Haruka returned to the familiar halls of National High School, the internship period behind him and his classmates now focused on finals and graduation.
He settled into his desk, the worn wooden surface a stark reminder of normalcy after his recent extraordinary experiences. The mundane classroom felt almost surreal—a sharp contrast to the high-stakes adventures he'd just survived. As his classmates chattered around him, Haruka found himself momentarily lost in thought.
Kara walked in, her bright smile uplifted Haruka's spirits. She sat in her usual seat beside him.
"Can you believe the internship is over?" Kara sighs, plopping down in the seat next to him. "I thought it would last forever."
Haruka nodded, a small smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah, me too." He paused, his mind briefly drifting... Livewire causing city-wide blackouts. Ignakos rampaging through the park. That unexpected encounter with Superboy. The chaotic battle against a monstrous Calton. Anur's sinister mind control of Kara. The intense confrontation with Astra. So much had happened—it felt like years had passed, not mere weeks. But he quickly pushed those memories aside, unwilling to get lost in the whirlwind of recent events.
Kara turned to Haruka, her eyes bright with curiosity. "So, what college are you planning to attend?"
Haruka blinked, realizing he hadn't given much thought to his academic future. "Probably the local community college," he said casually. "It's close by, and convenient."
Her expression shifted from curiosity to mild frustration. "You can't just be lazy about your future, Haruka," Kara said firmly. "You need to think about your education, your career path."
Haruka shifted uncomfortably in his seat. The truth was, his primary focus had been being Kamen Rider, protecting the city, and completing missions for Ada. College seemed secondary to his superhero responsibilities.
Kara's words hung in the air, causing Haruka to pause and actually consider his future. He hadn't really thought beyond his current circumstances. Her pointed critique made him realize he needed to give more serious thought to his long-term plans.
Haruka's phone vibrated softly in his pocket. He discreetly pulled it out, his expression darkening as he read the message. The name "Lena Luthor" on the screen immediately tensed his shoulders.
The message was brief but direct. Lena was reminding him of their previous agreement to let her examine his Kamen Rider armor. Her tone was businesslike, but Haruka knew better. Every interaction with a Luthor felt like walking through a minefield.
Kara, seated next to him, noticed the sudden change in his demeanor. "Is everything okay?" she asked, her voice tinged with concern.
Haruka quickly composed himself. "Nothing," he said, his voice neutral. "Just some plans after school."
He tucked the phone away, careful to reveal nothing more. The less Kara knew about his potential meeting with Lena, the better.
Haruka turned his attention to the front of the classroom as the teacher began the lesson. Kara glanced at him, her brow furrowed with concern, but she trusted that Haruka knew what he was doing. She didn't pry, understanding that he would confide in her if he needed to.
Haruka stood in front of the imposing Lexcorp tower, his apprehension growing with each passing moment. The same secretary from his previous visit approached, greeting him politely.
"Ms. Luthor is ready to see you, Mr. Kojima," she said, gesturing for him to follow.
Haruka steeled himself and trailed the secretary through the sleek, modern lobby. The elevator ride to Lena's office was tense and silent, each floor bringing him closer to the inevitable confrontation.
Finally, the doors opened, and Haruka stepped into Lena's domain. She greeted him with a measured smile, her piercing gaze studying him intently.
"Thank you for coming, Haruka," Lena said, her tone calm and composed. "Please, have a seat. We have much to discuss."
Haruka took a seat as the secretary served him some tea. Lena watched him carefully, her expression thoughtful.
"I'm glad you came, Haruka," Lena said, her voice measured. "I wasn't sure if you would keep your promise."
Haruka met her gaze evenly. "I always keep my word, Lena. You helped me rescue Supergirl, and I owe you for that."
Lena nodded, a faint smile playing on her lips. "I appreciate your honesty. And don't worry about the device I gave you. It served its purpose, even if it got destroyed."
Haruka felt a sense of relief wash over him. "I'm glad to hear that."
Lena leaned back in her chair, her eyes never leaving Haruka's face. "So, shall we discuss what comes next?"
Haruka leaned forward, his brow furrowed. "How exactly do you plan to study my armor, Lena?"
Lena's lips curved into a slight smile. "Well, Haruka, I was hoping you might be willing to part with that transformation belt of yours. The one with the red lines, to be precise." She clasped her hands together, her gaze unwavering.
Haruka hesitated, his fingers instinctively moving to the storage space where he kept the Faiz Driver. After a moment's consideration, he pulled out the sleek, crimson-accented belt and placed it on Lena's desk.
Lena's eyes lit up with fascination as she carefully picked up the Faiz Driver, running her fingers along its contours. "Fascinating," she murmured, her brow furrowed in concentration. "The craftsmanship is exquisite, and the materials used are quite unique."
Haruka watched Lena's inspection, his own curiosity piqued despite his apprehension. He knew the Faiz Driver was a powerful and integral part of his Kamen Rider arsenal, but he also understood Lena's desire to unravel its mysteries.
As Lena continued to examine the belt, Haruka couldn't help but wonder what she had in store for him and his Kamen Rider abilities.
Haruka watched intently as Lena held the Faiz Driver, her fingers tracing its intricate design. "Tell me, Haruka," Lena said, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "If I were to take this belt, would it simply disappear from my possession?"
Haruka leaned forward, a faint smile playing on his lips. "Why don't you try it and find out?"
Lena's brow furrowed as she considered his words. After a moment, she turned to the secretary standing nearby. "Please, take this to the lab and have it thoroughly examined," she instructed, handing the belt to the woman.
The secretary nodded and hurried towards the elevator, the Faiz Driver in her grasp. Haruka's gaze followed the belt, his heart racing with anticipation.
As the secretary stepped into the elevator, a sudden flash of light enveloped the Faiz Driver, and it vanished from her hands. Lena's eyes widened in surprise, and she turned to Haruka, who simply sat there, the Faiz Driver now securely fastened around his waist.
"Impossible," Lena breathed, her expression a mix of wonder and frustration. "How did you—"
Haruka replied calmly, "Magic." Lena's frown deepened, her brow furrowing in displeasure. "Magic? Surely you don't expect me to believe in such nonsense." She leaned forward, her piercing gaze fixed on Haruka. "If that's the case, then it seems I can't properly study this belt without you nearby." Lena's lips curved into a calculating smile. "In that case, I insist you follow me. Let's see what other secrets your belt holds."
///
Please give power stones daily to support this story.
Advance chapters on my P@tE0N Najicablitz, which is also the best way to support me.