This time Charles blurted out, "But we always demanded that Austria not withdraw from the 'Seine-Rhine River Agreement.' Why is it different this time..."
Joseph smiled at his younger brother and said, "Because Austria used to have a huge influence over the Germanic Region. After it withdrew from the agreement, many of the Holy Roman states would have doubts about the common market.
"And now, our country's influence in Germany is even greater, and with the victory in this war, the 'Stuttgart Trade Agreement' will be very stable.
"At this time, our strategic focus should shift to how to constrain Austria, a strong enemy. Thus, restricting Austria's trade channels is the best means."
Charles's eyes sparkled, inwardly marveling at why he hadn't thought of this layer. Among Austria's neighboring countries, Bavaria, Poland, Prussia, and Venice are all France's allies, while the Ottoman Empire and Austria are old enemies.
