Metternich's hand, holding the teacup, froze in midair. "What gave you that idea?"
Following the Regent's "script," Segur said, "Once the war is over, someone must be held accountable for the wreckage strewn everywhere.
"Now that the Kobzl brothers have both gone to the United Kingdom, among the more influential figures in the Cabinet at the time, you are undoubtedly the most suitable one to be pushed out.
"For example, they might say that it was precisely because your reform measures were flawed that Vienna's people were provoked, leading to the outbreak of the riots."
"This is pure slander!" Metternich said only that much before falling silent in a daze.
His reforms abolishing the Guilds and tax farming had indeed displeased many people. Count Waltherhausen would very likely make an issue of it.
Furthermore, the failed intervention in the Swiss Civil War had also been an important cause of the riots, and sending troops to Switzerland had been his proposal in the first place.
Count Segur glanced at him. "You have given so much to the empire. It is time for you to serve as State Minister."
The implication was clear: once he became State Minister, he could in turn deal with Count Waltherhausen's faction.
Yet Metternich appeared somewhat desolate. "You are right. I mean, perhaps I should go to the United Kingdom for a holiday as well."
"I can hardly believe you are giving up so easily."
"Count Waltherhausen holds great influence at court. His Majesty the Emperor also relies heavily on him now. I have no chance at all."
Count Segur lifted his teacup and said unhurriedly, "What if Bohemia, Slovakia, Transylvania, and even the Serbian Parliament all support your appointment as State Minister?"
"I fear that is merely wishful thinking on your part."
Count Segur smiled. "No.