Duke Leopold, who had not returned after his battle against von Holstein, was now entering the Council Chambers again bearing a smug grin on his face.

Gentlemen!

I am joyful to announce that my campaign against the Venetians in our lands was successful! I just defeated the Venetian Heir Councillor Bartolomeo in battle. His troops have fled the field and those we were able to capture have been put to the sword. This shall serve as another example that every Venetian oath-breaker daring to cross into our realm has nullified his existence and will meet his end at the hands of an Austrian sword!!

Leopold too raises a mug, passed to him by a servant, in triumph

I was informed what has transpired here since I left and our 5th Elector raises some important points. However I believe most of your concerns have also been adressed by the 6th Elector.

I agree that a two-front war does not suit us well, that's why I have taken action to improve our cooperation with the House of Franconia that will help us defend against the Polish. This cooperation is not limited to defense however and while any action against the Polish will be commanded by a Franconian, they will be fought by brave Austrians!

It is important however that we delegate this theater of war, as we do not have enough able generals that could command our armies in the field. If I were to go north on an extended campaign against Poland, Vienna would be undefended in the meantime. You have seen how easy it is for the Venetians to attack us here in our very heart. We have to deal with this thread first, before we can cast our eyes elsewhere. An offensive campaign against Venice is imperative to give us a buffer against their attacks.

I hope these reasons make my decisions clear to you. Although we disagree on the importance of Italian against Polish lands, these are strategic considerations that you can not deny.


OOC:
Just like to throw this in just in case it hasn't become clear through my IC text. Any battle without an avatar as general will be autocalced. Vienna would fall quickly to a sizeable enemy force if we have to autocalc it so it is important that Leopold remains close to Vienna.