At present, Prussia had fully integrated into France's metallurgical system. Though it used the previous generation of technology, it could still crush the entire German Territories.
In less than a year, Prussian steel products had captured more than half the North German market. Even Austria had begun smuggling in Prussian steel.
In recent years, the North German states had launched railway projects one after another. Prussia was raking it in simply by selling Iron Rail, and the national treasury had finally caught its breath.
Of course, the French Company exporting coal to Prussia was making a handsome profit as well.
But for Austria, this was bad news.
Once war truly broke out with Bavaria and Württemberg, Prussia would undoubtedly loot a burning house.
Franz II blurted out, "Should we have the Russians help deal with Bavaria?"
Metternich and Stadion immediately lowered their heads, lest the Emperor see the way they were looking at him as though he were a fool.
If Austria brought the Russian Army into Western Europe, it would instantly become the common enemy of all Europe.
Seeing the two men remain silent, Franz II knew he had made a foolish mistake and hurriedly changed the subject. "Ahem, so should we take a step back first?"
Metternich was very pleased that His Majesty the Emperor was so willing to listen. After helping him analyze the current situation in Germany, he and Stadion left the Emperor's study with relieved hearts.
At noon the next day, the Emperor's new diplomatic instructions were delivered to Metternich's desk.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs casually opened the document. After reading only a few lines, his face turned livid—the Emperor wanted him to send someone to Bavaria to explain the matter of the O'Reilly Legion. At the same time, Austria would no longer pursue