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Chapter One: Dynastic Disaster

April 1826

Francis I, Emperor of Austria and one of the most powerful men in the world, slumped back into his chair. It seemed that no matter how much power one had, none was immune to the hand of death. "Say that again, Metternich"

The Prime Minister was standing close by, in an emptied room, so there was no chance the Emperor had misheard. But Metternich obeyed without question. "I fear the news has been confirmed. The epidemic in Parma has claimed the life of your daughter, the Duchess of Parma. And Archduke Franz Karl."

Metternich did not add that, since the death of Archduke Ferdinand, Franz Karl had been the heir to the throne. In fact, the only remaining male heir. The Emperor knew his own succession, and drawing attention to it would only anger Francis.

As it was, the Emperor was already considering the succession. He was shocked and sorrowed by the loss of his children, of course. But he hadn't become a double Emperor, creating the Empire of Austria out of the ruins of his thousand year old patrimony, by letting his emotions rule him. "What am I to do now?"

Metternich winced at the plaintive request, misunderstanding the reason. "I've already ordered the return of the bodies here. They should arrive--"

"No," the Emperor declared. "My throne, Klement! My sons are all dead. Your constant repression of dissent has left the country too short on money to fight another succession war!"

Metternich wasn't about to point out that the Emperor had gladly approved those crack downs, given his current mood. "I believe that given the current laws, the next in line is your nephew Leopold."

Francis looked even more downtrodden at the idea that none of his descendants would follow him.

And then he remembered. "No. The next in line is my grandson." A small relieved smile appeared on the Emperor's face.

Metternich was momentarily confused. Then his face crinkled in displeasure. "Your majesty, you don't mean the Duke of Reichstadt."

"Of course."

"Sir, with the laws the way they are-" Metternich began.

"The laws only disqualify female heirs" Francis declared. "Not their descendants."

Metternich wasn't sure that was accurate, though he knew his judgement was skewed by the fact that he neither liked, nor trusted, Napoleon Bonaparte's spawn. Either way, it was not a likely way to convince the Emperor to abandon his plan.

"You look doubtful, Metternich."

The Prime Minister was alarmed at being called out. There were other concerns though, and now seemed the time to address them. "A second Bonaparte Emperor is going to cause a great deal of alarm among the other Great Powers."

The Emperor nodded. "True. France can be talked around; especially if he formally gives up claim to the French throne."

"Prussia will no doubt be the last hold out, " Metternich noted.

Francis glowered at the thought. "Let them. They can look to Silesia if they want to know why their opinion isn't wanted."

Metternich considered the remaining powers. Britain was unlikely to get involved either way, and the Ottomans were no longer able to project their power into European affairs. Russia was theoretically a friendly nation, but who could say if it would stay that way.

But apparently he'd ruminated too long, as the Emperor was now satisfied the discussion was over. "Have Franz sent for, Klement. And have the papers drawn up for me to proclaim him an Archduke. And heir to the Empire."

So it seemed that like it or not, Metternich would have to get used to it. "As you command, Majesty."
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