Buried

Khan understood it very well, or at least, he tried to.

Khan believed the leader was telling the truth, hinting at its species' unique qualities. Those lifeforms probably had the ability to transform according to external inputs. They had done it with the Nak's mutations and could seamlessly fuse with the ground. Chances were Khan could really help them.

However, it was clear the process would hurt Khan, if not kill him entirely. He would even allow that in some circumstances, but Chuwei's creatures fell short of the most crucial requirement.

Finding the Nak wasn't the end. A terrifying threat loomed over the universe, demanding someone strong enough to fend it off. Khan couldn't leave that task to others, especially when they were far weaker than him. After all, he had many people to save.

"[Potential heir]," Khan's copy called. "[We have fought and suffered for too long. Far too long]."