Chapter 757

Yarvis asked, "In Aldo, what rumors are there about Antonio Griffin succeeding the Gabella Emperor?"

Paul thought for a moment before saying, "They say the previous emperor designated Antonio as his successor, but his unwilling brother launched a rebellion. Antonio crushed the rebellion with thunderous force and finally succeeded to the throne."

In truth, he had already learned much of the truth from the wizard Derson. But one could gain clarity by listening to all sides, and what Yarvis said could corroborate Derson's account.

Yarvis nodded. "That is indeed the version known to the public."

"The version known to the public?"

"Actually..." Yarvis explained, "the previous emperor, Bartley Griffin, had yet to decide on his successor. Antonio was the one who truly launched the rebellion. Of course, his older brother Felix Griffin was indeed inferior to Antonio in every respect. I supported Antonio back then, and even contributed to his bid for the throne."

"All right. This sort of thing is quite common throughout history." Paul put on an expression as if he were hearing it for the first time. "Since a wise and learned man like you supported Antonio Griffin, he must have enjoyed great prestige in Gabella. If His Majesty Bartley had announced him as his successor earlier, instead of leaving an extremely coveted position unsettled, perhaps his later years could have been more peaceful."

Yarvis wore a regretful expression. "Antonio was indeed outstanding. He excelled in both civil administration and military affairs. At least in the eyes of those of us from Scholar's Tower, he was the person best suited to rule the empire. Unfortunately..."

"Unfortunately?"

"There was a problem with his birth." An inexplicable look flashed across Yarvis's face. "In Gabella, there is a widely circulated claim—that Antonio was born to a Witch."

"A child born