Chapter 22: Chapter 22: Project Stabilization

    "Your Highness, you have a clue? What do you mean? Was someone really behind it?" Klein asked in confusion.

    Arthur hesitated, carefully choosing his words. He couldn''t afford to reveal too much, especially about his transmigration. After a brief pause, he spoke cautiously, "I don''t have a definite answer yet. This is just a guess, and I might be wrong."

    Klein''s confusion deepened, but he stayed silent as Arthur continued. "I believe I might have an ability—something that cancels out magic. That could explain why the fireball disappeared when it came toward me."

    "But it''s only a theory, and I need to test it to be certain. That''s where you come in. I need you to find a mage—a strong one you trust implicitly—who can help with this, but it must remain absolutely confidential. Also, I want this mage to become my personal guard starting today. Take your time selecting someone who fits these criteria."

    Klein blinked, trying to process the idea. "Cancel magic? I''ve never heard of anything like that. How would that even work?"

    Arthur took a deep breath before answering, "As I understand it, if a magical attack is directed at me, I might be able to nullify it entirely. But again, this is just my hypothesis. I haven''t tested it yet, which is why I need your help."

    Klein nodded slowly, though skepticism lingered in his expression. "If that''s true, then what about everyday magic? For instance, when maids use spells to summon water for cooking or cleaning, would their magic fail around you? Or can you control which magic you cancel?"No?v(el)B\\jnn

    Arthur frowned thoughtfully. "That''s something I''ll need to figure out. Like I said, it''s just a theory for now. I haven''t experienced enough to say for sure. That''s why testing this ability is so important. I trust you to find someone who''s strong, discreet, and willing to take on the role of my bodyguard."

    Klein straightened and gave a firm nod. "Understood, Your Majesty. I''ll find someone suitable—someone who can be trusted to keep this a secret. I already have a few candidates in mind, but I''ll make sure to vet them thoroughly before presenting them to you. Expect an answer by tomorrow."

    Arthur nodded, a small smile of gratitude on his lips. "Thank you, Klein. I trust your judgment."

    With that, Klein bowed and left the room, leaving Arthur alone in his chamber. Arthur leaned back in his chair, staring at the intricate patterns on the ceiling as his thoughts swirled.

    With that thought, Arthur buried himself in plans, pouring over strategies and ideas for the rest of the day. The hours passed quickly, and before he realized it, a knock came at the door. It was the valet, informing him that dinner was ready.

    Arthur glanced at the clock—it was already 6:30 PM. Stretching his stiff limbs, he rose from his chair, leaving the library behind.

    After eating dinner, Arthur retired for the night, his mind already turning over plans for the days ahead.

    ...

    In a narrow alleyway,

    Two figures, clad in black attire that shrouded their bodies, stood facing each other. Only the lower halves of their faces were visible. One of them asked in a hushed tone "Didn''t you claim to have successfully assassinated King Arthur Jr.? Then why is he still alive—and why are there reports of him turning over a new leaf, even punishing a noble for abusing his power?"

    The other figure stiffened but responded evenly. "I did assassinate him. That day, I drove ice magic straight into his heart. I have no idea how he survived. Perhaps someone is impersonating him."

    The taller figure cut in, voice cold and unwavering. "I don''t care about your excuses. What I do know is that our lord is furious. You''ve been given one last chance to complete the mission properly. And let me make this clear—if you fail again, it won''t just be the mission that''s terminated. Your life will be forfeit as well."

    A tense silence hung between them before the second figure nodded. "I won''t fail this time. Whether it''s the real King Arthur Jr. or someone disguised as him, I''ll ensure he''s dead."

    "Good." With that, the taller figure turned and disappeared into the shadows, leaving an air of menace in their wake.

    Left alone, the remaining figure''s lips curled into a sinister smile. She muttered under her breath, "I don''t know who you really are, but I will make sure to kill you in the most painful death."