After the emperor’s election, the Habsburg lands should be united. This could lead to the rise or rebirth of a great empire, which in turn disrupts the political balance. The situation becomes highly unfavorable for France, the Ottoman Empire, and Sweden. However, declaring war is risky, especially since the convergence of these countries’ interests doesn’t necessarily mean a lasting alliance. It’s much safer to incite unrest and cause the Habsburg subjects to turn on each other.

Agitators are already roaming Vienna, questioning the emperor’s right to the title of Archduke of Austria (which is hereditary, and from a formal standpoint, election as emperor doesn’t automatically grant it). They also frighten ordinary people with the consequences of Charles II’s reign. The financial problems in the Habsburg state have already led to numerous uprisings, and the religious tensions cannot be ignored. However, the planted agents exaggerate all these issues and concoct wild stories—all to set Austria ablaze.

Will the envoys manage to leave Vienna in time? Are these events connected to the death of Massimo Piccolomini? Will his daughter unravel the mystery with the enigmatic Athanasius Kircher? Will the conflict escalate into a pan-European war? And if it does, which side will England take?