Knights of the Digital World

"Deadly Flying Hammer!"

Faced with the incoming Thor's hammer, Emu dared not take it head-on and quickly dodged. While Hellfire suppressed the opponent, Emu seized the opportunity and used the "High-Speed" energy item.

In his battle against the Dark Beast, Emu had improved significantly and was no longer as reckless as before, rushing headlong into energy items without any preparation. Unlike Kamen Rider ARA-DX, he didn't possess the ability to manipulate energy items; he had to find them slowly on his own. This time was enough for his opponents to react. The Dark Beast, for example, thoroughly thrashed him. Therefore, Emu wouldn't consider using energy items unless he had his opponents firmly under control.

With the speed buff, Emu moved incredibly fast and quickly arrived in front of Zudomon. Taking advantage of Zudomon's inability to see clearly due to its shell, Emu raised its Gashan Breaker and slammed it into Zudomon's ankle.

However, Emu underestimated Zudomon's senses. Zudomon took a step to the side, dodging Emu's attack, and then slammed its carapace down towards Emu. The heavy carapace tore through the air with a ferocious "whoosh" sound.

Emu quickly dodged. However, the impact of the shell hitting the beach still made him stagger, and the splashing sand landed on him, making Emu somewhat disheveled.

Zudomon recalled its Mjolnir and unleashed its ultimate attack: "Mjolnir Spark!"

The shockwave and sparks from Thor's hammer struck towards Emu. Emu's escape route was blocked by Zudomon's shell, leaving him with nowhere to hide.

"The Gates of Hell!"

Emu used another of Salubimon's signature moves, summoning numerous black holes leading to the Dark Realm. He then jumped into one of them, avoiding Zudomon's finishing move. Afterward, he jumped out again through a black hole that opened on his carapace.

Emu didn't like using the Hell Gate skill. Firstly, it wasn't very useful against Darkmon, who was far more familiar with the Dark Realm than Emu. Secondly, the boss of this world, Lucemon, was sealed at the center of the Dark Realm. Emu really didn't want to inadvertently get involved with Lucemon.

However, in retrospect, using Hell Gate as a short-range movement skill is not bad.

Zudomon picked up its shell, put it back on its back, and said with some approval, "Your strength is quite good; you were able to dodge my attack. But that's not enough to defeat me."

Chapter Twenty-One, The New Cartridge

Emu shook his hand, feeling that things were getting a bit tricky.

In terms of strength, Zudomon and Salubimon are actually quite similar. However, Zudomon's size gives it a significant advantage. Its towering stature and immense power prevented Emu from directly confronting its attacks. Therefore, Emu appeared somewhat disheveled.

"Don't jump to conclusions too quickly, Zudomon," Emu replied, launching another attack.

This time, Emu abandoned a direct attack and instead circled around Zudomon, occasionally unleashing a burst of hellfire.

At this point, Zudomon's size became a disadvantage. Its large and strong body couldn't keep up with Emu's speed boost. Zudomon could only passively defend, constantly on guard against Emu's attacks.

Emu was quite satisfied with the current situation. As the saying goes, prolonged defense inevitably leads to defeat; in this passive defensive posture, Zudomon would expend a great deal of energy and eventually wouldn't be able to hold on. That would be her time to strike!

Emu's scheme was shrewd, but Zudomon was no fool. He too was a powerful Digimon who had endured countless arduous battles to reach the Ultimate level. He saw through Emu's plan immediately. After a few probing defenses and realizing it wasn't easy, Zudomon quickly changed his strategy.

"Heavy hammer sparks!"

Zudomon slammed its Mjolnir down fiercely. And it didn't just do it once, but frantically struck more than ten times. The shockwaves and flames from the attack spread outwards, engulfing Zudomon's body.

Emu hadn't expected Zudomon to be so decisive. This attack had also drained Zudomon's energy significantly. Zudomon, however, was simply using it to pressure Emu and force itself out of a potential predicament.

This is the issue of combat experience that Darkmon has been mentioning. These battle-hardened Ultimate-level Digimon can make accurate judgments and weigh gains and losses in a short time. Afterwards, they act decisively and without hesitation. In contrast, although Emu has been fighting fiercely with Darkmon for the past few days, the combat experience she has accumulated is still insufficient, and some of her experience is too specific to Darkmon and cannot be fully applied in the battle.

Perhaps this is also the purpose of Darkmon bringing Emu to challenge different Digimon.

Emu was blasted away by the shockwave and flames from Zudomon, rolling several times on the ground. However, because Zudomon's main objective was to force Emu to reveal himself, all of its power was dispersed, spreading outwards in a ring shape, so Emu was not seriously injured.

As a vaccine-type, Zudomon was also a kind-hearted creature. Seeing that Emu had been beaten to the ground so soon after her speech, it didn't utter a word of mockery, but simply waited silently for Emu to get up.

Emu was grateful for Zudomon's thoughtfulness, but also felt embarrassed and ashamed. He stopped uttering any harsh words, quickly got up, and assumed a fighting stance.

"Do we still want to fight? Although your energy seems no less than mine, your combat experience is far inferior. It's strange. Logically speaking, those with our level of energy should have evolved through life-or-death battles. Their combat experience shouldn't be this poor." Zudomon was somewhat puzzled.

Emu was somewhat unsure how to answer. Gaining the power of Ex-Aid was indeed a meteoric rise, easily acquiring power comparable to a Perfected being. However, this meteoric rise also meant that his foundation wasn't as solid as those Perfected beings who climbed the ladder step by step.

Previously, when facing Salammon, Emu was defeated by him and Venusaur before Salammon could even demonstrate its rich experience, simply because of Salammon's strange abilities and its own fragility. However, when facing the tough and resilient Zudomon, Emu couldn't inflict as many serious damage as he had on Salammon, which gave Zudomon room to maneuver and highlighted the importance of combat experience.

"Let's continue! It's precisely because I lack combat experience that this is a good opportunity for me to learn! Please, Zudomon!" Emu said sincerely.

“Alright, since that’s your expectation…” Zudomon seemed quite indifferent to it.

It must be said that most Digimon are truly simple-minded. Zudomon's energy was already less than half full, and continuing to fight Emu would most likely deplete his energy. At that point, if Darkmon wanted to attack him, he would be like a fish on a chopping board, powerless to fight back.

However, just because Emu had said that Darkmon was a good person, Zudomon actually trusted them and wasn't very wary of them.

"There's no need to continue fighting. You don't have the strength to defeat him yet. Your experience is also terrible. Hmph, what a disgrace!" The Dark Beast suddenly spoke up, stopping the two from fighting, and said to Yongmeng with great dissatisfaction.

Darkmon walked up to Zudomon, his voice lowering as if he wanted to soften it—but he failed.

"Thank you for teaching my worthless student. If we continue fighting, he won't gain much experience. With his current abilities, he's no match for you. However, if possible, could you please teach my student some hammer techniques?"

"Oh? Oh! It's nothing, no problem." Zudomon readily agreed.

"Then I'll leave it to you. I'll keep an eye on things and make sure no one disturbs you." Darkmon said, turning and walking away. This was both a precaution and a way of letting Zudomon know that he wouldn't steal the techniques.

“You said before that your master was a good person, and I didn’t quite believe it. Now, I do believe it.” Zudon scratched his head and said to Yongmeng.

Yongmeng did not reply, but felt even more grateful to the Dark Beast.

"Alright, let me teach you some hammer techniques... Hammer techniques, actually, aren't anything particularly profound..." Zudomon began demonstrating its hammer techniques to Emu. Due to its size and strength, Zudomon's hammer techniques weren't particularly flashy; it relied on brute force to overwhelm opponents. However, Zudomon's hammer techniques weren't just random hammering; it had its own unique routines. For example, it could use flying hammers against distant enemies, heavy hammers against close-range enemies, and other methods to control the rhythm of its attacks.

Zudomon also demonstrated several of its signature moves to Emu: Hammer Spark, Deadly Flying Hammer, Nail Puller Hammer, Thor's Hammer, Hammerhead Attack, and so on.

Emu was very grateful for Zudomon's generous teaching and studied diligently, memorizing everything Zudomon said. He also carefully observed how Zudomon demonstrated the moves. Perhaps he couldn't replicate Zudomon's moves, but he had learned something from it, which was already a gain.

"...That's about it." Zudomon finished explaining and let out a breath.

"Thank you so much for your explanation!" Yongmeng bowed to Zudomon and thanked him loudly.

"It's nothing, nothing profound. I've almost recovered. I'll head back now." Zudomon waved its hand, not paying much attention, and sank back into the sea and disappeared.

In fact, the hammer technique that Zudomon taught him was something he gradually developed and created himself, making it extremely valuable. How many Ultimate-level Digimon are there in the Digital World? And how many of these Ultimate-level Digimon would casually pass on their best skills? Therefore, even if Zudomon himself didn't care, Emu still remembered this favor.

"Beep! Host, the new cartridge is complete." The system fragment suddenly issued a notification.

Yongmeng was taken aback. Where did this new cartridge come from? He quickly asked in his mind, "System, explain to me the function and acquisition process of the new cartridge."

"I am a fragment of the system, not the system!" The system fragment insisted on correcting Yongmeng's pronunciation before beginning its explanation.

"The new cartridge is the Zudomon cartridge. The cartridge game is a game where players take on the role of Zudomon, using various tapping techniques to attack targets and score points. After using it, you can level up and transform into a level 3 hammer-action player."

"Isn't this just whack-a-mole?!" Emu couldn't help but complain after hearing about the game on the cartridge.

Ignoring Emu's complaints, the system fragment continued, "The data for this cartridge comes from two sources. The first is data collected during the host's battle with Zudomon, which contains a large number of errors and omissions, with only about 10% usable. The second is data collected through Zudomon's active instruction, which is mostly accurate and effective, with 95% usable. Combining the above data, and through the conversion of the Infinite Cartridge, the Zudomon Cartridge was successfully created."

"Can cartridges be created by actively teaching others?" Emu asked with some surprise.

"Yes, it's possible. The cartridge requires precise data. Data acquired during battle will have a lot of errors, but digital codes can correct those errors. In addition, actively transferring abilities will also reveal precise data, which can be used to create cartridges," the system fragment affirmed.

"Speaking of which... the Ten Warriors Gacha seems to have mentioned that the improvement process includes sharing resources, right? Does that mean actively teaching others? Or is this another method? This is a bit of a headache... However, it wouldn't be bad to find a new way to manufacture Gacha..." Emu deactivated his transformation, looking at the Zudomon Gacha displayed in his hand, his mind wandering aimlessly.

"Who gave you permission to deactivate your transformation?"

Sensing Zudomon's departure, Darkmon returned. Upon arriving, it found Emu standing there dumbfounded and immediately began to berate him: "You're a disgrace! You were beaten so badly you couldn't even fight back! And you dare call yourself my student! Now you even dare to deactivate your transformation without permission? Looks like I'll have to teach you a lesson!"

"Eh? No! Master, please stop!" Yongmeng's face was contorted with pain as he watched the approaching Dark Beast shout, "Yamete!"

……………………………………………………………………………………………………

At that moment, the children who had just helped Junpei obtain the Soul of the Lightning Warrior suddenly trembled, as if they had heard Emu's scream. Their gazes hardened with unwavering resolve, and they silently vowed, "Wait for us, Emu! We will definitely rescue you!"

Chapter 22, Steel Warrior Silver Mirror Beast

"Heavy hammer sparks!"

Gashan slammed heavily into the ground, sending flames and shockwaves soaring into the sky. With precise control, it struck the grayish-blue Digimon that resembled a stag beetle.

Daigomon let out a scream and fell from the sky, digital codes appearing on its body.

Opposite to the Giant Gugamon, a pink humanoid with a single, jagged horn on its head and its joints covered by a hard carapace slowly straightened up and put away the Gashan Destroyer in its hand.

Emu skillfully pulled out his Infinity Gacha, pressed the DigiCode key lightly, and the DigiCode, drawn by the pressure, trembled slightly before obediently flowing into the Gacha. A flash of gray light appeared on the Gacha's surface, revealing the appearance of Daikogamon, before returning to its original blank state. The remaining data of Daikogamon then transformed into DigiEggs and floated away.

"Not bad. Looks like this month of training wasn't a waste." Dark Beast slowly walked behind Yongmeng and nodded with a hint of approval.

Yongmeng chuckled and said to the Dark Beast, "Master, you taught me so well. Hehe."

"Stop joking. You can deactivate your transformation and rest for a bit. We still have to find our next opponent later." Dark Beast waved his hand dismissively, seemingly unconcerned about Emu's boasting, and went to rest to the side.

Emu deactivated his transformation and, without being too picky, simply sat down on the ground, completely relaxing.

A month had passed, and he and the Dark Beast had been wandering around, challenging the strong opponents chosen by the Dark Beast. Most of these strong opponents were at their complete form, while some were seasoned and experienced mature warriors. In addition, daily battles with the Dark Beast were essential, and there had even been a few extra battles.

Through such frequent and intense battles, Emu has mastered his various forms: Action Player Lv2, Fighting Action Player Lv3, and Hammering Action Player Lv3. Hammering Action Player Lv3 is particularly impressive. Thanks to Zudomon's complete instruction, Emu is intimately familiar with Zudomon's hammer techniques and even his signature moves, greatly shortening the adaptation time to Hammering Action Player Lv3 and allowing him to unleash even greater power.

During this month of battles, Emu did not only encounter powerful yet peaceful Vaccine-type Ultimate forms like Zudomon; he also encountered many ferocious Virus-types.

These virus-type Digimon aren't as easy to talk to as Zudomon, who generously shares his combat skills. Their only thought is to kill the enemy before them, attacking without mercy and emphasizing ferocity. In fact, many times, even if Emu doesn't seek them out, they'll attack on their own. Daigogamon was an example of this.

It was precisely because of such opponents that Emu faced life-or-death crises multiple times. This was unlike sparring with Darkmon, where although one might be brought to the brink of death, as long as the Digicode remained intact, one would be safe. These Virus-type Digimon, if they brought their opponent to the brink of death, would absorb the opponent's Digicode in the instant before strengthening themselves.

Dark Beast had told Emu from the beginning that he wouldn't interfere in Emu's battles. If Emu died, so be it. At most, he might help Emu avenge himself, but that would depend on his mood.

Although Emu felt that Dark Beast was just being defiant, he didn't dare gamble on whether Dark Beast was joking or truly meant it. After all, his life was still in his own hands. With no way out, Emu could only fight with all his might, daring not to be careless in the slightest. It was under these circumstances that his combat experience improved rapidly.

In addition, Emu has become more skilled at making cartridges.

He discovered that the Infinite Gadgets also possessed the ability to scan digital codes. Furthermore, scanning the digital code allowed him to obtain the complete and accurate data of the Digimon, enabling him to successfully create Gadgets. The Virus-type Digimon he defeated along the way all became members of his Gadget collection. Unfortunately, these Gadgets only helped him level up to level 3 at most, offering little change from his previous Gadgets. Moreover, most of these Gadgets lacked any special abilities.

Therefore, thinking that he shouldn't try to do too much at once, Emu only transformed once to experience the new forms and didn't use the other cartridges again. He still focused on his previous three forms. However, he could practice more on the Daigogamon cartridge he obtained today to prepare for possible aerial battles.

Just as Emu was making plans in his mind, the Dark Beast suddenly flashed to his side, grabbed Emu's collar, casually dug a large hole, and stuffed Emu into it.

"Lie down inside and don't speak," the dark beast instructed, releasing wisps of black mist that obscured the large pit.

The dark beast drew out its own blood to evolve, and wildly unleashed sword energy in all directions, striking a pose as if it were training.

"Oh my, as expected of Dark Beast. Never forgetting to train. Truly worthy of being the strongest among us." Just as Emu was wondering about Dark Beast's intentions, a neutral voice, indistinguishable between male and female, rang out.

The Dark Beast stopped what it was doing and calmly asked, "Silver Mirror Beast, what are you doing here?"

Having his identity revealed by the Dark Beast, the newcomer no longer concealed himself and appeared before the Dark Beast.

This is a green Digimon. Its head is a pointed horn, and where it should have a face, there are no facial features, only a smooth mirror with a fiery red lip print representing its mouth. It wears two mirror-like shields on its arms, and walks with a touch of aristocratic poise.

This is none other than the strategist among the evil warriors, the steel warrior, Silver Mirror Beast!

The Silver Mirror Beast chuckled at the Dark Beast, "Dark Beast, we're colleagues, after all. Is it strange that I came to see you?"

The Dark Beast withdrew its blood evolution, crossed its arms, and said coldly, "Enough with the nonsense. We're not that close. Just say what you need to say! I still need to find a powerful expert!"

Silver Mirror Beast was used to Dark Beast's cold attitude, and even Dark Beast's words were within his expectations. When they first met, Dark Beast had fought a fierce battle against all of them, completely overwhelming the Water and Earth warriors. The Wood warrior wasn't very bright, but he was incredibly strong. Although he ultimately lost to Dark Beast, he left a deep impression on Dark Beast.

As for the Silver Mirror Beast, it fought the Dark Beast to a standstill, even gaining a slight advantage. Because of this, the Dark Beast treated the Silver Mirror Beast with considerable respect.

After that great battle, Darkmon began wandering the Digital World alone, stating that he was going to seek out stronger opponents to challenge. Out of respect for his strength, and given the generally laid-back nature of the evil warriors, the other warriors had no objections and let Darkmon roam freely. This is why Darkmon would wander around and encounter Emu and the others.

"Dark Beast, I know you're looking for a powerful being. Now, I'm here to tell you about one." Silver Mirror Beast, who knew Dark Beast's personality, chuckled.

"Oh? Tell me about it." The dark beast's interest was piqued, and it pressed for details.

"Those are the same ten warriors as us. However, they were all transformed from human brats. Let me think, there's Flamedramon, Lightwolfmon, IceBearmon, WindAngemon, and Thunderboommon. Among them, the Flame-type warriors and Light-type warriors also obtained their Beast Warrior Souls, I remember it was... Flamedramon and LightSilverwolfmon. Grodonmon was defeated by them and had its Warrior Soul stolen," SilverMirrormon said.