Archduke Karl froze where he stood.
When he had set out for Wallachia, His Majesty the Emperor had told him that Russia's willingness to tie down Prussia for three months had all been the result of Queen of France's mediation.
He had been half-convinced, half-doubtful at the time, but now, seeing this M1722 ammunition, he knew it was all true.
It must have been his dear aunt, making meticulous preparations so Austria could escape the humiliation of the heathens—
First providing loans to support Austria's military expenditures, then urging Russia to threaten the border and delay Prussia's offensive in Silesia. And now, she must have worried that he would be racing back and forth across Austria's north and south, with logistical supplies difficult to guarantee, so she had handed a large quantity of M1722 ammunition to the Ottomans, allowing him to use the enemy's own ammunition.
Archduke Karl knew that the words, "Marie Antoinette sincerely wishes you well," had definitely not been written for the Ottomans.
First, she had used her real name rather than "Queen of France," which was commonly used through diplomatic channels.
Second, the passage had been written in Latin, the "official language" of the Catholic Church. It was clearly meant for Austrians, who were also Catholics.
Warmth surged through Archduke Karl's chest. He immediately made the sign of the cross over his breast and said solemnly, "May Saint Mary forever bless my dear aunt."
Of course, all of this had actually been planned by Joseph.
And using his mother's name could both prevent Austria from becoming wary and earn her a favor.
The battles that followed held no further suspense.
With ample ammunition, Archduke Karl launched his attack early the next morning.
He even obtained more than a dozen cannon from the Ottomans—also produced in Weindorf,