With time running out, Su had failed to find another plan. Cementing his resolve, Kevin swore he would do anything to defeat the Honkai. No matter the cost—he would pay it.

And so, he stood alone. Su had argued the project would kill nearly everyone in the area—but to defeat the Honkai, to save what was left of humanity—wasn't it worth it?

The first of his experiments: the contaminated drinking water of Burton.

He would repeat this experiment in another village and witness the results himself. With the limited resources currently at his disposal, he had already released several weak Seraph-Class Honkai Beasts into it.

Kevin's stride was slow, teeming with a quiet sort of confidence. Not overwhelming, but unmistakably powerful. He had observed the village for quite some time, from afar. Now closer to the edge of it, he inhaled sharply.

The air had not yet been tainted. The breeze was refreshing—he had spent the last few days tampering with Honkai radiation. Ironically, he was in his MANTIS form. Kevin's body temperature had dropped to -30°C.

He couldn't be near humans in this state, for it would prove fatal. It would be a waste, when their lives could've proved useful in his experiment, if only for data. He would avoid proximity with civilians. Pressing his tongue to the roof of his mouth, he tilted his head back slowly. Parting his lips, he exhaled—a steady sigh that emerged as a pale puff. He watched the materialized vapor absentmindedly, deep in thought.

The outside was quiet. It was peaceful, but it would not last. Who in this village would survive the “test”? Who could emerge stronger, able to fight the very Honkai that had drawn out their strength?

He was searching for the river he had located prior. The water flowing from it was steady and clear, a natural source which spread to the entire village. It was nearby, he was sure of that. He'd need only taint it, and his "trial" would begin. The MANTIS did not believe many would prevail, thus with the death of many humans, those who rose above would have to work hard to prove that their sacrifices had not been in vain.

A pause. Kevin’s footsteps stilled, white strands of hair fluttering in the wind. He felt as though he could sense something familiar. A presence he'd once been very familiar with. His eyes widened nearly imperceptibly—a flicker of recognition stirred in his irises.

You?