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DC X Rider Ch 99
🕑 Added 2024-12-30 14:11:13 +0000 UTCA few weeks have passed, and Haruka regularly defends National City during his patrols as Kamen Rider. He occasionally works with Kara when a big accident happens in the city. He and Kara are working with the DEO to find the escapees of Fort Rozz, but they haven't found any of the escapees yet. Haruka is currently working in one of his family's hotels as a desk clerk for his internship. He serves guests and is guided by the manager.
Haruka stood behind the front desk, his crisp uniform and polished name tag signifying his role as a hotel intern. Though his days were filled with mundane tasks like checking in guests and handling inquiries, he approached each interaction with the same diligence and attention to detail he applied to his duties as Kamen Rider.
As a guest approached the counter, Haruka greeted them with a warm smile. "Welcome to Kojima Hotels. How may I assist you today?" he asked, his tone professional yet friendly.
The guest, a well-dressed businessman, requested a room upgrade. Haruka tapped away at the computer, his fingers moving with practiced efficiency. "I apologize, but we are fully booked for the evening. However, I can offer you a complimentary breakfast voucher to make up for the inconvenience," he said, handing over the slip of paper.
The guest nodded, satisfied with the resolution. "Thank you. That will do nicely." He took the voucher and headed towards the elevators, his briefcase in hand.
Haruka watched him go, his gaze briefly drifting to the security monitors nearby. Despite the mundane nature of his internship tasks, he remained ever vigilant, ready to spring into action should any trouble arise in the city.
A gentle clearing of the throat drew his attention back to the desk. "Haruka, a moment of your time, please?" The hotel manager, a seasoned professional named Mr. Tanaka, stood beside him, a stack of documents in his hand.
"Of course, Mr. Tanaka. How can I be of assistance?"
"I'd like you to review these guest feedback forms and make note of any areas we can improve our services. Your fresh perspective could be invaluable," Mr. Tanaka said, handing over the papers.
Haruka accepted the documents, quickly scanning through the comments. "I'll get started on this right away," he assured the manager, already formulating ideas to enhance the guest experience.
As Haruka immersed himself in the task, his mind couldn't help but drift to his other responsibilities. He wondered if Kara had made any progress in locating the Fort Rozz escapees with the DEO. The thought of those dangerous criminals roaming free weighed heavily on him.
"Haruka, it's time for your break. Why don't you take a few minutes to relax?"
"Thank you, sir. I appreciate the opportunity."
As Haruka made his way to the employee breakroom, his colleagues greeted him warmly.
"Haruka! Come join us," one of the front desk clerks, a friendly woman named Lily, called out.
Haruka smiled and took a seat at the small table where Lily and a few others were gathered. "How's everyone doing today?" he asked, genuinely interested in his co-workers' well-being.
"Can't complain," Lily replied with a grin. "Though I'm looking forward to the weekend. You have any fun plans?"
Haruka shook his head. "Not particularly. I may just spend some time with a friend," he said, thinking of Kara.
Lily nodded, then leaned in conspiratorially. "Speaking of friends, I heard a rumor you've been getting close to that Kara Danvers girl. Is there something going on there?"
Haruka felt his cheeks warm slightly. "No, no, it's not like that. Kara and I are just good friends," he insisted.
The others chuckled, but before the conversation could continue, Haruka's phone began to ring. He glanced down at the screen and couldn't help the smile that spread across his face.
"Speak of the devil," Lily teased. "Go on, answer it."
Haruka stepped away from the group and accepted the call. "Kara, hi. How are you doing?"
"Haruka! I'm so glad you called," Kara's voice came through the line, sounding excited. "Things have been crazy here at CatCo, but I wanted to check in with you."
"I'm doing well, thanks for asking," Haruka replied. "How's your internship going?"
"It's been amazing!" Kara exclaimed. "I've actually been getting to do some real reporter work lately. You know those photos I took of Supergirl and Kamen Rider? Well, Ms. Grant was so impressed that she's been letting me do more than just fetch her coffee and run errands."
Haruka chuckled, not at all surprised that Kara had used their shared exploits to advance her career. "That's great to hear, Kara. I'm proud of you."
"Thanks, Haruka. And how about you? How's the hotel internship going?" Kara asked.
"It's been good, though a bit more mundane than your adventures," Haruka admitted. "But I'm learning a lot, and the staff has been very welcoming."
"Well, you deserve a break every now and then," Kara said. "Maybe we can grab lunch or something soon, catch up properly?"
"I'd like that," Haruka replied. "Let me know when you're free, and we'll make it happen."
"Will do! Talk to you later, Haruka," Kara said, and Haruka could hear the smile in her voice.
"Bye, Kara," Haruka responded, ending the call.
As he made his way back to the breakroom, Lily and the others looked at him expectantly.
"So, was that your girlfriend?" Lily teased.
Haruka shook his head. "Again, no, just a good friend. We were discussing our internships."
"Aw, come on, Haruka. You can't blame us for wondering," one of the other clerks, a young man named Ryu, chimed in. "You two seem pretty close."
Haruka shrugged. "Kara and I have known each other for a while. She's a good friend, that's all."
The others exchanged amused glances, but they let the subject drop, instead moving on to discussing their weekend plans.
Haruka's attention was drawn to the television in the breakroom as the news played a segment on the new National City branch of Lex Corp. As he watched, the familiar face of Lex Luthor appeared on the screen, the billionaire known for his bitter rivalry with the iconic hero, Superman.
Lex Luthor, the brilliant but troubled mind behind Lex Corp, had long been obsessed with defeating Superman, viewing the Kryptonian hero as a threat to humanity. Their clash of ideologies and clashing egos had played out across the headlines for years, with Lex constantly seeking ways to undermine or destroy Superman.
Haruka knew the history well, having grown up fascinated by the exploits of both men. Lex, a brilliant businessman and scientist, had amassed a fortune and built a technological empire, using his resources to fund his crusade against the Man of Steel. Superman, on the other hand, represented the pinnacle of heroism, using his incredible powers to protect the innocent and uphold justice.
The news report shifted to the opening of Lex Corp's new National City branch, headed by Lex's sister, Lena Luthor. Lena, a rising star in her own right, had taken on the mantle of leading this new venture, promising to use Lex Corp's resources to benefit the people of National City.
"Lex Corp is committed to creating a brighter future for all," Lena declared, her confident demeanor belying the Luthor name she carried.
"We will work tirelessly to develop technologies and solutions that improve the lives of our citizens, not just here in National City, but around the world."
Haruka listened intently, his brow furrowed in thought. The Luthor family's history was a complex one, marked by both brilliance and darkness. While Lex's obsession with defeating Superman had led him down a dangerous path, Haruka couldn't help but wonder if Lena might be different, if she truly intended to use Lex Corp's resources for good.
As the news report continued, highlighting Lena's plans for the new branch, Haruka's mind drifted to his own responsibilities as Kamen Rider. The idea of a Luthor-owned company operating in National City, so close to where he and Kara protected the city, was both intriguing and concerning.
Haruka knew that Lex Luthor's relentless pursuit of Superman had often put innocent lives at risk. The thought of that same level of determination and resources being directed at Kamen Rider or Supergirl sent a chill down his spine.
"Haruka, are you alright?" Lily's voice broke through his thoughts, and he turned to find his colleagues looking at him with concern.
"Yes, I'm fine," Haruka assured them, forcing a smile. "Just thinking about the news, that's all."
The others nodded, their attention returning to the television as the report continued. Haruka, however, couldn't shake the unease that had settled in the pit of his stomach. He knew that the arrival of Lex Corp in National City could mean trouble, and he would need to be vigilant, both as Haruka and as Kamen Rider, to ensure the safety of the city and its people.
…
Lena Luthor sits at her desk in the opulent office atop the Lex Corp tower. Her raven-black hair is styled in loose waves, framing her striking green eyes and pale, flawless complexion. Lena wears a tailored, midnight-blue dress that accentuates her slender frame, exuding an air of sophistication. A simple yet elegant silver necklace adorns her neck, drawing attention to her sharp jawline.
With her elbows resting on the polished mahogany desk, Lena's fingers steeple as she contemplates the reports before her. Her expression is pensive, a hint of determination visible in the set of her brow. The vast city skyline visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows casts a warm glow across the room, complementing Lena's striking features.
Lena Luthor's presence commands attention, her poise and bearing befitting a woman born into one of the most powerful families in the world. Despite the weight of her family's legacy, she carries herself with a quiet confidence, her mind clearly focused on the tasks at hand.
Lena Luthor sat at her desk, her fingers steepled as she contemplated the reports before her. The vast city skyline visible through the floor-to-ceiling windows cast a warm glow across the room, complementing her striking features.
Suddenly, a hologram of Lex Luthor appeared in front of her, and Lena greeted her brother. "Lex," she said, her voice calm and measured.
"Lena," Lex replied, his tone equally composed. "I trust everything is settled with the building?"
"Yes, the new LexCorp branch in National City is fully operational," Lena confirmed.
Lex nodded, a hint of satisfaction in his expression. "Good. Now, I have a few objectives for you."
"What are they?"
"Your primary objective is to observe Supergirl," Lex stated, his gaze unwavering. "I want you to keep a close eye on her and, if possible, capture her."
"Capture Supergirl? Lex, that seems rather ambitious, even for you."
Lex waved a dismissive hand. "Don't worry, Lena. I have my reasons." He paused, his expression turning more serious. "There's another objective I want you to focus on as well."
"And what would that be?" Lena asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Kamen Rider," Lex replied, his lips curving into a slight smile. "I'm interested in his technology, and I want you to meet with him."
"Kamen Rider? I don't know much about him. Why are you so interested in him?"
Lex's smile widened. "His technology could be the key to defeating Superman. I want to acquire it, whatever it takes."
"Defeating Superman? Lex, I thought we were past this obsession of yours."
Lex's expression darkened. "Never, Lena. Superman is a threat to humanity’s independence, and I will do whatever it takes to eliminate him." He paused, then continued, "That's why I need Kamen Rider's tech. It may be the only way to stop him."
Lena watched as Lex waved his hand, and a series of holographic images appeared, showcasing Kamen Rider's various armors.
"As you can see, Kamen Rider has access to a wide range of powerful technologies," Lex explained, his eyes gleaming with fascination. "He has revealed different armors in the past, each one more impressive than the last."
Lena studied the images, her own curiosity piqued. "This Kamen Rider certainly seems formidable. Do we know anything about his identity or where he comes from?"
Lex shook his head. "No, his true identity remains a mystery. But that's what makes him so intriguing. Imagine what we could accomplish if we had access to that kind of technology."
"And you want me to meet with him, to try and acquire his tech?"
"Precisely," Lex replied, his expression darkening. "Whatever it takes, Lena. We cannot let this opportunity slip away."
"Understood, Lex. I'll do my best to make contact with Kamen Rider and secure his cooperation."
"Excellent," Lex said, his hologram beginning to fade. "I'll be in touch, Lena. Don't disappoint me."
With that, the hologram disappeared, leaving Lena alone in the office. She leaned back in her chair, her gaze fixed on the city skyline outside.
"Kamen Rider," she murmured, the name rolling off her tongue. "What secrets do you hold?"
Lena turned to her computer and spoke, "What is the status of Subject 13?"
The computer's monotone voice replied, "Subject 13 is currently in stasis."
Lena nodded and tapped a few commands, causing a holographic image to materialize before her. The image depicted a young man with a muscular, athletic build, his dark hair swept back from a strong, chiseled face. Piercing blue eyes gazed out from the projection, conveying a sense of both power and vulnerability.
"So, this is the asset Lex has provided me," Lena murmured, studying the details of the hologram. "Cadmus has just completed him, and they want me to gather on-field data on Subject 13."
She leaned back in her chair, a contemplative expression on her face. "Well, I'm certain I can put him to good use."
Lena's fingers danced across the keyboard, her mind racing with the possibilities this new subject presented. As she made the necessary preparations, a faint smile tugged at the corners of her lips. With Lex's resources and her own ingenuity, she was confident that Subject 13 would prove to be a valuable addition to her plans.
…
Haruka sits in his room, absentmindedly scrolling through various online videos. As he browses, he stumbles upon a podcast hosted by the infamous Leslie Willis, a controversial radio personality known for her biting commentary.
Intrigued, Haruka decides to listen in, unaware that this particular podcast is closely connected to CatCo, the media company where his friend Kara works.
The podcast begins with Leslie's confident introduction.
"Welcome, listeners, to another episode of 'Willis Wonderland,' where I'm about to unleash the truth on Supergirl and Kamen Rider."
Haruka leans forward, his attention piqued as Leslie launches into her critique of the two heroes.
"Let's start with Supergirl, shall we?" Leslie says, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "This so-called 'Girl of Steel' prances around in that ridiculous skirt, acting like she's some kind of savior. Please, give me a break. Her outfit looks like it was designed by a five-year-old with a crayon."
Haruka frowns, feeling a twinge of irritation at Leslie's dismissive tone.
"And then there's Kamen Rider," Leslie continues, her voice rising in pitch. "This guy thinks he's some kind of high-tech superhero, but let's be real - his costume looks like it was cobbled together from a junkyard. It's all bulky and awkward, like he's trying too hard to be intimidating."
Haruka's brow furrows as he listens to Leslie's scathing remarks, her words clearly aimed at stirring up controversy and drama rather than offering any genuine insight.
"These two 'heroes' think they're so special, but let's be honest - they're just a pair of attention-seekers who are desperate for the spotlight," Leslie declares, her tone dripping with disdain. "Supergirl with her holier-than-thou attitude, and Kamen Rider with his flashy gadgets and gizmos. They're nothing but a bunch of posers, and I, for one, am not buying into their act."
Haruka shakes his head, finding it difficult to listen to Leslie's relentless attacks on Supergirl and Kamen Rider. He knows that both heroes have made significant contributions to the city, and he can't help but feel that Leslie's words are fueled more by her own agenda than any genuine criticism.
As the podcast continues, Leslie's rant only grows more heated, and Haruka finds himself growing increasingly uncomfortable with the direction the conversation has taken. He wonders if Kara, who works at CatCo, is aware of this podcast and its connection to her workplace.
The next day, Kara and Haruka meet up at a cozy cafe in downtown National City. As they settle into their seats, Kara leans in, her expression troubled.
"Haruka, have you heard Leslie Willis' latest podcast?" she asks, her brow furrowed. "She's been going on and on about how terrible Supergirl and Kamen Rider are."
Haruka nods, recalling the harsh criticism he had listened to the previous day. "Yes, I heard it. It was... quite a rant."
"I can't believe she's allowed to spew that kind of vitriol, especially since CatCo is in the same building as her studio. It's so unfair!"
Haruka reaches across the table, placing a calming hand on Kara's arm. "I understand your frustration, but getting angry won't help. Leslie thrives on this kind of reaction."
Kara frowns, her shoulders slumping slightly. "I know, but it just makes me so mad. Supergirl and Kamen Rider are heroes, and they don't deserve to be treated this way."
"I'm frustrated too, but we can't exactly tell Leslie not to speak badly about them. That would only make things worse."
"On another topic, have you heard about the new branch of Lex Corp that just opened in the city?"
Kara's face immediately soured, and she let out a frustrated sigh. "Ugh, don't even get me started on that."
Haruka tilted his head, sensing the distress in his friend's voice. "What's got you so worked up about it?"
Kara replies, "I just don't trust anyone with the last name Luthor. That family has done so much damage, and I'm worried about what Lex Corp's presence in National City could mean."
"Sounds like it's personal," he said, observing Kara's evident distress.
"Not really...It's just, you know. Luthor has always targeted Superman, so he might also target Supergirl."
Haruka raised an eyebrow, a hint of teasing in his voice. "I guess a fangirl would stand up for her heroes."
"Hey, who are you calling a fangirl?" Kara retorted, her eyes narrowing.
Without warning, she reached across the table and swatted Haruka's shoulder. "Ow, you have quite a force there," he said, rubbing the sore spot.
Kara leaned back, a small smirk playing on her lips. "That will make you think twice before messing with me."
Haruka glanced at the time, then looked at Kara. "Are you going to be late getting back to CatCo?"
Kara's eyes widened as she checked the clock on her phone. "Oh no, my break is almost over!" She hurriedly gathered her things. "I've got to get going. I'll talk to you later, Haruka!"
With a quick wave, Kara rushed out of the café, leaving Haruka behind to ponder their conversation.
…
Kara hurried through the revolving doors of the CatCo building, her quick steps allowing her to arrive at her desk just as her break ended. Straightening her blouse, she took a deep breath, grateful that her superspeed had allowed her to make it back on time without drawing any unwanted attention.
As she settled into her chair, Kara glanced around the bustling newsroom, relieved to see that no one seemed to have noticed her brief absence. Reaching for her laptop, she immersed herself in her work.
Kara sees the elevator doors open, revealing Leslie Willis. Leslie is a striking woman with a bold, confident demeanor. Her hair is styled in a sleek, high ponytail, and she wears a form-fitting red dress that accentuates her curves. As she steps out of the elevator, she scans the newsroom with a smug expression, her gaze settling on Kara.
Leslie saunters over to Kara's desk, a hint of disdain in her voice. "Is Cat Grant here? I heard she called for me."
Kara inwardly dislikes Leslie's arrogant attitude, but she tries her best not to let it show. "I'll go check," she replies politely, standing up from her desk.
Kara makes her way to Cat's office, knocking gently on the door. "Ms. Grant, Leslie Willis is here to see you."
Cat looks up from her computer, a slight frown on her face. "Send her in," she says, her tone clipped.
Kara returns to her desk and gestures for Leslie to enter Cat's office. "Ms. Grant will see you now," she says, trying to keep her voice neutral.
Leslie strides into Cat's office, her high heels clicking against the polished floor. Kara subtly activates her X-ray vision, allowing her to peer through the walls and observe the interaction. She also focuses her superhearing, tuning in to the conversation.
"You called for me, Ms. Grant?" she asks, arching an eyebrow.
"I listened to your latest podcast, Leslie. And I'm warning you - leave Supergirl and Kamen Rider alone."
"Oh, come on, Cat. You're always telling me not to cross a line, and then a week later, there's a new line to cross."
"I found you in a shoebox of a radio station and mentored you to the best of my ability. For the most part, I was proud of that."
"As long as I delivered the ratings you wanted, you didn't care who I went after."
"This is different," Cat says firmly. "I'm trying to cultivate a relationship between Supergirl and Kamen Rider for CatCo. If I could, I would adopt Supergirl."
Leslie scoffs. "So you're protecting your precious heroes now? What happened to the Cat Grant who used to push the boundaries?"
"I'm still the same Cat Grant. But Supergirl and Kamen Rider are different. They're not just headlines - they're symbols of hope. And I won't let you tear them down, no matter how many ratings it might bring in."
Leslie opens her mouth to retort, but Cat raises a hand. "This is my final warning, Leslie. Leave them alone, or there will be consequences."
"Are you seriously trying to dictate what I say on my own show now?"
"That's exactly what I'm doing. Supergirl and Kamen Rider are changing the conversation in this city, and people don't want your brand of negativity anymore. They want hope, optimism, and justice."
"So you're a hypocrite now, is that it?" Leslie scoffs. "Since when did you start caring about that kind of thing?"
"I've always cared," Cat replies evenly. "But now, Supergirl and Kamen Rider have raised the bar. And if you can't keep up, then you're no longer a good fit for this company."
Leslie opens her mouth to argue further, but a sudden rumble of thunder interrupts her. Cat glances towards the window, a faint smile playing on her lips.
"Speaking of keeping up, it looks like the weather is about to take a turn. And I have the perfect new assignment for you, Leslie."
"What are you talking about?"
"You're going to be our new traffic reporter." Cat pauses, the smile widening. "And you'll be reporting live from a helicopter."
"You can't be serious," Leslie protests, her eyes widening. "I can't do that! I have a phobia of heights, and with these thunderstorms..."
Another rumble of thunder punctuates her words, and Cat nods sagely. "I suggest you stock up on Dramamine, Leslie. Your ride is going to be a bumpy one."
Leslie opens her mouth to argue further, but Cat raises a hand, effectively silencing her. "This is not up for discussion. You start your new assignment effective immediately. The chopper is waiting for you on the roof."
With a final glare, Leslie turns and storms out of the office, leaving Cat alone with the sound of the brewing storm outside.
Kara smiled, feeling content that Leslie had been put in her place. She was surprised that Ms. Grant had been the one to protect Supergirl and Kamen Rider. This made Kara see Cat in a new light.
Moments later, Cat's voice rang out from her office. "Kara, come in here."
Kara straightened her blouse and hurried to Cat's office, knocking gently on the door.
"Come in," Cat called out.
Kara entered the office, clasping her hands in front of her. "You wanted to see me, Ms. Grant?"
"Yes, Kara." Cat gestured to the small table in the corner. "I need you to go get my salad and coffee. And be quick about it."
"Of course, Ms. Grant." Kara hurried to the table, picking up the items and turning to leave.
"Oh, and Kara?" Cat's voice stopped her.
Kara turned back, waiting for Cat's instructions.
"Keep an eye on Leslie. I don't want her stirring up any more trouble for our heroes."
"I'll make sure of it, Ms. Grant," Kara replied, her eyes shining with determination.
With a nod, Kara exited the office, carefully balancing the salad and coffee as she made her way back to her desk. As she set the items down, she couldn't help but feel a newfound respect for her boss. Cat's willingness to defend Supergirl and Kamen Rider had been a pleasant surprise, and Kara was grateful for the protection.
…
Leslie steps into the elevator, alone, and lets out a frustrated sigh. She glares at the floor as the doors close, muttering under her breath.
"That self-righteous, holier-than-thou Cat Grant. Who does she think she is, telling me what I can and can't say on my own show?" Leslie's voice drips with disdain. "I'm the biggest radio personality in this city, and she just demoted me to a traffic reporter. As if I'm some sort of incompetent hack."
Leslie clenches her fists, her nails digging into her palms. "This is an insult. I built my career on being bold, on speaking my mind. And now that hack Supergirl and that masked freak Kamen Rider are the new darlings of National City, Cat wants to put a muzzle on me?"
Leslie feels electricity crackling in her palms as she exits the elevator, the sparks growing stronger with her building anger. She arrives at the CatCo helipad, where the pilot waits.
"Alright, let's get this over with," Leslie mutters, not bothering with a greeting as she climbs into the helicopter. Thunderous rumbles echo in the distance, hinting at an approaching storm.
"Uh, good afternoon, Ms. Willis. Looks like we might have some weather to deal with, but we should be able to get your traffic report done before it hits." said the pilot of the helicopter.
"Whatever. Just get me up in the air so I can finish this ridiculous assignment and get back on the ground."
The pilot nods hesitantly and starts the helicopter, lifting it off the helipad. Leslie gazes out the window, her brow furrowed in frustration.
"Stupid Supergirl and that masked freak. Who do they think they are, stealing the spotlight? I built my career on being bold and outspoken, and now Cat Grant wants to silence me?"
She clenches her fists, the electricity flickering between her fingers.
"Well, we'll see about that. Nobody tells me what I can and can't say. I'm going to give National City a piece of my mind, whether they like it or not."
As the helicopter rises higher, the distant thunderstorm grows louder, the dark clouds swirling ominously.
