Empress Season 2 Ending Explained: What Happens to Franz After Going to Battle?
Franz Chooses the Battlefield
Austria’s conflict with the Kingdom of Piedmont intensifies after months of rebellion in Lombardy-Venetia. With violence continuing, Franz declares war, unaware that Napoleon III is helping Piedmont prepare to challenge Austrian power.
The Austrian army suffers thousands of deaths and many serious injuries. Though Franz has long favored peace, the losses push him to join his soldiers and take command at the front. His empathy for those dying in the conflict drives the decision.
Napoleon Backs Piedmont
Napoleon had earlier declined Maximilian’s request for French help in calming unrest in the Italian-speaking territories. He had his own ambitions: weakening Austria could allow France to become the leading power in the region.
Napoleon agreed to send French troops to the border if Austria attacked Piedmont first. France had more soldiers and weapons, and its forces helped Piedmont win the war, strengthening Napoleon’s position in Europe.
Maximilian’s Role at Court
After his failed attempt to take the throne, Maximilian was exiled rather than executed. Franz later recalled him to court and sent him as an envoy to Napoleon, where Maximilian met and fell in love with Princess Marie of Belgium.
Franz approved their marriage and appointed Maximilian Austrian Viceroy of Lombardy-Venetia, hoping he could improve relations with its people. Maximilian made progress, but Franz’s handling of the conflict put that work at risk.
Key points
- Franz goes to the front after Austrian forces suffer heavy losses.
- Napoleon III supports Piedmont, helping it defeat Austria.
- Franz had appointed Maximilian Viceroy to improve relations in Lombardy-Venetia.
- The war threatens Maximilian’s efforts to win over the region’s people.