El Hazard and it's characters are owned by AIC and Pioneer LDC. The author owns only the writing. Chapter 7: Park Outside School Under the shade of the park trees, Makoto began explaining to the club what happened. It was the ten minute explanation which concentrated on the time loop Ifurita created and how the Bugrom were sent to Earth. The trip to Aralmon, Makoto having to disguise himself as Fatora, Hiashi's fight with Kazusa, Miz's marriage, they were all left out. Anyone apart from Makoto and Ifurita were lucky to get mentioned twice by the time he finished. His story seemed to satisfy everyone, though some felt they were short changed. They could tell there was more to Makoto's tale. A lot more. But the juicy details weren't important. Telling them where the Bugrom came from and why they were at Shininome was. The sound of cars braking silenced any questions before they could be asked. Parents shouted the names of their children. Cyber knew his parents wouldn't be here and faded back into the shadows and darkness with practiced ease. Makoto and Nanami were surprised at their arrival. Nanami held no reservations, "Mom! Dad! How did you know I was here?" she called out as she embraced both of them crying. "We heard about the panic and were with the other parents when the principal just called us. But that's not important now. Where have you been and where's your brother?" her father asked. "That pest? Who cares?!" "Nanami, he's your brother. Don't you care about him?" her mother pleaded. "Not one bit." "How can you say that?" her mother said shocked. "You don't know what he's been doing." Meanwhile Makoto's reunion with his parents was silent. Words didn't need to be said. Solid hugs and tears spoke volumes. The other parents collected their sons and daughter and prepared to leave. Mecha paused to speak with Hiashi. He wanted to know more about what was going on, and if he could help any. The two agreed to meet the next day. "Mom, Dad, Mr. and Mrs. Jinnai, our friends need a place to stay for the night. Would you mind...?" Makoto asked. "I'm staying here until they let him out." Miz said defiantly. "Oh no, we're not going to let you hang around a school at night. You're coming with us. Mr.Fujisawa will know where you are." Nanami said taking hold of her arm. "Son, I think you should tell us exactly what's going on. How did you become ... involved with these young women?" Makoto's father said. "Yes sir. But not here." "We'll invite everyone to our house for dinner. I still have your favorite in the refrigerator." his mother suggested. "Food? We're there." Shayla said enthusiastically grabbing Hiashi by the arm. "Shayla, you just had lunch a few hours ago." Hiashi reminded her. "So what? I thought afterwards you could show me around as we look for Bugs." "So we're all agreed." Makoto's mother said happily. Unfortunately eleven people and a penalty weight in luggage cannot fit into two small cars. Ultimately Nanami and her mother took one car. Knowing Hiashi's condition, how prolonged physical activity causes an excess amount of lactic acid which eats at his muscles and poisons his blood, he was offered a ride also. But to the parents' surprise, he refused. Miz and Ifurita went with Makoto's mother in the other. No one thought a pregnant woman should walk and Ifurita's appearance would draw too many stares. Interestingly enough Mrs.Mizuhara got along well with Miz, making small talk, asking about her pregnancy, but barely said two words to Ifurita. Ifurita simply sat in the back seat looking out the window in silence. She brought back Makoto's memories he gave her. Everything was exactly how he remembered even the storm damage to the old Hibiki place. Ifurita knew Mrs.Mizuhara was a nice woman, Ifurita felt like she knew her already. Her love for Makoto was extended to include his family. The silence of the woman before Ifurita saddened her. The walk back was held in silence. Makoto and his father were out front. Both Shaylas were walking arm in arm a half-step behind. Followed by the other Priestesses then Mr.Jinnai to make sure no one got left behind. The Hazardians looked curiously at the cars and different style of architecture. Makoto decided on a more concealing route, along the side streets. It didn't take long for them to get sick of the smell of garbage and other trash. Fortunately by the time they decided to risk discovery by going along the residential streets, there was practically no traffic. At least it was dark enough so no one would pay attention to seven people, even if they were strangely dressed. Once Mr.Mizuhara asked if Hiashi needed a rest. They had walked over a mile and he wasn't even winded. "Thank you sir, but I can manage. I've gotten a bit better since we last met. I have a pretty good endurance now." "I'll say." Shayla said bumping her hip against his once knowingly. Hiashi could only smile in embarrassment and a hit of pride. Mr.Mizuhara's brow wrinkled and walked a little faster to pull ahead. Quietly he said, "Son, I haven't said anything yet, but that woman is being far too friendly with Hiashi. She just doesn't seem his type. What right does she have being so close to him?" "Well, sir, I guess she has every right. You see, they're married." Makoto said knowing the reaction. "Married?!" Mr.Mizuhara said in loud disbelief. Mr.Jinnai echoed the word and tone. "Married!" Shayla and Hiashi repeated happily. "Married." Afura muttered in jealousy. "I wonder if this is what Miz went through." she thought to herself. Mr.Mizuhara was about to ask for more details, but something told him his son would explain it soon enough. He remembered Hiashi as a quiet, unassuming boy; to be married to such a loud and emotional woman was nearly unthinkable. Mr.Jinnai was equally stunned. They continued to walk in uneasy silence. If Shayla or Hiashi were aware of the shock the adults were in, they didn't show it. There weren't any bars or stores or anything interesting to look at, so they walked faster. Shayla hoped things would still be open after plans were finalized.