Of course, Joseph had arranged the order of these reports on purpose.
He had invited the senior officials of Bavaria, Württemberg, the Earl of Wiltz, and the other states to attend a meeting today, and had made them "happen" to arrive just as Berthier was reporting the military situation to him, precisely so he could use a string of military victories to raise their confidence and make them continue increasing their troop commitments. Yes, by now it had already become France summoning a group of allied states to "gang up on" England, Austria, and Russia.
Aside from Prussia, the states of the North German Confederation had already sent more than thirty-five thousand troops.
That did not even include Hesse, which had just finished fighting a Civil War. If Hesse entered the war, it could send at least another fifteen thousand soldiers.
Joseph smiled and gestured for Theodor and the others to drink their tea, then instructed Berthier without the slightest attempt at concealment, "Order General Massena to begin a full assault on Passau tomorrow morning, in coordination with the Surt Legion."
"Yes, Your Highness."
Theodor immediately said to Joseph, "Your Highness, I hope the Dernberg Corps can be allowed to participate in this attack."
The war was clearly nearing its end. If they did not fish up a little battle merit now, they would have no voice when the spoils of victory were divided later. Joseph gladly agreed. "Then let us witness the bravery of the Bavarian soldiers. Tomorrow, your army and Prussia's Tauentzien Corps will be responsible for operations on the south side of the Danube River."
Karl Eugen immediately followed by saying loudly, "Your Highness, I will personally lead my army in joining the offensive against Passau!"
The Earl of Wiltz also rose to his feet. "Your Highness,