the Ottomans for him to utilize the enemy’s ammunition.

Archduke Karl knew that the phrase “Marie Antoinette sincerely blesses you” was definitely not written for the Ottomans.

She had used her real name rather than the diplomatic channel title “Queen of France”.

Furthermore, this expression was in Latin, which is the “official language” of the Catholic Church, clearly meant for the Austrians, who are also Catholic.

Archduke Karl felt a warm sensation in his chest and immediately made the sign of the cross over his chest, earnestly saying, “May Holy Mother Mary forever bless my dear aunt.”

Of course, all of this was actually Joseph’s planning.

Borrowing his mother’s name would prevent Austria from being alarmed and also give her a favor.

After that, the upcoming battle was without suspense.

With abundant ammunition, Archduke Karl launched an offensive early the next morning.

He even acquired a dozen cannons from the Ottomans—also produced by Austria’s Weindorf—further augmenting his forces.

Meanwhile, Mustafa lost the only Topizis New Army and most of the “left-handed” army, as the Yeniceri Guard was no match for European troops.

The expansive Bulgarian plain offered no defenses, so after just five days of persistence, Mustafa lost most of his forces under Archduke Karl’s onslaught.

Finally, when he escaped with only thirteen thousand of his guard south to the Stara Mountain Range, he finally shook off the brutal Austrians.

Archduke Karl immediately returned to Bucharest, leaving six thousand soldiers to surround the three thousand Topizis soldiers there, while he himself led the main force hurriedly toward Silesia.

Even though the Ottoman New Army’s fighting ability was decent, being deep in enemy territory and cut off from logistical supplies, their defeat was inevitable.

By then, it had only been less than half a month since Archduke Karl had crossed the Carpathian Mountains.

Upon reaching Silesia, he began setting up defenses, while Prussia’s main force remained far away in Konigsberg.

A week later.

Various German states successively welcomed envoys sent by His Majesty the Emperor of the Holy Roman Empire, demanding them to join the “International Maritime Agreement” organization advocated by Denmark.

Actually, prior to this, Denmark’s Regent Frederick had already visited these countries, introducing them to the concept of the “Maritime Agreement”. However, most of them expressed that it required consideration, as it might offend the British.

But now that it was an imperial decree, these small states had no psychological concerns anymore.

Everyone has offended you, Britain, you can’t just retaliate against one country, can you?

Moreover, with His Majesty the Emperor standing in front, if the British were to retaliate, they would first target Austria.

Thus, within the following month, more than thirty envoys from various states of the Holy Roman Empire went to Copenhagen, expressing willingness to sign the “International Maritime Law”.

Frederick was pleasantly surprised at how suddenly smooth things had turned out; it was an unprecedentedly brilliant diplomatic achievement in Denmark’s history.

He made some quick preparations and then headed to Paris, intending to discuss the convening of the first plenary meeting of the Maritime Agreement organization with the Crown Prince of France.

…

Southwestern border of Austria.

Klagenfurt Fortress.

Under the tall beech tree in front of the camp, two Austrian officers were chatting while clenching their pipes, but their eyes subconsciously glanced around, appearing extremely vigilant.

A Lieutenant with coarse pores and tousled hair murmured, “Are you sure? But I heard the Ottomans were defeated in less than half a month, which is completely different from the situation planned earlier…”

The tall, sharp-eyed Lieutenant opposite him nodded, “I confirmed with ‘Mr. Chef’ this morning, everything is proceeding as usual.

“Prussian troops have already started returning to Silesia. Even without the Ottomans, over seventy thousand Prussian soldiers can attract almost all of Austria’s forces.

“So, do you have any questions?”

Lieutenant exhaled and shook his head, “No more, Lieutenant Master.

“Oh, right, that artillery Company Commander named Leman Lel is demanding an increased kickback.”

“Don’t ever mention your people’s names to me,” Master frowned, “How much does he want?”

“An extra 500 florins.”

“Greedy fellows usually encounter misfortune,” Master gestured, “I’ll get you the money tomorrow morning. When our people arrive, find an opportunity to eliminate him.”

“Alright, Lieutenant Master.”

“How about the infantry?”

“Absolutely no problems,” Lieutenant reported, “Twenty florins per person, they’re even willing to kiss a sow. Also, this act is considered normal defense against enemy attack, no one will pursue their accountability.”

“Very good.”

After leaving the place, Master headed towards a town five to six kilometers away from the fortress.

Aside from the twice-weekly drills, officers from the old military of this era could freely leave the camp.

Soon enough, inside an inconspicuous tavern in town, Master instructed dozens of “gang members”: “Everyone be prepared. In about ten days or so, the Prussians will launch their attack.”

…

Paris.

In the golden conference hall of the Palace of Versailles, the newly appointed Prime Minister of France, Brian, was reporting on the government administrative reforms.

Well, the title “Prime Minister” was coined by Queen Mary. She seemed to feel that the word “Prime Minister” was unclear about the role it signifies, and also wanted to show her effort in participating in the administrative reform process.

Joseph naturally accepted it willingly.

“Selections for officials in various cabinet departments will be completed by the end of next month. The compilation of the ‘Regulations for Positions’ and ‘Assessment Standards’ is still underway due to a lack of manpower, which might require about another three months…” Brian glancing nervously at the Crown Prince, fearing his inefficiency might be criticized, he breathed a sigh of relief upon seeing no expression from him.