The Day of Ruination

=== March 1st, 1556 was the Day of Ruination, a pivotal moment in Season 2 of Brazilian's Varna series. ===
A few days prior, Bohemia had discovered a secret alliance of Protestants in the Holy Roman Empire known as the Schmalkaldic League, and upon ordering its dissolution, Austria defended the League. At first this appeared to be an issue within the Empire, until France arrived, followed by the entire League of Verdun, including their secret member, Poland. 
"Hello, Austria. I have long awaited this fateful day. The Day of Ruination. Your ruination." - Poland
Poland then explained their involvement, since the appearance of anti-Catholic sentiment back in late 1517 in Saxony.
"The alliance was formalised, with the notable exclusion of me. All in preparation for the day when you would take a step too far. The Day of Ruination."
- Poland
But then Austria told their tale, which began with Bohemia's rebellion during the Third Lombard War, 17 years prior to the publication of the 95 Theses. Austria had made their own plan, and predicted nearly everything that followed.
And with that, the League of Verdun suddenly found themselves at war. The Kingdom of Hungary was now in a succession war against Royal Hungary, a Protestant movement which had existed underground. The Schmalkaldic League expanded into the Protestant League, to include several other Protestant nations who had declared war on the League of Verdun. Austria merged with Royal Hungary to form the Habsburg Monarchy, giving the signal to the Protestants to begin their advancements.
=== The War of the Leagues had begun. ===