Zero Two

Zero Two (ゼロツー) is one of the main characters in DARLING in the FRANXX series. She is an elite FRANXX pilot who is a member of a race of humans with klaxosaur blood. She is the pistil of the FranXX Strelizia.

Appearance
In her human form, Zero Two has long pink hair and a pair of red horns on her head. Her eyes are cyan with pinkish-red eyeliner. She has a slender and athletic figure. She is the tallest girl among the squad and about the same height as Hiro.

Zero Two has a distinct red uniform that no other parasite or personnel seem to share. Her full ensemble is composed of a white military cap with a matching overcoat and boots. She is at often times seen wearing her signature red uniform, black leggings, and white boots. She also wear a limiter headband on her horns for currently unknown reasons.

Zero Two is usually seen eating a lollipop.

Personality
Zero Two's personality is described as dangerous yet alluring. She's an elite pilot with the pseudonym "Partner Killer" (パートナー殺し), given the mysterious happenings of her co-pilots dying after a short number of FranXX outings.

- Zero Two has a sense of humour tempered by some empathy. - Zero Two is apparently lacking in decorum and etiquette: - Zero Two has serious mindset and is easily bored. - Zero Two appears to have a sweet tooth. - Zero Two has a sense of duty, virtue and  self-restraint.
 * She jokingly accused Hiro of being a pervert, but understands he actually rushed in to save her from drowning.
 * She playfully antagonizes Nana, but still complies with orders (sometimes).
 * She occasionally jokes around Hiro and be in high spirits whenever they are together. (Ex. when they do that waltz).
 * She casually converses completely naked with Hiro, whom she just met. She subsequently seduced him.
 * She eats with her bare hands, and has not been seen using cutlery.
 * She used Zorome's uniform as a napkin to wipe the honey off her hand (while he was still wearing it).
 * She nonchalantly sat on Hiro's lap while Ichigo was present and the parasites were having breakfast.
 * She also has a habit of licking herself and others.
 * She charged into the boy's bath while Hiro was naked.
 * Whenever shown out of combat, in a meeting, or simply being around, she is shown to have a lack of interest,
 * She always has a lollipop.
 * She pours a gratuitous amount of honey on her food before eating it, as well as on Hiro's food when they are sharing.
 * She was willing to sacrifice herself piloting a FranXX by herself in order to save Plantation 13.
 * She peacefully complied with guards orders with minimal resistance (initially).


 * Even after being insulted and even slapped, Zero Two does not fight back but tries to diffuse the situation.

EPISODE 1: Alone and Lonesome!
Zero Two is seen on the carrier. She asks Nana where she can find an ocean, as she feels like swimming.

Zero Two is later spotted by Hiro skinny dipping in a lake near The Birdcage. She disappears, prompting Hiro to assume she is drowning and in need of rescue. Zero Two jumps out of the water with horns elongated and a live fish in her mouth. She spits out the fish and licks herself believing that she will taste "salty", to her disappointment.

Zero Two, in the nude, begins to converse with Hiro. She then tackles him into the water and licks his cheek, remarking that he tastes "dangerous" and she loves it. His "taste" coupled with the fact that he was not afraid of her horns (in fact, he loves them) prompts her to propose that he become her "Darling". Before Hiro can accept, Nana and Zero Two's "partner" arrive to retrieve her.

During the welcoming ceremony, a klaxosaur appears and attacks the new FranXX, damaging the garage. Zero Two piloting Strelizia- Stampede saves the Parasites, notably Goro and Ichigo, from a would-be particle beam. Strelizia and the klaxosaur battle causing catastrophic damage to the outer wall of The Plantation. Strelizia is overcome and is flung into a section of The Plantation, crashing where Hiro had been viewing the battle.

The lifeless body of Zero Two's partner, [Code: 081], drops out of the derelict Strelizia. Zero Two emerges from the wreckage bloodied and tells Hiro she'll have to pilot the Strelizia alone as "she always has". Hiro begins to reprimand her that if she pilots a FranXX in her current state she'll die. Zero Two claims she isn't afraid of death and if she doesn't do it countless more people will die from the klaxosaur attack. Hiro declares that he will ride with her. Zero Two asks if he's ready to die which Hiro states he doesn't know but he may very well be if he can't pilot a FranXX. Zero Two extends her hand to him mirroring their initial meeting at the lake. Hiro takes her and she pulls him into the cockpit declaring him her "Darling" and they kiss. The kiss reactivates the Strelizia and the Hiro-Zero Two pairing unlocks its "Iron Maiden" form to the amazement of Dr. FranXX and everyone else.

The new Iron Maiden Strelizia begins to overpower the klaxosaur and destroy it's core effectively killing the mechanical beast. In the aftermath, repairs are being done to the damage of the klaxosaur attack, Zero Two carrying an unconscious Hiro alight from the now deactivated Iron Maiden Strelizia. Zero Two gazes into the sunset and shoots Hiro a gleeful smile saying "I found you, my Darling!"

EPISODE 2: What it Means to Connect!
Zero Two is having breakfast at The Birdcage with the Parasites. She completely covers her meal in honey and proceeds to eat it with her bare hands to the disgust of all the Parasites except Hiro. She is approached by Zorome in an attempt to "hit on her"while putting down Hiro. She begins to wipe her honeyed hand on his uniform mortifying Zorome. Zero Two takes the pitcher of honey and starts sitting with Hiro and begins pouring honey all over his breakfast as well. She curls around him and calls him "darling" then proceeds to sit on his lap to feed him, much to the anguish of Ichigo so as to prevent her from finishing her meal.

Nana enters the room and informs them that Zero Two is on "standby" awaiting further other from HQ. She also commands to go back to her own table and not to mix with the Parasites. Zero Two antagonizes Nana stating that she merely wanted to have breakfast with her darling.

Later in the hangar, Zero Two is confronted by Ichigo. Ichigo thanks Zero Two for saving their lives but warns her to stay away from Hiro so as not to get his hope up then hurt him. Ichigo declares that she is not part of "their" squad. Zero Two approaches her and asks Ichigo what she "is" to her darling. Ichigo states that she is the leader of the squad. Zero Two begins to sniff her and lick her cheek astonishing Ichigo. Zero Two says she tastes "sweet" and that she likes her taste before gleefully leaving.

During the discussion for Hiro's parasite promotion, Zero Two volunteers to be his partner, he being he darling. Zero Two's proposal is met with harsh resistance by Ichigo, stating that she is not part of the squad and that if the test is merely to measure Hiro's aptitude it should work with her, having Zero Two participate would be unnecessary. Nana informs Zero Two that HQ hasn't authorized the use of the Strelizia so Hiro will have perform with one of his squadmates. Zero Two concedes stating that her injuries haven't completely healed yet. She allows Ichigo to have Hiro and go for it "this one time" and to make sure to take care of "her" darling.

After Ichigo's spectacular failure, Zero Two is shown flipping her hair in the wind and triumphantly eating her lollipop while leaving the training grounds.

EPISODE 3: Fighting Puppet!
Zero two is first shown waiting for Hiro to finish his solo training. After he finishes, he finds her asleep in an atrium. Once she wakes up, she takes him around the facility. However, due to Hiro's status he has limited access to certain areas, whereas Zero Two has an S-Class ID which implies unrestricted access. Thinking quickly, Zero Two takes Hiro's hand and they "waltz" through the doors, tricking the system.

Once gaining access, Zero Two leads Hiro to the Inner City of Plantation 13. While Hiro is awestruck by the view, Zero Two overlooks the city melancholically. Hiro shoots her a grateful look, and she asks him why he's staring at her. Hiro replies that he's trying to think of a name for her. Zero Two then jumps the rail and begins to walk out onto the ledge. She expresses her depressive view of the city, it's inhabitants and life. Zero Two then asks Hiro to run away with her offering to get him out of that place. Before Hiro can answer, Zero Two pretends to fall but actually somersaults back the the safety of the balcony. She lightly jokes that she was kidding.

Zero Two appears next when the underground mission against the Conrad-class klaxosaur went awry. While the team celebrates their apparent victory, Zero Two shows up in a dark corner remarking that it isn't over. All of a sudden a swarm of similar klaxosaurs and a giant version of the initial one begin to ambush the FranXXs. As the situation grows increasingly dire, Zero Two consistently prods Nana into letting her ride with Hiro in order to save them. Nana persistently denies her, till Hiro submits the Zero Two ride with Mitsuru, the only available "official" stamen, in order to save the squad. Zero Two is greatly disappointed in Hiro and gives him the silent treatment and she begrudgingly partners with Mitsuru.

The pair then race to rescue the squad. Initially, Mitsuru pilots the Sterlizia on par with Hiro that he proposes that Zero Two take him on as her "official partner". Zero Two puts him to the test and goes "All Out". Prompting Nana to initiate the retrieval of Strelizia and her stamen (Mitsuru). This results in a bloodied deactivated Strelizia. Zero Two emerges from the robot and gives Hiro a light wave and smile. Mitsuru does not emerge from the FranXX. He is shown to have passed out in the cockpit, bloodied and broken, on the brink of death.

EPISODE 4: Flap Flap!
In the aftermath of Mitsuru's near-death experience, Zero Two is told to return to the frontlines by Nana on Papa's orders and the Strelizia is grounded. Much to Zero Two's dismay.

Zero Two finds Hiro in the boy's bath and asks him to run away with her and leave his "weakling" comrades. Her mood dampens by Hiro's visible fear of her and asks him if he's like everyone else; if he thinks "she's a monster".

A giant centipede-like razor klaxosaur attacks the carrier meant to acquire Zero Two. Plantation 13 Parasites deployed FranXX to combat it, only to be ambushed by another klaxosaur. Zero Two and Hiro change into suits and rush into the situation room when Nana tells her that it won't help and the Strelizia is not authorized to "fly".

At this point, armed security personnel arrive to collect Zero Two and return her and the Strelizia to the front lines by any means necessary. Zero Two gives a long goodbye to Hiro remarking about how she "felt like things could work out too" and that she wanted to be with him. In lieu of a kiss, Zero Two pokes his forehead with her horns and departs with the soldiers.

While being escorted by the guards to the carrier, Hiro catches up to her, however unable to reach her due to restriction system. Hiro begins to shout out to her and apologize for his prior hesitation in the bath. Hiro explains that his fear was not of her inhumanity, but a lack of his own resolve. Hiro confesses that he doesn't care about riding the FranXX and that he just wants to with Zero Two and beg not to go. Zero Two pauses in the face of his confession. She then does a backflip, disarming one guard and using his rifle to crack the glass barrier above Hiro. She performs an aerial flip breaking through the glass reach Hiro. Now reunited, with a bashful Hiro, she coaxes him to reaffirm his confession asking him, "You wanna ride me, huh?". Hiro affirms that he does and Zero Two asks him to say it one more time, he then shouts it out for her.

Zero Two takes Hiro in her arms and they assume their waltzed pose in order to pass the restrictions and break through to the Strelizia. Once in the cockpit, Nana orders them over the comm to get out and that they do not have permission to launch. Zero Two declares she's going out with her darling and cuts Nana off in mid-sentence. Hiro pauses, due to his anxiety of failing to pilot a FranXX yet again. Zero Two reassures him that he can do it, later rephrasing it to "they" can do this. Now revitalised by Zero Two's encouragement, they pair-up and the Strelizia destroys the carries and takes to the skies en route to rescue the Parasites once again.

EPISODE 5: Your Thorn, My Badge!
Zero Two first appears awaiting for Hiro so they have breakfast together. She insists on sitting beside Hiro at Futoshi's expense, thereby forcing Futoshi to sit at the girl's table by Kokoro's invitation. While Ichigo gives the morning prayer, Zero Two is hard at work slathering her entire breakfast (and Hiro's) with honey. She then begins feeding Hiro to the disgust of Goro and the jealousy of Zorome. Futoshi and Kokoro imitate them while Ichigo silently ponders into her teacup.

After breakfast, Hiro gives Zero Two a tour of The Birdcage and their life as parasites. Zero Two then divulges that she'll soon be living their too, her announcement causes displeasure among the Parasites, especially towards Ichigo who immediately confronts Nana about this development. Ichigo accepts her stay as the will of Papa then personally sees Zero Two to her accommodations. Zero Two finds Ichigo "bossy" for not letting her share a room with Hiro.

During the joint briefing between Plantations 13 and 26, Hachi informs them that Zero Two and the Strelizia will guard the main pipeline during the kissing. The plan is met with strong opposition by the leader of the Plantation 26 parasites. He recounts an operation from 2 years prior with Zero and his Parasites. He denounces Zero Two as "reckless and shows no concern for others", he even divulges that she is the reason his previous partner is dead. Zero Two utters "Weaklings die, Big Deal". The leader is about to attack Zero Two till Hiro intervenes and defends her honor, thus defusing the situation.

Later that night, Goro spots Ichigo and Zero Two sneaking out at midnight. Apparently Ichigo pulled Zero Two aside to ensure she stay in line for the next day's mission. Zero Two dismisses her for being bossy again and begins to leave. Ichigo grabs her wrist and begins to beg Zero Two not to push Hiro too hard. Ripping herself from Ichigo's grasp, Zero Two responds that "darling (Hiro) said that he wanted to ride with her. Ichigo continues to beg her not to put a heavy burden on Hiro. Zero Two questions Ichigo if she wants Hiro and reminds her that she tried to ride with him and that "they" didn't work. Ichigo exclaimed to leave her out of it, Zero Two confronts her that she should stay out of it. Ichigo asks if she's trying to "suck him dry", Zero Two declares "darling belongs to me". An agitated Ichigo warns her that Hiro could die. Zero Two brushes it off saying that he could, and if he did then he wouldn't have amounted to much. Angered and frustrated, Ichigo calls her heartless and inhuman. She then slaps Zero Two hard so hard it damages her headband, knocking it off. Zero Two becomes enraged, her eyes and horns start to glow a malevolent red. Red Zero Two then questions Ichigo on what it means to be "human". Frightened by the being before her, Ichigo runs back to the birdcage in tears and it starts to rain. Zero Two is calmed by the feeling of the rainfall.

The next morning, Hiro goes outside and approaches a soaked Zero Two by the lake. It is implied she spent the res of the night out in the rain. Zero Two tells him that everything smells nice after it rains. Zero Two reminisces of the time they first met. Hiro thanks for her that the reason he's still there is because of her and how she gave him the chance to pilot a FranXX. Zero Two unzips his uniform revealing a blue klaxosaur tumor (and the namesake of the episode). Zero Two asks him if it hurts and if he wants to walk away from being her partner. Hiro admits that it hurts and confirms that he'll ride with her. Zero Two smiles and begins to joyfully laugh and dance having found someone willing to give his life for her.

EPISODE 6: Darling in the FranXX!
On the dawn of the mission, Hiro spots Zero Two, exiting the armoury. She glances back at him but doesn't approach as Ichigo is present. Hiro quickly ends his conversation with Ichigo and meets up with Zero Two.

During defence of the kissing, Zero Two and Hiro and oversee that battle while guarding the main pipeline, much to her boredom. Zero Two remarks that the Plantation 13 parasite's  tactics are all over the place and barely hanging in there, as they are being overwhelmed by just 4 Conrad-class klaxosaurs. In contrast to the other squad calculated and efficient method of combat. Hiro asks Zero Two why she fights klaxosaurs, she replies that the reason is because she's a monster too. Zero Two shoots the question back at Hiro, however unsure, he shrugs and states it's to protect Papa and all the adults in the plantations. Zero Two remarks his answer is lame. Hiro proposes that if the squad needs their help they should move out, Zero Two agrees.

Without further ado, Zero Two and Hiro charge into battle and begins killing the klaxosaurs by bundles. Once the minor klaxosaurs have been wiped out due the collective efforts of both squads (and mostly the Strelizia). Target Beta, initially a massive cube-klaxosaur with horns but later transforms into a humanoid form begins it's advance to the pipeline. Hiro's health deteriorates as a result of clearing the minor klaxosaurs, Zero Two checks in on him reminding him that Target Beta is real threat. Once the parasites pin down Target Beta, The Strelizia flies into the air. Hiro aims to finish it in one-blow with a downward thrust as his final act. The attack was seemingly successful as Target Beta collapses. However, Target Beta punches the Strelizia off and quickly reassembles itself once again, this time into a battering ram preparing to attack the Strelizia. The Strelizia deactivates, showing Hiro has died at the cost of that last strike.

The Strelizia takes the full brunt of attack sending it crashing into the main pipeline. With the link between Zero Two and Hiro now disconnected, Strelizia enters Stampede form, much to the horror of his squadmates. Zero Two attempts to retaliate, however futile, as she is embedded in the pipeline as Target Beta continually ram into it. Zero Two devolves into a primal state as she desperately tries to defend against the ending attacks. Hiro miraculously revives, and traces of the klaxosaur tumor rapidly disappear. Hiro calms a distressed Zero Two, declaring he's her partner and he won't leave her alone. The Strelizia returns to it's Iron Maiden Form and knocks down Target Beta, rekindling the hope and amazement of everyone (especially Dr. FranXX). Squad 13 repeats the earlier manoeuvre but with an upward strike. The attack shoots Target Beta into the sky as wings of light appear and impale it, finally putting an end to the gargantuan.

In the aftermath, Hiro is the one carrying a fatigued Zero Two out of the Strelizia this time. He is greeted and hugged by his comrades amazed that he is alive, breaking the "3 Ride" record of Zero Two. Standing apart from the celebration, Zero Two watches them. She turns to the Strelizia contemplating that she has to kill more and more klaxosaurs.

EPISODE 7: Shooting Star Moratorium!
As a reward for the successful kissing operation with Plantation 26 and the rescue of all Squad 26 parasites. Papa and HQ reward Squad 13 a leave and send them to beach by themselves at the suggestion of Dr. Franxx himself!

Zero Two finally gets to see (and taste) the ocean. She also gets to watch shooting stars.

Hiro [Code: 016]
Hiro is Zero Two's "darling". She states that they are the same and on multiple occasions declared Hiro the only one that's meant for her. While on board the carrier en route to Plantation 13, Zero Two first noticed Hiro trying to save a dying bird, she immediately exclaimed "Found you!". Zero Two took an interest in Hiro ever since they first met. Likewise, Hiro was immediately entranced by her horns (and his first look at a woman's fully naked body). She was impressed that he was not frightened by her horns (in fact he found them alluring). Zero Two and Hiro have a playful relationship; Zero Two would make these flirtatious advances towards Hiro, and he bashfully withdraws. They have exceptional compatibility that allows them to pilot the Strelizia in it's Iron Maiden form. Hiro comes to love Zero Two as well, insomuch as sacrificing his life just to ride with her.

Episode 1: Alone and Lonesome!
Hiro first saw Zero Two's silhouette swimming in the lake after having been attracted to her abandoned clothes. The next second she disappears prompting him to believe that she was drowning. Hiro rushes into the lake with her panty in hand in an effort to help her, when Zero Two launches out of the water completely naked save for a fish in her mouth. The first thing Hiro took note of was that her horns were "alluring"; Second, was she was his first-ever look at the naked female body. He was entranced and couldn't take her eyes of off her. After returning to his senses, Hiro inquires as to why she was bathing in the lake, to which Zero Two responds that she's disappointed that the "ocean" isn't salty. Hiro informs her that the lake isn't really an ocean. Zero Two retorts that it is the most ocean-like place she knows. She asks him if he wanted to swim since he was staring so hard. Hiro answers in the negative. After a brief pause, she accuses him of being a pervert noticing Hiro was in possession of her panties the whole time! Hiro explains that he found her clothes and thought she was drowning so he was gonna jump in to save her. Zero Two bursts into laughter, and thanks him for his would-be act of valour.

During the klaxosaur attack on the welcoming ceremony, Strelizia-Stampede crashed into Plantation 13, where Hiro had been observing the battle. Hiro tries to revive [Code: 081] after he drops out of the Strelizia. Zero Two tells him to stop as he's already dead. Bloodied and beaten, Hiro advises her to withdraw from the battle and that piloting a FranXX alone could kill her. Zero Two rebuts him stating that she's not afraid to die and that if she does nothing countless others will be killed in the attack. Given the circumstances of the situation, Hiro declares to pilot the FranXX with her. She swiftly questions him on whether he is ready to die, which Hiro affirms "that if he can't pilot a FranXX, he may very well be". Zero Two collects a tear from his face and extends her hand out to him once again mirroring their first meeting. This time Hiro takes it without a second thought and Zero Two pulls him into the darkness of the Strelizia's cockpit. Zero Two announces that he is now her "darling" and they have their first kiss. The kiss reactivates the derelict Strelizia, even prompting its Iron Maiden Form. The newly revitalized Strelizia overpowers and neutralizes the kalxosaur. In the aftermath, Zero Two is shown carrying an unconscious Hiro out of the Strelizia while his squamates and everyone look on. Looking into the sunset, she drops him on the ground and shoots a look him a look saying "I found you, my Darling!".

Episode 2: What it Means to Connect!
Zero Two sits with Hiro at breakfast, much to the shock and disgust of the Parasites and Ichigo. She pours honey all over Hiro's meal and proceeds to sit on Hiro's lap, much to the vexation of Ichigo. Before she can begin to feed him. Nana arrives and separates them. Later Zero Two can be seen waiting for Hiro to finish with his solo training.

Episode 3: Fighting Puppet!
Zero Two is first seen watching (and waiting) for Hiro to finish his solo training. Once finished, Hiro finds she had fallen asleep waiting for him and begins to stare at her intently. Zero Two calls him a pervert and tells him to quit staring. She cuts of Hiro in mid-apology informing him that the "doctor" (Dr. FranXX) says it's "better" for parasites to be pervy.

Zero Two takes Hiro around the facility. Zero Two uses her S-ID, however, Hiro's clearance is restricted thus being unable to progress. Zero Two takes Hiro's hand and they assume a waltz stance. The lovebirds then waltz through the door to the balcony. Hiro is in awe at the sight of the city, it being his time ever seeing the inside of Plantation 13, lamenting that fact that he's never set foot into the city being confined to the birdcage and a few facilities. Hiro then shoots a loving stare at Zero Two, upon inquiry he explains that he's trying to think of a name for her (cause he's good at naming people). Zero Two climbs over the rail and begins walking onto the ledge over the city. She tells him that names don't matter as once they die they'll be merely a statistic. Hiro warns her till she cuts him off and ask if he'd run away with her. Before he can answer, Zero Two performs several somersaults back to Hiro and whispers she was just kidding.

Episode 4: Flap Flap!
Hiro finds Zero Two looking up at the Strelizia. His is gripped with fear at the sight of her due to recalling everyone's opinions of her and how everyone who rides with her dies. He hides behind a corner before she can notice him. Zero Two later finds Hiro in the boy's bath, she gleefully advances on him and asks him "if he would like to run away with her", Hiro freezes in fright. After noticing Hiro is tramautized, her mood dampens and she asks him if he's just like everyone else and "if he thinks she's monster too. The situation is interrupted when an alert goes off prompting both of them to head to the situation room.

Hiro confessed his feeling towards her "When we first met, I couldn't take my eyes off you. I realised that I've never really cared about riding the FranXX. I wanted to ride with You!". They subsequently broke past security to the Strelizia and flew off to rescue the Parasites.

Episode 5: Your Thorn, My Badge!
Zero Two ambushes Hiro as he enter the dining room for breakfast, whisking him away from Ichigo much to her discontent. Zero Two takes Futoshi's seat in order that they sit together. Zero Two begins feeding Hiro honey covered food with her hands and saying "Ahh". Everyone else gets immediately jealous, especially Ichigo. Kokoro and Futoshi then mimic as a couple.

After breakfast, Hiro takes Zero Two on a tour around The Birdcage. He tells her what it likes to live as a parasite and their daily routines. Zero Two jumps on Hiro's bed, Hiro asks her why she wanted him to show her around, Zero Two gleefully replies that she'll be living there to. Goro and Zorome become scandalized by the situation. Hiro takes Zero Two's hand and immediately exit the boy's wing.

The next morning, Hiro finds Zero Two standing by the lake where they first met. She had been out there all night in the rain, she asks Hiro to make it rain again sometime before remembering that he actually can't do it. Hiro. Hiro says that he's not sure if he can yet, he tells her, "It's only because I met you that I stand here right now" and thanks for giving him the chance to pilot the FranXX. Zero Two reaffirms that she is his partner and she alone. Zero Two then unzips his uniform revealing a pulsating blue klaxosaur tumor growing out of Hiro's chest. She reminds him that non of her partners have ridden with her more than 3 times. She ask him if it hurts, and relates that the pain must be unbearable, however she states "it looks beautiful". Zero Two poses Hiro that if he wants "off this ride" now's his chance. Unyielding, He declares "I'll ride with you!". Zero Two becomes overjoyed and begins laughing and dancing by the lake.

Episode 6: Darling in the FranXX!
Before the defence of the kissing, Hiro waves at Zero Two as she exits the armoury, she glances back at him but seeing him with she continues to go her way.

During the battle, Zero Two and Hiro overlook the battle from the Strelizia atop the main pipeline. Zero Two contrast the tactics and precision of Squad 26 to the rest of Squad 13. Hiro asks her if they're being pushed back, Zero Two retorts that they're belly hanging in there. She expresses that she's starting to get an "itch" and that she wants to join the fight already. Hiro asks her why she fights klaxosaurs, she gets so much fun out of it he's been wondering if there's a reason. Zero Two deeply ponders the question and replies "Because I'm a monster, maybe?". Zero Two return the question to him and Hiro plainly answers that he wants to protect Papa and the adults in the plantations as if it was his "entire purpose in life. Zero Two is disappointed in his answer calling it lame. Hiro then proposes that if squad needs help they should move out, Zero Two concurs and the Strelizia flies into battle, massacring swathes of klaxosaurs. In the midst of combat, Hiro's tumor intensifies causing his engorged veins to show through his battle suit and spread to face. This causes their performance to slump and lag, prompting Zero Two to rile him up, this proves effective as Hiro pulls himself together and continues the fight.

Once all the Conrad-klaxosaurs have been annihilated, Squad 13 shifts priority to Target Beta which has taken a humanoid-form. Squad 13 immoblizes the titan while Hiro flies the Strelizia into the sky. He begins to pour what energy he has left into a downward thrust in hopes of killing it. The attack seems successful causing Target Beta to collapse. Hiro appears to have died causing the Strelizia to deactivate and go into Stampede.

In his death-like state, Hiro is greeted by Naomi. He subsequently see Zero Two, he wonder's if she came to say goodbye to him, however, Zero Two sadly turns away mirroring the beginning of the episode. Hiro wakes up and sees Zero Two desperately trying to fight of Target Beta. He tries to tell Zero Two not to fight it alone, in doing so, she'll cause her own death. Hiro then remembers that Zero Two is a monster and that she's been all alone. Zero Two can't "fly" by herself after all. Zero Two lets out a groan in pain then a newly revived Hiro grabs her from behind and calms her down. Zero Two eyes return from red to cyan and ask if it's really him. Hiro reminds her that he is her partner, and that he'll never leave her alone. The Strelizia's Iron Maiden form is then restored.

After the battle, Zero Two is leaning on Hiro as he walks them out of the Strelizia. Their exit is met with cheers and applause the parasites and everyone else, including Ichigo.

Ichigo [Code: 015]
Zero Two finds Ichigo bossy (even annoying). However, she does acknowledge the tension between them stemming from Ichigo's unrequited love towards Hiro. Ichigo is grateful that Zero Two saved her life and those of her squad, however, she also harbors resentment towards Zero Two due to her attitude and relationship with Hiro. This results in altercations between the two whenever they come face to face. Over the course of the series, Ichigo becomes saddened which progresses toward depression due to her desire to be with Hiro combined with the fact that they are incompatible and Zero Two's attachment to him.

Episode 1: Alone and Lonesome
Ichigo first sees Zero Two carrying Hiro out of the deactivated Strelizia. Nana introduces her to Zero Two's background and reputation.

Episode 2: What It Means To Connect!
Ichigo is initially grateful to Zero Two for saving her life and that of her squad. However she becomes visually uneasy when Zero Two begins having breakfast with Hiro, sitting on his lap, and referring to him as "darling".

Episode 4: Flap Flap!
Zero Two takes delight in the fact that Ichigo can't have her "darling". During the battle with the klaxosaur, for a split second, Strelizia (Zero Two) gives Delphinium (Ichigo) a prideful grin knowing it pains Ichigo that Hiro chose Zero Two over her, even if that choice meant certain death.

Episode 5: Your Thorn, My Badge!
Ichigo was conversing with Hiro. Once they arrive at the dining room, Zero Two steals Hiro away while Ichigo looks on in desperation. Ichigo is uneasy about Zero Two and Hiro sitting together, acting like a real couple. She ponders this loneliness through the reflection of her tea. She discovers that Zero Two is going to start living at the birdcage as well and immediately inquires from Nana who confirms this latest information. Seeing as it can't be help, Ichigo accepts the reality and sees to Zero Two's accommodations. While giving Zero Two a lecture about the rules and how things are done, Zero Two brushes her off as bossy and complains as she'd rather stay in the same room as Hiro.

Though it pained her to admit it,   Ichigo admitted that they need the Strelizia for the mission a fter the briefing. Even if it meant Hiro riding with Zero Two.

Later that night, Ichigo and Zero Two sneak out. Ichigo had pulled Zero Two aside to give her a stern taking to. Ichigo ordered her to stay in line during the plantation kissing, Zero Two brushes her off for being bossy again! As she begins to leave, Ichigo grabs her wrist and Zero Two shoots her a cold stare. Ichigo bows her head pleading for Zero Two not to push Hiro too hard. Zero Two swiftly rips her hand from Ichigo's grasp and tells her that "darling" (Hiro) was the one who said he wanted ride with her. Ichigo softly accepts that but begs her not to put heavy burden on him, her eyes begin to swell tears. Vexed, Zero Two asks Ichigo if she wants her to give Hiro to him, she reminds her that they tried to ride and they didn't work. Ichigo's sadness quickly turns to strife and exclaims that she leave her out of it. Zero Two says that she should stay out of it. Ichigo warns her that Hiro could die! Zero Two nonchalantly retorts that if he does, then he didn't amount to much. The situation escalates. An enraged Ichigo calls her heartless and inhuman followed by a slap so hard the sound reverberates throughout the forest and damages Zero Two headband, knocking it clean off! Likewise, an enraged Zero Two stares at Ichigo revealing her eyes and horns are now glowing in a malevolent red. She asks Ichigo what is "human" to you people. The sight frightens Ichigo bringing her to tears and forces her to run back to the birdcage into the arms of Goro. Rain begins to fall and Zero Two calms down.

Episode 6: Darling in the FranXX!
Tension between Ichigo and Zero Two remains present from the previous episode. Ichigo sees Zero Two exiting the armoury. Zero Two glances back at her and Hiro then goes her merry way. Throughout the whole episode Zero Two and Ichigo seem to ignore each others presence. When the Strelizia is in danger or when Ichigo calls out, Ichigo only refers to them as Hiro alone and not Zero Two. Despite this, Ichigo noticed that the Strelizia's performance had been gradually diminishing. She begins to suspect that Hiro may be dying due to riding with Zero Two a 3rd time. Ichigo orders Hiro and the Strelizia to fall back, Zero Two retorts that she is being bossy again. The Strelizia shuts down then Target Beta pounds it, sending the Strelizia crashing into the wall. Target Beta then begins violently pounding the wall with the Strelizia. It reverts from it's iron maiden form back Stampede. Ichigo then becomes hysterical and breaks into tears believing Hiro has died at the hands of Zero Two.

Goro [Code: 056]
Goro once commented that she wastes her "good looks" with her vicious eating habits. He seems to have a form of animosity towards Zero Two (mainly stemming from her dynamic with Ichigo).

In "Episode 1: Alone and Lonesome!", Zero Two saves Goro and Ichigo from the klaxosaur attack during the welcoming ceremony. Zero Two (Stampede) interrupts the klaxosaur in the nick of time before it was just about to vaporize the Delphinium before it's maiden voyage.

In "Episode 5: Your Thorn, My Badge", Goro is visually disturbed by the sight of Zero Two feeding Hiro breakfast and acting like a couple. He is also astonished (or envious) that Hiro and Zero Two were holding hands. Something he laments about later on when comforting Ichigo in the rain. During the confrontation between Zero Two and Ichigo in the forest, Goro was listening in from an unknown location. He later tells Ichigo that "he heard everything".

Miku [Code: 390]
Miku's 1st impression of Zero Two is that she's not human. Not with those horns on her head.

In "Episode 1: Alone and Lonesome!", Zero Two saves Futoshi and the other Parasites from the klaxosaur attack during the welcoming ceremony. After the battle he looks on as she not only exits the Strelizia but that she is also carrying an unconscious Hiro out with her. He inferred that Hiro piloted the Strelizia

In "Episode 2: What it Means to Connect!", Miku thinks that Zero Two and Hiro make a good couple which makes Ichigo uneasy.

In "Episode 3: Fighting Puppet!", Zero Two (Strelizia) and Mitsuru rescue Miku (Argentea) and Zorome after their mission underground goes awry. The timely arrival and entrance of the Strelizia allows them to escape while the Strelizia goes on a massacre.

Zorome [Code: 666]
Zero Two doesn't think much of Zorome. Zorome on the other hand exhibits a form of envy towards Zero Two and Hiro. Zorome is very verbal about this, taking a toll on Miku. It may be inferred that Zorome would like to ride with Zero Two and/or get the same treatment she gives Hiro. Zorome also doesn't like it when she obviously ignores him.

In "Episode 2: What it Means to Connect!", Zorome hits on her during breakfast. She subsequently wipes the honey from her hand onto Zorome's uniform. Much to the shock of Zorome! Zorome also doesn't like it when she obviously ignores him.

In "Episode 3: Fighting Puppet!" Zero Two rescues him, Goro (Delphinium), and Futoshi (Argentea) during their mission into the underground that went wrong. After being ambushed by a swarm of klaxosaurs and a giant version of the same appeared, Zero Two in the Strelizia, drops onto the giant klaxosaur killing with downward thrust. Zorome is in awe of Zero Two's daring rescue and and is visually relieved.

In "Episode 5: Your Thorn, My Badge!", Zorome is jealous of Zero Two and Hiro acting like a couple and wishes he had a girl like that. Later though, he complains that Zero Two is in the boy's wing. Hiro quickly grabs Zero Two's hand, to the astonishment (and maybe Envy) of both Zorome and Goro.

Kokoro [Code: 556]
Kokoro finds her a "strange person and wonders if she likes sweets".

In "Episode 3: Fighting Puppet!" Zero Two rescues her, Ichigo (Delphinium), and Miku (Argentea) during their mission into the underground that went wrong. After being ambushed by a swarm of klaxosaurs and a giant version of the same appeared, Zero Two in the Strelizia, drops onto the giant klaxosaur killing it on landing. She initially believes that Hiro is the stamen till Mitsuru orders them that he'll hold them off till she and the others can evacuate. After the retrieval of the deactivated Strelizia, she is visibly worried when she sees Zero Two emerge from the FranXX but not Mitsuru, who was at a near-death state in the cockpit.

In "Episode 4: Flap Flap!", Zero Two rescues Kokoro (Genista) and Futoshi from the giant razor-like snake klaxosaur, after the mission went wrong and HQ sacrificed them so that the carrier can escape.

In "Episode 5: Your Thorn, My Badge!", Zero Two takes Futoshi's seat at breakfast beside Hiro. Kokoro uses this opportunity to get closer to Futoshi by inviting him to sit beside her at the girl's table. She is later seen feeding Futoshi in the same manner Zero Two feeds Hiro.

Futoshi [Code: 214]
In "Episode 1: Alone and Lonesome!", Zero Two saves Futoshi and the other Parasites from the klaxosaur attack during the welcoming ceremony. After the battle he looks on as she not only exits the Strelizia but that she is also carrying an unconscious Hiro out with her. He inferred that Hiro piloted the Strelizia

In "Episode 2: What it Means to Connect!", Futoshi is amazed that she in "nothing" like the rumours.

In "Episode 3: Fighting Puppet!", Zero Two rescues him and Kokoro (Genista) from the underground klaxosaur swarm.

In "Episode 4: Flap Flap!",  Zero Two rescues Futoshi and Kokoro (Genista) from the giant razor-like snake klaxosaur, after the mission went wrong and HQ sacrificed them so that the carrier can escape.

In "Episode 5: Your Thorn, My Badge!", Zero Two takes Futoshi's seat at breakfast beside Hiro. Forcing him to sit with Kokoro at the girls table. This turns out benefit Futoshi as well as Kokoro feeds him, mimicking the relationship of Zero Two and Hiro.

Ikuno [Code: 196]
Ikuno notes that she is a klaxosaur hybrid. Ikuno also chagrins and the fact she has a single digit code.

In "Episode 3: Fighting Puppet!", Ikuno is visibly hurt that Mitsuru would rather ride with Zero Two after their failure to launch the Chlorophytum. She is later seen angrily watching Mitsuru blame her for the failure and proposes that Zero Two take him on as her official partner.

In "Episode 4: Flap Flap!", Zero Two rescues Ikuno (Chlorophytum) and Mitsuru from the giant razor-like klaxosaur after HQ sacrifices them in order for the carrier to escape.

Mitsuru [Code: 326]
In "Episode 3: Fighting Puppet!", Misturu volunteers to be the temporary partner. The result leaves him bloody, broken, and on the brink of death.

In "Episode 4: Flap Flap!", he becomes fearful of her, stating anyone that willingly wanted to pilot with her was insane. It is not known what actually happened to him, but from his prospective she tried to 'devour his body, blood, and soul'. And while she was doing it, she was smiling.

In "Episode 5: Your Thorn, My Badge", it is revealed that Mitsuru's developed a drug addiction as result of his failure to match up to Hiro and inability to ride with Zero Two and the Strelizia.

Nana
Nana is Zero Two's handler from HQ, and Papa. She transmits orders to Zero Two and whether or not she has the proper authorizations. She and Zero Two have a passive aggressive (or just aggressive) relationship, however, they are particularly chummy on occasion. They share a degree of respect for each other as they make concessions that others do not enjoy. Zero Two is known to ignore or directly disobey order from Nana when she sees fit to do so.

Episode 1: Alone and Lonesome!
Zero Two ask's Nana whether there's an ocean in Plantation 13. To which Nana asks why just can't take a simple shower. Zero Two licks herself, expressing she hates how she "tastes". Later after disembarking into Plantation 13, Zero Two disappears unknown to Nana's knowledge. Zero Two is then shown mocking Nana as she plays with her cap then tossing it aside.

Later, Nana reprimands Zero Two for running off and ordering her not to mix with the Parasites. After the klaxosaur attack, Nana informs the Parasites of Zero Two's background and reputation.

Episode 2: What it Means to Connect!
Nana commands Zero Two to sit at the table she's "supposed" to be sitting at, instead of mixing with the Parasites. Later in the elevator Nama tell Zero Two not to mess with the parasite as she is "Too much for them to handle". During the discussion of Hiro's parasite promotion, Nana vetoes Zero Two's proposal informing her that HQ hasn't authorized the use of Strelizia.

Episode 3: Fighting Puppet!
While Nana is coordinating the seemingly successful mission in the super pipe, Zero Two suddenly appears in the room and begins to mock them that it's not over yet. Zero Two was right as a swarm of Conrad-class klaxosaurs emerge from the shadows of the underground and begin to overwhelm the FranXXs. As the situation becomes dire, Zero Two continues to jest Nana into letting her pilot the Strelizia with Hiro, but Nana does not bend. Zero Two and Nana begin to butt heads, before the tension escalates any further Mitsuru intervenes and volunteers to pilot the Strelizia, being the only available "official" stamen. Nana asks Zero Two whether she could ride with Mitsuru. Zero Two persists that she will only ride with Hiro. She then look over to Hiroto coax his affirmation, but Hiro tells Zero Two to ride with Mitsuru. He states that he'd rather have his teammates saved than be able to pilot a FranXX. Nana then coordinates the deployment of the Strelizia.

Later, Zero Two (Strelizia) decides to go on a rampage rather than comply with Nana's order to withdraw. Nana then deploys a team to "retrieve" the Strelizia and her Stamen. After the retrieval, Nana grimly looks at the sight of Zero Two as she exits Strelizia without her stamen.

Quotes
" Oh, Found one! "- Quoted from Episode 1, when she spots the lake next to Hiro from the carrier.

"I'm always alone too, thanks to these horns."- Quoted from Episode 1 on  Hiro's loneliness.

"If you don't belong here, just build a place where you do."- Quoted from Episode 1 when she initially meets  Hiro.

"Your taste makes my heart race." - Quoted from the scene during Episode 1 when she first licks the cheeks of  Hiro  on their first encounter after grabbing and falling along with him near the water.

"Found you, my darling."- Quoted from the ending scene of Episode 1 where she drops Hiro outside the cockpit of the Strelizia and happily smiles at him.

"Here, this is nice and sweet!" - Quoted from the Episode 2 pouring honey over  Hiro's  breakfast.

"I feel like I'm gonna suffocate in here." - Quoted from Episode 2 while she's riding the elevator.

"You are just like me." - Quoted from the first encounter between Hiro and Zero Two and afterwards before their first flight on the Strelizia together, when she extends her hand again to him during Episode 2.

"I like the look on your eyes, it makes my heart race." - Quoted from the dialogue before their first flight together when she sees Hiro's tears during Episode 2.

"I'll let you have him this one time. Go for it!" - Quoted from Episode 2 when she "allows" Ichigo to have Hiro ride her.

"Once we die, we'll only be a statistic. It won't matter what we're called." - Quoted from Episode 3 while she's out onto the ledge.

"Just look at this lifeless city. There are no skies or oceans here. It's a one-way street to nowhere. A dead end life." - Quoted from Episode 3 when she's overlooking the inner city.

"Darling, wanna run away with me? I can get you out of here." - Quoted from Episode 3 when she was with Hiro on the balcony overlooking the city.

“Do you think I’m a monster too?”- Quoted from Episode 4 when she confronted Hiro in the bath.

"How can I leave after hearing that?" - Quoted from Episode 4 when she's about to escape.

"Nobody's ever said such embarrassing things to me before!" - Quoted from Episode 4 after running away from her Guards and towards Strelizia together with Hiro.

" You wanna ride me, huh? " - Quoted from Episode 4 after Hiro's confession.

" Of course you can do this. WE can do this! " - Quoted from Episode 4, Zero Two reaffirming Hiro he can pilot a FranXX it as long as it's "them".

"Weaklings die, Big deal." - Quoted from Episode 5, Zero Two saying that to a member of Squad 26 that she doesn't care about his partner dying

"Sure, he could. But that'd mean he didn't amount to much." - Quoted from Episode 5, Zero Two concerning the possibility Hiro dies.

" What is "human" to you people?  " - Quoted from Episode 5 after Ichigo slaps her and vilifies Zero Two for not being "human".

" Your partner is me, and me alone  " - Quoted from Episode 5, Zero Two responding to Hiro thanking her for giving him the opportunity to pilot a FranXX.

" What'll it be, if you want off this ride, now's your chance.  " - Quoted from Episode 5, Zero Two asking Hiro if he's still willing to ride with her even if it means leads to his death.

" Dar... ling.  " - Quoted from Episode 6, Zero Two being comforted by a newly revived Hiro

Etymology

 * Her codename can be read as "oni": "o" from "0" which can be written as "○" in kanji and  ni  from 2. Oni means "demon," a reference to pair of horns on her head.

Trivia

 * Zero Two wears pink panties.
 * Zero Two is the only known member of the APE Special Forces Unit (so far).
 * Zero Two demonstrates impressive agility performing somersaults and flips then landing on her feet everytime as if she was lighter than a feather.
 * Only known character to be a klaxosaur hybrid, and to have red horns.
 * Zero Two is the only known character to lick.
 * Zero Two eats with her hands, never seen to be using cutlery.
 * Characters licked by Zero Two:
 * Herself = She doesn't like how she tastes.
 * Hiro = She said he tastes like danger.
 * Ichigo = She said she tastes sweet.
 * Zero Two and Hiro have the same eye color.
 * Zero Two has a sweet tooth. She is almost always seen with her lollipop. She also pours inordinate amounts of honey on her meals.
 * Zero Two has wishes to see the ocean and would like to taste it, her wish is fulfilled in Episode 7: Shooting Star Moratorium, where she finally swims in it and licks herself. Zero Two is also fascinated by rain.
 * Zero Two is Hiro's first kiss.
 * Her theme is "Awakening" by Tachibana Asami.
 * Zero Two strongly resembles Lala Satalin Deviluke. A female heroine from another Kentaro Yabuki manga, To-Love-Ru (2008):
 * They both have pink hair.
 * They both have green eyes.
 * They both are inhuman [Lala is an alien / Zero Two is a human-klaxosaur hybrid]
 * They both have devilish features; Lala as a Succubus has tail and wings; whereas Zero Two has cute red devil horns.
 * They are both devoted to the male protagonist.
 * They share the same voice actress Tomatsu Haruka. Her other works include: Yuuki Asuna (Sword Art Online), Orimoto Kaori (Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Come wa Machigatteiru), Eina Chūru (Is It Wrong to Try to Pick Up Girls in a Dungeon?), Mashiba Mitsuki (Working!!!), and Yasuhisa Nashiro (Tokyo Ghoul).

Gallery
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