Jerry's worries weighed on him like a massive boulder. His thoughts constantly drifted to Kellie, the girl who had saved his life. Their shared memories darted through his mind like flashes of lightning. But every time he inquired about her with the military, he got the same answer: Kellie was undergoing special training and couldn't see anyone at the moment.

"Special training?" Jerry murmured, filled with doubt and confusion. But he realized that in his current situation, he had no choice but to trust. Thus, he decided that the first thing he needed to do was to become stronger. In this chaotic world, only the powerful have a say. Only the strong can protect themselves and their loved ones.

Every day, Jerry rigorously trained at the base. Whether it was physical workouts or firearm practice, he left no stone unturned. Even though he was only a D-level super-powered individual, the resources and attention the base provided him were more than adequate. In just two weeks, his progress was staggering, and his shooting accuracy reached an elite level.

On a sunny morning, Tom approached Jerry, adjusting his glasses. "Congratulations, Jerry," he said, "You've graduated. You can now participate in actual combat."

Jerry's heart raced, not with fear but anticipation. However, he made another discovery. The meat of the hunted animals, provided by the base, didn't give him any superpower transformations. He even tried eating raw meat in secrecy, but to no avail.

"Am I not eating enough?" he pondered aloud. "Or is it because I didn't participate in killing those beasts, so I can't acquire their powers?" Jerry carried these heavy questions, but he knew that answers often lay hidden in the unknown adventures ahead.

Soon after, Jerry's first assignment arrived. He had to deliver an urgent letter to another base. Considering the current situation, driving was deemed too slow, so the military decided that Jerry would run the message personally.

"Are you ready?" Tom asked.

Taking a deep breath, Jerry nodded, "I'm ready."

This was Jerry's first mission, marking his true initiation as a warrior in this post-apocalyptic world.

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Jerry raced ahead as fast as he could, following the map with a single thought in his mind: to deliver the letter as quickly as possible. However, as he darted through a small forest, a violent tremor broke the silence. Before him, two massive figures were tearing into each other.

One was a colossal phoenix, its fiery red feathers seemed to scorch everything in its path. With each flap of its wings, it descended from the sky, leaving a trail of raging fire. The other was a gigantic eight-headed serpent, each head spewing bright red venom while its body was as sturdy as steel.

These creatures were legendary ancient beasts, possessing extraordinary powers. Jerry hid behind a large tree, watching their every move, sensing a golden opportunity. If he could assist one, like Kellie had before, perhaps he could gain some of the creature's powers.

The phoenix's flames blazed like the sun, sending rockets of fire towards the serpent whenever it lunged. The serpent, however, dodged artfully, its eight heads slicing the air like sharp blades, spewing choking green venom whenever the phoenix got close.

Watching the epic battle between these mythical creatures, Jerry was awestruck. Though the phoenix seemed noble and pure, Jerry noticed its aggressive and dominant nature. It cackled shrilly with each blow it delivered, taking evident pleasure in overpowering its opponent.

In contrast, the serpent, despite appearing more menacing, seemed to be acting in self-defense. It tried to dodge the flames but was repeatedly struck, letting out agonized roars. Jerry realized that the serpent did not want this fight; it merely sought to defend itself against the instigating phoenix.

Torn between choices but sensing the rare opportunity, Jerry aimed his gun, planning to ambush the phoenix at the crucial moment.

Just as the serpent was about to be engulfed in flames, Jerry took a shot at the soft underbelly of the phoenix's wing. The bullet, swift as lightning, struck its mark. Though it didn't inflict any real harm, it clearly disrupted the phoenix's rhythm. Seizing the chance, the serpent spewed its venom and launched a fierce counterattack, eventually bringing down the fiery bird.

The phoenix's screams pierced the air, but soon they faded, replaced by the victorious roars of the serpent.

Jerry approached the creature, his heart racing, taken aback by the sheer magnitude of this ancient being. He looked into the serpent's eyes, trying to detect a hint of emotion.

"Can you... understand me?" Jerry cautiously inquired.

One of the serpent's heads lowered slightly in acknowledgment. Then it spoke, "Human, why did you aid me instead of the phoenix during that pivotal moment?"

Jerry pondered for a moment, replying, "The phoenix's flames and its arrogance concerned me. You appeared more balanced despite your power. But honestly... I was taking a risk, hoping to gain some strength from the phoenix."

The serpent, its tail gently swaying, seemed to reflect on his words. "I cannot guarantee what power you might gain from the phoenix, but I owe you a favor. Here is some flesh from the phoenix. Perhaps it will be of use to you."

With that, one of the serpent's mouths regurgitated a piece of meat shimmering with a strange glow. Jerry hesitated briefly but, recognizing the value of the gift, gratefully accepted it.

"Thank you," he said, trying to convey his gratitude through his eyes.

The serpent replied, "In this unpredictable world, mutual aid between man and beast might be more significant. I hope this piece of meat brings you what you seek."

Jerry nodded, storing the meat carefully, and resumed his journey. There was still a long road ahead, but each adventure and lesson brought him closer to his goal.