Emperor Franz was very much aware that this empire was beyond salvation; with any shock, it could crumble at any moment.
Thus, he had no choice but to confide in Rudolph, which also amounted to admitting his governance failures over the years. However, to reach Franz's position and sustain this ancient empire for so many years was no easy feat.
Upon hearing Franz's disclosure, Rudolph was filled with melancholy. He consoled him, saying, "Father, there is no need to be overly pessimistic; we still have the foundations of the Habsburg, and with our preparations over the years, as long as we withstand these hardest times, the empire will certainly stabilize in the future."
The Habsburg Family was naturally aware of the predicament they faced, so they took many measures, although the results were not significant.
The only consolation was that they expanded the German circle, which at least ensured a considerable increase in supporters of the Habsburgs in Venice and Dalmatia.
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