Hiro

Hiro (ヒロ) is the main protagonist of DARLING in the FRANXX series. He was known as a prodigy Parasite with the codename "016" of Thirteenth Plantation, where he's now officially partnered in a boy-girl pair with Zero Two to pilot a FRANXX called Strelizia as of Episode 7. He is in love with Zero Two.

Appearance
Hiro has a standard "slim" male physique with black, shaggy hair and rich blue eyes. His checkered past has left him with an emphatic expression on his face, despite his personality.

In Episode 5, he had a blue tumor-like mutation in his chest, caused by piloting with Zero Two, which increased his yellow blood cell counts, the polar opposite of what happened when Zero Two rode with other parasites. In Episode 06, this mutation grew larger due to piloting with Zero Two again, but Hiro was able to overcome the mutation using his willpower, and completely got rid of it, although a scar was left on his chest. In Episode 14 he's seen having fanged teeth just like Zero Two's due to his "saurification". In Episode 17 it's revealed he's started developing blue horns on his forehead.

Personality
As a child, Hiro was jovial and hopeful, giving names to other kids and to himself as well, when codes are the only identity and nickname given to them. This earned him fame among other children, even those in other squads. He even spent time teaching other children, especially Ichigo, about stars. During his time at the Garden, Hiro was also curious, asking himself a lot of questions, and becoming frustrated that whenever he asked the adults, they would never give an answer.

A former star student of the academy, Hiro's inability to pilot FRANXX has left his hopes low, even to the point of choosing to leave Cerasus until his former partner Naomi encouraged him to stay.

Losing the ability to pilot left him feeling that his life had little worth, to the extent that he is more than willing to ride with Zero Two even if it means death. However, this wish of his came to an end after he survived his third ride with Zero Two in episode 6. It was then that he realized there was more to life than just piloting a FRANXX.

Ever since then Hiro has been thinking about Zero Two and her personal life, in helping her to be stronger and to get closer to her. Hiro is shown to fell in love with her, even before he was discharged from the Garden.

His sortie in episode 6 was also the first time someone has survived more than 3 sorties with Strelizia, disproving the "partner killing" rumor.

History
''As children, 016 gives himself the name Hiro and 015 the name Ichigo. Mitsuru stands with his ball. Other children begin asking for names as well. Though they wait for their parents, they never return to them. Mitsuru shyly asks for a name too. Hiro smiles back at him.''

Goro tells Ichigo that her bangs have grown at that it will be hard to see. Ichigo says that he asked for another stuffed toy and asks what they asked for. Goro writes a letter asking for a hairpin. When he's about to give it to her, he finds that Hiro is already putting one on her.

Smiling, Hiro tells a group of children that he's been chosen to represent them. They stare back in admiration. Present-day Mitsuru tells himself to stop looking at him with admiration. He shouts that he's a traitor, causing him to wake up.

Zero Two narrates that her small room was the entirety of her world. Hiro narrates that the Garden was the entirety of his. Zero Two adds that, one day, she went outside for the first time. Though Zero Two says that she can't forget, Hiro says he'd forgotten completely. She says she can remember the vastness of the outside and how warm the hand she held was, or the promise they made.

Zero Two wonders who she is, though she never crossed her mind as a child. She was trapped in her room for as long as she could remember. Though she felt like I had even older memories, but she soon forgets about them.

When a person enters, Zero Two says that she was probably a stand-in-mother. She would bring her food and pet her head. One day, for the first and only time, she brought her something that wasn't food. Though she tries to eat and break it at first, her "mother" flips open the page and Zero Two begins looking at it.

Is is amazed by its bright colors and different shapes. Though it had words, she couldn't read. After that day, she never showed up again. The book was her first "pretty thing." She was sure the outside world surely had many more. She adds that she was half right. She is unshackled and dragged out of her room.

Hiro too wonders who he is. In contrast, he says that he always thought about it. He was in the Garden for as far back as he could remember. They lived there to become parasites who would fight for Papa and the others. All children were referred to by their code numbers. The lower the number, the higher the child's potential as parasite. The double-digits up to 099, especially the teens in particular, were given special treatment. Hiro was one of them, and he was told he was special, unlike everyone else.

When Hiro tosses a ball, it rolls into Ichigo's feet. She sits crying and doesn't look up. Ichigo wonders if she's strange, since everyone else has stopped showing emotion, though she continues to cry and says she wants to be like everyone else. She asks if she should get more injections. Hiro says that their codes are in the teens, so they were different from the others to begin with. She says she doesn't want that and being different is scary.

Hiro sits beside her and asks if she wants a name since he gave himself one. He says his name and says she'll feel better if she has a name like him, so he names her "Ichigo." He says that having a name makes it feel okay to be different. She is amazed and asks if he can name the others. He begins naming the other children, including Mitsuru.

Two adults enter and says that they can't change their designation without permission. Hiro politely asks what the problem is. The adults realize he's one of the teens and simply tells him not to just do as he please before leaving. Hiro thinks that they never answered his questions and no other children ever asked any.

The children watch as the adults pack up one of the beds. Hiro narrates that children were gradually disappearing from the Garden at regular intervals, though the adults wouldn't tell them why. Hiro was designated a special research subject and underwent tests at the Lab all by himself. If he did well, he was given a reward. One day, after testing, he witnesses Zero Two being dragged along for testing.

Dr. FRANXX looks over her and notes that she's leagues better than all of their past specimens and can't believe she developed such a human form. A laser is centered on her palm and when it fires, she screams in pain. Dr. FRANXX is amazed at how quickly her skin regrows.

Hiro asks an adult who "the girl with horns" is. She becomes frustrated and scolds him for always asking questions and orders him to his room. There, he decides to find out for himself who she is.

After testing, he tries to sneak off, but is stopped by an adult. He fails in his other attempts and runs out of ideas. Outside, he notices the girl trying to get her book back from an adult.

He scales a large tree to look through her window. Zero Two manages to take the book back and the woman gives up. For a reason unknown to Hiro, he is overjoyed to see her happy.

As Mitsuru walks off with an adult Hiro asks if he's going to the lab and if there is something wrong. Mitsuru says he's going to get an Elixir Injection, as he won't be able to stay if he doesn't. Mitsuru says he wants to become a parasite with him. He asks if he comes back alive, if he would pilot with him. He happily agrees and the two make a pinkie promise.

Afterwards, Hiro, Goro, and Ichigo quietly walk back together. They find that 494 was taken away. Another notes that it was 367 before that. The three look on, scared, until Hiro says they have to do something. Goro says that Papa and the others made the decision and Ichigo says there's nothing they can do. An adult suddenly appears to collect Hiro for testing. Though Hiro asks where the other kids went, but the man ignores his question and tells him to get ready.

As Hiro undergoes testing, an adult notes that is sensitivity is troubling and may affect the other children. Dr. FRANXX observes him and a man asks if they should increase his yellow blood cell dose. Dr. FRANXX says no because he is interested in what kind of parasite a child like him will grow up to be.

After finishing his testing and receiving candy, he leaves the room alone. He hears screaming and goes to investigate. He rushes over to find Zero Two undergoing painful testing with a group of adults surrounding her. Hiro is horrified and falls to the ground. A man suddenly appears and orders him to return to the Garden. He asks him to stop causing her pain. The man says it's none of Hiro's business and pulls him away.

Frustrated with his situation and unwilling to watch the girl suffer anymore, Hiro packs a portable searchlight and scaled one of the trees near her cell. She had just gone through testing and is now curled up on the floor. Hiro shouts and slings his searchlight at the window. Shattered glass carpets the floor and wind floods the room. Though Zero Two is initially aggressive, she sees his tears and begins to crawl towards his outstretched hand. When they both put their weight on the branch, it breaks and they fall to the ground. Hiro loses consciousness.

Zero Two carries Hiro through the snow. She is amazed at the outside world and looks around curiously. When she trips and drops Hiro, she notices a group of mice and begins to try and catch them. Hiro wakes and finds Zero Two eating a mouse. When he tries to get her to spit it out, she bites him. To get her to stop, he begins petting her hair. This reminds her of her "mother" and she lets go. He calls her mean and she appears to be ashamed. He realizes that she can't understand him but introduces himself anyway. Though he asks her name, she can't answer, and he sees on her ankle that her code is "002." He thinks of a name, first thinking "Oni," then "Zero Two." He thinks they're both bad, but she begins to try and say "Zero Two." When she continues to say it, he says he should have thought of a better name but begins to call her that himself.

Zero Two notes that she didn't understand his words, but knew his voice called to her, saw new things with her, and walked with her. He makes her shoes.

Hiro hands her one of his candies, but she doesn't understand with it is. He tells her to go "Aah," and slips it into her mouth. She enjoys it and Hiro eats his own, enjoying her reaction. She shows him her book, "The Beast and the Prince," and she notes that the pictures are pretty. As he begins reading, a group of adults appear, looking for them. The two hide and Hiro tries to calm her down. One man asks what they should do with 016, and the other answers that 002 takes priority and to kill him if he resists. Hiro pulls her closer and promises to protect her.

The two continue to flee from the adults and they eventually fall into the freezing water.

The two sit under a tree and Hiro finishes reading as Zero Two lies against him. He tells her that it's sad they can't get married. When she ties to say "married," Hiro explains what marriage is. When he looks at her, she smiles back. He says that they should get going, but she falls when she tries to stand. He had scraped her knee and blue blood oozes from the cut. He looks for something to bandage it, but is forced to lick it instead. He explains that animals lick their wounds to heal them.

With him kneeling before her, she confuses his pose with the prince proposing. He asks if it's marriage. Smiling, he says that they will once they escape. He tells her he wants to be with her forever too and become her darling. She begins crying and blushing and hugs him close. They look up and notice that they are under mistletoe. They are suddenly interrupted by a group of adults. Though Hiro tries to protect her, he is hit with the butt of a gun and falls to the ground bleeding.

After that, their memories are erased. Hiro forgets his promise to Mitsuru and stops naming other children. Zero Two swears to become human since if she were like him, they could be together.

He had come from the same orphanage as Naomi, Ichigo and Goro and later became Naomi's partner. They both failed the exam and Naomi was forced to leave Plantation 13. Hiro, however, was given permission to stay, which he declined. When they're meant to get on a transport to leave, she prevents him from getting on board by throwing her suitcase at him. A Klaxosaur appeared just when Naomi's transport left. It was hit but she was reported to have survived and moved to a hospital.

In Episode 6, Hiro faints during combat against a Guten-berg class Klaxosaur and was assumed dead by his teammates. In his mind, he saw visions of Naomi standing under a white tree, questioning him whether he's satisfied. Willing to accept his death, Hiro said "yes". Naomi then smiled and replied: "liar". She then disappeared. In her place now stood a sad Zero Two, who then turned her back on him and walked away. Surprised, Hiro chases her. He then wakes up, and upon realizing Zero Two is incapable of defeating the Gutenberg-class Klaxosaur alone, Hiro pulls himself up. His will to protect her was now so strong that his tumor shrank. Dragging his banged up body through the floor, he wrapped his arms around Zero Two. A brief moment of silence then followed as Strelizia reactivated. Witnessing the miracle that's just happened, his teammates regained their hope and creates an opening for Strelizia to strike the Klaxosaur's core. Strelizia's triumph during the mission let to Hiro becoming Zero Two's official partner and thus, a true parasite.

In Episode 12, Zero Two went berserk causing the connection between her and Hiro to break. He was then traumatized when a blood red Zero Two strangled him, sucking his life in the process. Hiro then sees visions of a small girl with red skin and long horns in a coat, and remembered that he met her before and Zero Two confesses that she is a monster in disguise when the scene fades to black. He then experienced flashbacks in episode 13 (see Relationship - Zero Two)

As Naomi and Hiro try to connect, their positive pulse and P-Factor drops and they're times out and they fail.

Episode 01: Alone and Lonesome
Hiro sits up and finds that Ichigo messaged him. She says that their breifing ended. She tells him to show up for the welcoming ceremony the next day. Though it's sad about Naomi, not to be stubborn since he can stay. He hears a noise and goes to investigate.

He finds blood on the dome and notices a bird lying on the ground. When he tries to pick it up, it weakly flies away. Zero Two's plane flies above and she says that she "found one."

Hiro follows the trail of blood and hears chirping, noting that it's still alive. He comes to a lake and says he never knew it was there. He notices clothes on a tree and wonders if it's a parasite's, though it's not like theirs. He picks up the underwear and notices someone swimming. He notices that she's naked and turns away, but when he looks again she's gone. He runs into the water, thinking that she drowned. She suddenly jumps out of the water with a fish in her mouth.

Zero Two spits the fish out and wipes her mouth. She leans in and sniffs him. He suddenly comes to his senses and says that she's naked. She walks past him and says that she thought he was dead. He asks if she's a parasite and why she was bathing. She says that she heard ocean water was salty. He says that it isn't the ocean. She says she knows, but it's the most ocean-like place she knows.

She asks if he's going to swim. He says no, and she says that it feels good and, since he was staring so hard, she thought he wanted to swim too. He comes out of the water and explains that he thought she was drowning. He looks away and asks that she puts on clothes. She says he must be a pervert, since he's holding her underwear. He thrusts the underwear towards her and blushes.

Zero Two laughs at his reaction and thanks him for jumping in to save her. She puts her clothes back on and asks if he's a parasite too. He says no, that he can't pilot and dragged his partner down with him. He says he doesn't have a place there. She says she's always alone too, thanks to her horns as she puts her band back on. She tells him to build a place where he does belong and to find another partner, or take on by force. She suddenly licks his cheek and straddles him, causing the bird to fly away.

She says that his taste makes her heart race. It bites and lingers, like the taste of danger. She asks if he would have preferred a kiss. He doesn't understand, so she says it's special. She says that she's taken a liking to him and asks that he be her darling. He asks if she means "partner." She extends her hand and says that his ability's probably still dormant and she can awaken it for him, since he wasn't afraid of her horns.

They're interrupted by 081 who says they were looking for her. He asks why she keeps running off alone. She says there's nothing to do until the next day's welcoming ceremony. He plops her hat on her head and says that, as her partner, he suffers for it. 081 apologizes for Zero Two. Hiro asks what he meant by "partner." He tells him to stay away from her, as she's not the kind of pistil that just anyone can handle.

They begin to walk away. Hiro asks what her name is. She asks if parasites even have names. Her code is 002, so everyone calls her "Zero Two."

A soldier says that they have been issued a search request for him. As he's dragged along, he finds the bloody corpse of the bird.

At Mistiltein, Hachi gives Hiro the official instructions for his return to the orphanage. He says that HQ had given him special permission to remain there and asks him to reconsider. As Hiro leaves the meeting, he finds Naomi crying.

As they wait for their ride, Naomi tells him he should stay and asks if he refused for her. He says that he wouldn't be of any use if he stayed. She says he's running away from his partner and himself. She asks if he remembers how many of their friends disappeared from the orphanage. She tells him that he's lucky to have a chance to stay at all. Crying, she says she'd do anything to stay and asks why he had to be her partner.

After Naomi crosses the bridge, she turns and smiles; telling Hiro to take care since she doesn't think they'll ever meet again. As he runs towards her, she tosses her luggage at him. She says she doesn't need it anymore and to share it. She smiles and thanks him for her name and hopes that he finds a good partner as her door closes.

Zero Two says that she can smell a klaxosaur. In the parasites' FRANXX, they begin the startup ritual. A fog rolls in and the ritual is stalled. Hiro begins to refuse to leave when Naomi's ship is hit by a klaxosaur. The plantation begins firing at the klaxosaur and Strelizia in its stampede mode. Dr. FRANXX notes it's a maho class and Nana orders everyone to evacuate.

Zero Two throws 081 out of her FRANXX and tells Hiro that he's done for. Hiro tries to stop her from piloting alone. She says that it'll start moving again eventually and then everyone will die. She says she's not afraid of death and she has a job to do. He says that he'll pilot with her. She asks if he's prepared to die. He says he's essential dead already and asks to be taken along. She says they're similar and it'd been a long time since she saw a human cry.

She pulls him into her FRANXX and into a kiss, calling him her darling. Dr. FRANXX says that when the negative and postive - male and female factors combine and their hearts become one, the iron maiden will reveal her true form.

Strelizia easily destroys its core and defeats it. They are shocked when it's revealed that Hiro was piloting it. Zero Two drops Hiro to the ground. Nana introduces her as a pistil with the special forces unit APE directly controls. Zero Two looks down and smiles to him, saying she found her darling.

Episode 02: What it Means to Connect
Hachi begins the startup ritual the day after the klaxosaur attack. Papa and the other adults don't attend. Hiro has no recollection of anything that happened after he got in.

At Mistilteinn, Hiro buries a bird. When he returns to the boarding house, he finds Ichigo playing with a cat. She tells him that she heard Naomi was alright and got taken to the hospital. She asks if he was the one piloting Strelizia. He says he doesn't really remember and wants to try again. She says she heard a rumor that her partners could never ride with her more than three times. He says, without being able to pilot, he's as good as dead anyway. Goro comes through the door and tells Hiro to come in quickly as Zero Two is in their mess hall.

Zero Two slathers her food with honey as she sits at a seperate table. When Miku talks bad about her horns, Ichigo scolds her and says she saved them. Ikuno asks if they think she has klaxosaur blood. The stamen watch her as well and Futoshi stuffs break into his arms. Goro says she's ruining her good looks with the way she's eating. Hiro says he can't believe all her injuries healed so quickly.

Zorome says it was a treat to watch her. He "graciously" offers to ride with her and says he could do a lot better than Hiro. She responds by wiping her hand on his shirt. She gets up and sits on the same chair as Hiro. He asks if he really managed to pilot with her. She says yes, and calls him "Darling." The rest of the pilots are unfamiliar with the term.

Nana comes in and announces that she'll be their caretaker, just like she was in the Garden. She says that APE HQ has assigned her to the 13th Plantation Corps. Ichigo asks what's happening with Zero Two, and she says they're awaiting orders from HQ on what to do. She orders Zero Two to move off of his chair.

Hiro asks her to let him ride in her FRANXX again. Smiling, Nana says that it's up to Papa and the rest to give him his orders. She follows Nana out of the room.

In the elevator, Nana says they can't have her running off as she pleases. Smiling, she says she wanted to eat with her darling. She says to avoid making contact with the parasites because she's too much for them to handle.

The stamen look through their lockers. Futoshi eats bread as Mitsuru tries to see what he's doing. Goro says he's amazed Hiro managed to fight that klaxosaur. Hiro says he doesn't remember anything but how it felt. Goro says he's happy he stayed and maybe he's the type that comes through when it matters most. He playfully nudges him for getting a jump on him.

Zorome roughly shoves him and says that he doesn't believe for a second he piloted a FRANXX before them. Miku tries to put on her shorts. Kokoro says that connecting feels so weird and hopes that they get used to it soon, since it's not at all like how their training units felt. Miku fondles her stomach and says it's like your body is being stirred up from the inside. Ikuno tells them not to remind her. Ichigo says it did feel a bit weird, but put her at ease like being one with someone. Kokoro says that she wishes her numbers were as high as hers and that she and Goro must be really compatible.

Hachi says he'll be giving overall strategic instructions, though field decisions will be made by the leader unit, Delphinium. Miku asks why she gets to be leader. Hachi says they will now begin the drill. As they connect, some of the pistils shriek lightly and Zorome scolds Miku. Hachi says that, if two partners are even slightly out of sync, their para-capacity will fluctuate wildly.

The FRANXX pairs manage to connect. Zorome begins showing off and ends up falling over and Delphinium catches them. Ichigo says that the stamen has the initiative when it comes to handling, so consider whether the pistil, who is connected to the FRANXX can keep up. Hiro watches them proceed from his training unit and Zero Two arrives by train.

Nana looks at Hiro's profile and discusses a startup trial in an actual FRANXX. At the Plantation FRANXX Parking Dock, Goro tells Ichigo that he's close to figuring out the trick to connecting. Zero Two walks by and Ichigo asks why it was Hiro. Ichigo says she appreciates her saving them, but wants her to stay away from Hiro.

She walks up and licks her cheek, saying that she's sweet and likes her taste. Goro puts his hand on her head and she swats it off.

Playing ball, Futoshi wonders if they can fight the klaxosaurs like Hiro did. Zorome says that it doesn't count as piloting. Mitsuru says that he heard that Zero Two has the ability to pilot alone and he was taken along on the ride.

Hiro approaches and Zorome kicks a ball at him. He sarcastically apologizes and says he thought he'd dodge it. Zorome continues to mock him, so he walks up and says that he did pilot and they butt heads. Goro and Ichigo rush out and pull them apart. Ichigo gets a call from Nana.

In the conference room, Hachi and Nana announce that Hiro will partake in a mock battle and, depending on how he does, will promote him to parasite. When he is asked to pick a partner, Zero Two volunteers. Ichigo says that she should instead. Mitsuru asks why it should be her since Goro is already her partner.

Nana says that HQ hadn't authorized the use of Strelizia, so Hiro will have to pilot with someone from his own squad. She says that her injuries haven't healed completely anyway. She mockingly asks that she take care of "her darling."

Hachi asks if anyone will volunteers as their opponents and Zorome quickly does. Miku is annoyed at him and asks why he's boss. Glaring at Ichigo, she agrees. Hachi says they'll do it the next day, but Zorome wants to immediately.

Goro cleans his glasses and Hiro apologizes for taking his partner. He receives a call saying they're ready. Goro says not to worry, since she never takes no for an answer.

The parasites along with Hachi, Nana, and Zero Two watch. Ichigo tells him to focus on connecting and she'll take care of the rest. Both Argentea and Delphinium manage to connect. They suddenly disconnect and Ichigo asks what Zero Two did differently. He says they kissed, so she tries it. Afterwards, he says he didn't feel anything.

Argentea suddenly attacks and Zorome says that he doesn't mind taking over as pilot for Delphinium either. This annoys Miku and she says not to hit on other girls and they suddenly stop.

Hachi says that the trust between partners has a direct influence on the handling. Ichigo pilots alone and smashes Argentea against a wall. Hachi announces that, since both FRANXX have been rendered inoperable, the mock battle is over.

Hiro apologizes. Ichigo says not to apologize and "you were awful."

Episode 03: Fighting Puppet
In the Plantation's inner city, Hiro comes out from being scanned to find Ichigo. He asks if anything's wrong and he says that they didn't find anything. She enthusiastically says that she's happy to hear that. Hiro is about to say something else when he is interrupted by Nana calling her and she runs away.

At Cerasus, Goro asks if something happened between Hiro and Ichigo in the cockpit since she was acting weird after the mock battle. Hiro says that she seemed mad when she ran into him earlier as well. Goro says that she always gets too worked up when it comes to him. Since there aren't many with codes in the teens, Hiro, and Ichigo are basically siblings. Goro says that they've always been together with him at their side. He says that it was a miracle that all three of them got assigned from the special class to there. Hiro agrees that they are like siblings.

He asks Goro, since he's her partner, to tell Ichigo that it wasn't her fault. Goro agrees but asks what he's going to do. He says he'll ask if he can ride with Zero Two again. Goro asks if he's heard about the rumours that her partner can only ride with her three times without dying. Hiro says that it is just a rumour. Goro asks if he saw what happened to her last partner, but Hiro interrupts to say that if Zero Two is the only one he can ride with, then he has to ride with her. Since their entire purpose is to pilot the FRANXX and that was the reason they were born.

Hiro practices fighting alone as Zero Two watches from the ceiling. After he leaves, he finds her leaning against a pillar, seeming to be asleep. He walks over and stares at her horns. She calls him a pervert and to stop staring. He is taken back and apologizes. She says it's fine, since Dr. FRANXX says that parasites are better off being a little pervy. He asks how that makes him a pervert. Zero Two stands and says that she was tired of waiting for him and begins walking, telling him to follow. He asks to where.

In a hallway, Zero Two walks through a scanner but Hiro is stopped. He says that children have restrictions on where they can go and almost all of that area is off-limits to them. Zero Two shows her hand which says "S Rank" on it. She walks back and leads him forward, allowing them both to cross.

She brings him to a balcony and he asks how she knew about it. She says that all the plantations have similar designs. Hiro says that he's never set foot in the city before, only ever the Birdcage and a few other facilities. He looks over at her and she asks why he's staring again. He smiles and says that he's trying to think up a name for her, since he's really good at it. She says she's fine with "Zero Two." He asks if it doesn't feel lame to go by a code name.

Zero Two hops over the railing and balances across thin path. She says that, once they die, they'll only be a statistic and it won't matter what they were called. She says in that lifeless city, there are no skies or oceans. It's isolated on a one-way street to nowhere, a dead end of life. Hiro says that it isn't safe and to come back as he extends his hand. She turns and asks if he wants to run away together. She says she can get him out of there. She does flips back to the balcony and says she's just kidding.

Hachi says they received sortie orders from HQ. Nana tells them that the Klaxosaur won't be as big as the one they already saw. Hachi says it's a Conrad-class klaxosaur, a bit smaller than a FRANXX. He says that they're attracted by magma energy reactions and appear in their vicinity. He says, lately, they had been showing up deep in a Level 8 mine on the outskirts and wreaking havoc. Nana says that Strelizia won't be a part of the mission. Because they'll have to defend Plantation 13 by themselves eventually, it will show if they can handle fighting them in the future. Nana says that Ichigo and Goro will have field command.

Goro asks if the mock battle is bothering Ichigo. He tells her to switch gears, since they're going into actual combat. She says she knows and is about to say something, but stops herself and says that she'll do her best as leader and they fistbump.

In the FRANXX, Zorome is excited, but Miku tells him not to go crazy by himself again. All but Mitsuru and Ikuno connect. Hachi asks what's wrong, Mitsuru says that it doesn't look like Ikuno can do it. Ikuno says that he's nearly there and to wait for a second. Mitsuru seems annoyed and tells her not to bother. Hachi announces that Chlorophytum will stay behind.

The three head out to a big hole. They marvel at it and say that they use the pipes to extract magma reserves. Hachi tells them to head down to the 8th floor. He says that, in order to completely neutralize a Klaxosaur, they must extract its core, and shatter it using their customized magma-energy weapons. He tells them to defeat it and the three head in.

Nana asks if Ikuno is not feeling well. She says that that isn't it. Nana says that she has always been a bit unstable and they'll run test the next day to make sure. Mitsuru asks if it could be that they have compatibility issues. Smiling, Nana says that a lot of parasites experience that at first and it isn't grounds to split them up. Mitsuru seems disappointed.

Ichigo says that they have visual on klaxosaur and they're spreading out. They run to it and begin slashing it. Before Zorome can finish it, it attacks and knocks them over. Miku is electrocuted and passes out. Futoshi shoots and exposes its core. Ichigo stabs it.

Zorome tries to check on Miku, as does Ichigo. Many more suddenly fall from the ceiling, so they plan on fleeing. Nana says that they attracted more because they released their magma energy. Zero Two says that she should have sent her from the start. She says they'll die. Hiro is alarmed and tells her to sent himself and Zero Two to help. Hachi refuses and says that he isn't an official stamen, so he can't give permission to board a FRANXX. Zero Two says that the plantation squad is going to be wiped out again and to let her pilot with Hiro. She says she won't be allowed to sortie.

Mitsuru says that he could pilot with her. Nana says that Strelizia is no ordinary FRANXX, if he isn't used to its connect. Mitsuru says that, if Hiro could, there's no way he couldn't. Zero Two says that she wants to ride with Hiro, but he asks that she just go with him. As Mitsuru walks by, he tells Hiro not to come crying to him when he regrets his goody-two-shoes act later because he's going to prove that he can pilot Strelizia better than he did.

Panting, Mitsuru says that he feels like he can do anything. He says that he's amazed changing partners could make such a difference, and he knew he wasn't the problem. He says that he's just as good as Hiro. He tells Zero Two that he wouldn't mind becoming her official partner, to the dismay of Ikuno. Zero Two says that she should go all-out for a bit.

Hachi tells her to stop, as the others had already evacuated. The three FRANXX are surprised what happened. Zorome apologizes to Miku. She says that it doesn't matter if it was his fault, since they're partners. He begins crying. Goro asks what's wrong with Ichigo. She lies and says she got careless after she found that help was coming.

When they retrieve Streliza, Zero Two walks out and smiles and waves at Hiro. Mitsuru is gravely injured and unconscious. She says that he isn't suited to be her darling, only Hiro is.

Episode 04: Flap Flap
Papa announces that Klaxosaur activity has increased, and large ones are showing up everywhere. An APE says the Nines are dealing with them for now, but they still have other tasks to complete. One asks how long Strelizia will be allowed to goof off, now that Hiro's aptitude has been ascertained, they have no reason to leave it there. Marmoset says that it isn't wise to let her mix with tainted stamens any longer. One says that they'll have to ready a new stamen. The Vice Chairman says that there are many parasites who want to team up with her.

Shaking in bed, Mitsuru says that Zero Two is a demon. Futoshi walks in and takes Mitsuru's food away. The other parasites wait outside. Futoshi says that he hasn't touched his food at all. Zorome says that he'd been like that since the battle.

Hiro walks in and asks what happened with Zero Two. He says that she tried to completely devour him. Though it was normal initially, she eventually was out to kill him. When Hiro reaches out to him, he suddenly grabs Hiro's collar and says that she had a smile on her face.

Kokoro yells out to Mitsuru and Futoshi tells him to calm down as he hands the tray to Zorome. Mitsuru says that it'll happen to Hiro too, if he rides with her again. Futoshi holds him back and lays him back into bed where he seems to have fallen unconscious and pants heavily.

Futoshi and Zorome play with a ball as Hiro watches. Ichigo asks if he still wants to ride with her. She says that she can't trust her, especially after what happened to Mitsuru. She says that if the rumors are true, she'll eventually kill him. He says at least he'd be useful. She is frustrated, but says that she's the leader and has to steel herself.

Hiro trains and thinks about Zero Two. The other members of Squad 13 discussed Hiro and Zero Two, as well as the partner killing rumor.

To prepare for the kissing with Plantation 26, Plantation 13 switches to mobile setup. At the FRANXX dock, Hiro sees Zero Two and hides.

Hiro bathes and thinks about the rumor. Zero Two appears and says she found him. She walks into the water and rubs his chest. She asks that he run away with her. Seeing her horns, he gulps. She asks if he thinks she's a monster as well. Before he can respond, an alarm sounds.

They detect a worm-type klaxosaur heading towards Plantation 13. Mitsuru tries to get up, but struggled. Ikuno tells him to grab on, and he refuses. Eventually he leans on her anyway.

Hachi says that they've only detected one, but there may be more in hiding. He tells them to connect.

Zero Two and Hiro go to the command room in their suits. Nana tells them they aren't deploying Strelizia. The FRANXX momentarily stop it, but another one grabs Argentea. Hiro and Zero Two watch and Zero Two says that they should help and asks who landed in the transport plane.

A group of escorts arrive and Nana says to do as they say. She says she's returning to the front lines. A man says they want to leave while the FRANXX are keeping the klaxosaur occupied. When he touches her shoulder, she sends him flying back. They begin aiming their guns at her.

She puts her hand on his cheek and says that she has to go, even though she felt like things would work out with him. When she puts her head against him, she hurts him with her horns. She says "Bye-bye" before following them out.

Episode 05: Your Thorn, My Badge
Cerasus carries out the kissing with Chrysanthemum.

The parasites watch as the plantations connect. Zorome asks what "kissing" is. Miku mocks him, but she doesn't know either. Kokoro points this out. Ikuno explains that it's a transfer of magma fuel reserves from one plantation to another through a large pipe.

Mitsuru explains that the fuel is essential for both the adults and them to live, and FRANXX can't be operated without it. Goro says that, since it's a large-scale transfer of magma energy, it should attract a large number of klaxosaurs. When Futoshi and Zorome seem nervous, Hiro reassures that they have Strelizia, so they'll be fine. Ichigo sadly agrees.

''A grand ceremony was conducted with the utmost solemnity. The children of Plantation 26's FRANXX squad were also in attendance, and they seemed a lot more calm and composed that Plantation 13's.''

The mayor says that the klaxosaurs are sure to attack in great numbers, and the fate of the two plantations rests on their shoulders. He says they're strong and will bring them to victory.

Hiro narrates that being treated like VIPs gave their morale a boost, though they sensed the fierce battle approaching.

At the boarding house, Goro wakes up and puts on his uniform. When he puts his hand on Hiro, he feels that he's burning up. In the bathroom, he asks if he's okay. Hiro cheerfully says that he even feels like training. Goro is reluctant to believe him.

Kokoro says that the previous day's ceremony was so exciting, she couldn't sleep. Miku says that 090 seemed nice. Kokoro asks if she would like to ride with him. She says that it's better than the boys they're stuck with, and tries to get Ikuno's opinion. Ikuno says she doesn't care.

Zorome happily says that it's heartening to be supported by the adults. Futoshi agrees, and Zorome imitates the mayor's speech, making some of the parasites laugh. He finishes that he'll be the one who leads them to victory. Smiling, Ichigo says that Hiro will. Kokoro agrees and says that he shone in the previous battle. Futoshi asks how he's feeling, and Hiro says fine. Futoshi is happy to hear this, and Miku says that the rumors about Zero Two weren't true. Ikuno says that maybe he's extremely compatible with her, saddening Ichigo.

Hiro thanks them, and says that he had a hard time keeping up with everything happening, but their support let them win. Hiro happily asks if he can let him fight as part of the team. Goro observes him suspiciously.

Zorome becomes annoyed and tells him not to get cocky, since he only got through one time. Goro asks if he has to be a spoilsport. Hiro stands and tells him he'll do his best to not be a burden. He extends his hand and asks that they keep fighting together. Zorome is taken back, but tells him to keep it up as he shakes his hand. As Miku teases him, Mitsuru becomes angry and leaves. Kokoro notices him walk out as Zorome says that he's the team's ace pilot.

At 7, Futoshi announces that it's breakfast. As they walk to the dining area, Ichigo stops Hiro and pulls on his collar, causing Hiro to recoil. She is saddened by his reaction and explains that it was bent. She smiles and asks when he will take care of himself. She tells him she was amazed he realized what she was going for in the last battle.

As they tease each other, they enter the mess hall. Zero Two runs over and pulls him away. She sits in Futoshi's seat, to the stamens' disdain. Ichigo tells them to take their seats so they can prey. Kokoro invites Futoshi to sit beside her.

Kokoro prats that Papa never thirst and that his heart be filled with peace for eternity. Though everyone bows their head in prayer, Zero Two pours honey over her food. As they eat, Zero Two begins feeding Hiro. Goro looks uncomfortable, and Zorome says that he wants to try something like that. Goro asks why he doesn't ask Miku then. He says that he'd rather ask a cute girl, like Kokoro. He notices that she is feeding Futoshi, to his annoyance. Miku teases that she's too easily influenced. Ichigo looks down into her cup.

Hiro gives Zero Two a tour, saying that they have fixed times for waking, bathing, and sleeping. Everything's laid out for them, such as their clothes and food. He says that the forest was built to fine-tine the parasites' numbers. She asks if that's why there's a ceiling. He says probably, and that it still rains, even with the ceiling. She doesn't know what rain is, so he explains. She becomes excited and tells him to do it for her. He says that Papa and the others decide when it happens. He asks why she suddenly wanted him to show her around. She bounces on Goro's bed and says that she's going to live there too. Goro and Zorome overhear this. Zorome asks what a girl's doing in the boys' wing. Hiro drags her out. Zorome says that they're holding hands.

Nana says that Zero Two is going to remain there for a while and Papa gave her permission. She asks if Hiro's officially a parasite then. She answers that it's still being considered, but it'll probably happen. She tells her to make Zero Two fell at home.

Hiro wets his face in the bathroom when he notices a spider crawling up its thread. When he looks up, he sees that it caught a moth. He clutches his chest.

When Goro enters his room, he finds Hiro clutching his chest on the floor. Goro asks what's wrong and Hiro says nothing. He looks at his chest to see a blue tumor. He asks if it's been there since he rode with Zero Two. Though he's about to call someone, Hiro stops him.

Nana says that he has abnormal yellow blood cell count and that she's amazed he's alive. Hachi says that it's the opposite reaction to the other parasites that rode with Zero Two. She says that it would be dangerous to let him ride again, but Hachi says that they need Strelizia in the next battle.

Hiro downs a glass of water and chokes on it. Goro asks that he doesn't pilot Strelizia again. Hiro says that it's his decision. Goro becomes angry and says that it could kill him. Hiro says that he feels really alive and that he hadn't for a long time, and that he wants to give it his all on the next mission. Goro asks if he wants him to turn a blind eye, if he's going to keep it from everyone, even Ichigo. He answers yes to all. Goro again becomes angry but turns to find Hiro smiling at him before walking out. Goro sadly calls him an idiot.

Klaxosaurs are detected and an hour later a meeting is held. Hachi explains that there are 100 to 150, and they're expected to arrive at 33 hours from then. He says that 13 will act as back up. Zorome and Miku become annoyed at the other unit as they speak down to them. When Hachi says that Strelizia will be placed closest to the pipe, the other team is horrified.

Nana comes in with Zero Two and Hiro. 090 says that they can't fight alongside Strelizia, since she doesn't care about her allies. She doesn't know what he's talking about. He says that they had a joint operation two years ago where his partner was killed under her fault. Zero Two coldly says that "weaklings die" and that it doesn't matter. He begins to walk closer to her, but Hiro steps between them and promises to keep her from going out of control.

As they walk home, Zorome expresses annoyance at being treated like dead weight. Mitsuru says that they are a makeshift team. Goro stops walking and says that Strelizia shouldn't be part of the mission. Hiro happily replies that they should show them what they're made of. Zorome agrees and tells Goro not to be so timid. Goro asks what Ichigo thinks and she says that they need Strelizia in the next battle. When he looks at Hiro, he notices Zero Two glaring at him.

Goro has trouble sleeping as Hiro seems to writhe in pain. He goes outside and sits on a step sadly. He notices Zero Two and Ichigo walking off together.

Zero Two stands by the lake. She says that everything smells nice after it rains. She asks to make it rain again, but she remembers that he can't. He says that he can't say that for sure yet.

She says that it's where they first met. He says that it's thanks to her that he's standing there and can pilot. As she unzips his shirt, she says that only she is his partner. She says that none of her partners could ever ride with her more than three times. She says that the tumor is painful, but beautiful. She asks if he wants out of the ride. When he says that he'll ride again, she twirls around happily.

Episode 06: DARLING in the FRANXX
A large Klaxosaur approaches with an arrival time of 0210 hours. Nana and Hachi stand in the control room. Hachi says that he never saw a large klaxosaur like it before.

Ichigo washes herself and claps her hands against her face. In their room, Goro asks Hiro is he's going to fight. When he says yes and leaves, Goro calls him a fool.

Kokoro gets dressed as she says that the klaxosaur numbers are higher than estimated and wonders if they'll be okay. Ikuno says that it won't be like anything they've experienced. Miku says that they can just let Squad 26 handle everything, since their "dead weight." Ichigo touches her lips.

The stamen walk through the hallway. Mitsuru says that they can't afford to be too optimistic, given the difference in numbers. Zorome says that he is on their side, so it should be fine. Futoshi says that, Zorome aside, they've got Strelizia. Annoyed at his comment, Zorome says that they won't let squad 26 hog the glory. Mitsuru says that shouldn't be why they're fighting.

The girls come out of the changing room. Ichigo and Goro talk alone and she asks where Hiro is. He says still inside. He again asks her to talk with him, and pushes her towards him as he walks away.

Ichigo tells him that the operation starts late at night. They make small talk about their sleep before Hiro says they should make sure the operation succeeds. He says that being a leader isn't easy, but he knows she's up to the task and that he's counting on her. She says she counts on him lots too. Zero Two walks by and stops briefly before continuing. Ichigo says that she always thought of him as a brother. He agrees and says with Goro too. He pats her on the shoulder and encourages her as he runs to Zero Two.

In their FRANXX, Ichigo says that Hiro sends his regards. She tells him that they're going to save Strelizia for as late as possible.

In their FRANXX, Hachi announces that, beside from the Conrad-class pack, they've also detected a large, tightly packed unit. He gives 090 field command. He tells Strelizia to stay back.

Unit 26 takes out a few klaxosaurs. 090 tells them to deal with them calmly. Four get through and he asks that Squad 13 takes care of them and advises them.

The stamen comment on his attitude and Mitsuru agrees that they are really new to it. As battle begins, Argentea crashes into Chlorophytum causing Zorome and Mitsuru to bicker. Though Genista is almost attacked, Delphinium jumps in and kills the klaxosaur. Kokoro thanks Ichigo. Ichigo asks Zorome to bait the enemy without getting too close, since they're fast. She tells Mitsuru to stay close to Genista and back it up. Goro advises that she doesn't get too worked up.

Seeing Ichigo, 090 wonders what such a skilled teen code is doing in a makeshift team, along with Hiro. He is interrupted by the announcement of a second wave.

In Strelizia, Hiro pants and clutches his chest. Zero Two tells him that they're all over the place, unlike 26. She says that she wants to fight already. Hiro asks why she fights the klazosaurs, since she always looks like she's having fun. She says because she's a monster. She asks about him, and he says to protect Papa and all the adults of the plantation, since that's their purpose in life. She says his answer is lame. He says they should move out to help.

Strelizia quickly defeats many klaxosaurs. 090 scolds her for ignoring orders. Hiro says that he's just there to help his squad. Though he begins to protest, Hiro hangs up. A member of his squad asks what to do, and 090 says to ignore them and take it out in one fell swoop. They begin attacking together.

Zero Two and Hiro begin to disconnect, so she turns to see him panting and clutching his chest. She asks if that's all he has. With blue veins popping out of his face, he sits up and she praises him. They continue to fight. Ichigo tells Strelizia to go back, but Hiro says it's fine. She says to get back again, so Zero Two calls her bossy.

Unit 26 begins attacking and the klaxosaur screams before becoming its Gutenberg-class humanoid form. 090 orders them to keep attacking, but they are roughly thrown into the ground. He orders them to get back, but he is unable to move as they're out of fuel. Before they are crushed, Argentea pulls them away.

Hachi orders all squad 26 units to fall back and Squad 13 will deal with it. Though the group agrees that they need Strelizia, Ichigo orders that they stay put. She says it'll land the finishing blow. Zorome becomes angry, but Goro says that only Strelizia's spear can reach its core, so they'll make an opening for it. Ichigo privately thanks him for his plan. They begin crawling up it.

Hiro pants and Zero Two asks if it's too painful. She says it won't end until they kill it. He begins fighting and they launch into it. Hiro things they got it, but it swipes them far away and changes form again. Hiro becomes unconscious. Their link is broken and Strelizia enters stampede mode. It continues to smash them against the wall.

Ichigo breaks down and disconnects from Goro, thinking he's dead. The other parasites worry and Mitsuru says it's bad if it breaks through the wall. Crying, Ichigo says that she couldn't tell him not to pilot. He angrily tells her to get it together.

Hiro stands where he sent Naomi off, realizing he died. Naomi appears and scolds him for giving up without listening to his partner. She asks if he's okay with that. Smiling, he says he doesn't care since he got to be of use. She calls him a liar as the elevator door closes.

Hiro sees Zero Two standing under a mistletoe tree. He thanks her for everything, but she sadly walks away.

He wakes up to see Zero Two struggling and that they didn't actually kill it. He thinks that she can't do it alone. He realizes that she fights alone after losing her partner. He says that his wings exist for her as his veins retract.

He hugs her from behind and she calms down. He says that he's her partner and he won't leave her alone. They begin fighting.

Dr. FRANXX begins watching as well. They all begin attacking again to create another opening. Strelizia flies into its core as everyone watches in amazement. Dr. FRANXX says he might make her wish come true. Hiro tells her he found another reason to pilot so he can be her wings. She says she's sure he'll be fine.

They walk out together and the two groups celebrate. As Zero Two watches, she says she has to kill more klaxosaur.

Episode 07: Shooting Star Moratorium
Looking at the sun, Ikuno narrates that after the successful kissing with Plantation 26, Unit 13 was given a special vacation. The kids seem happy and Futoshi and Zorome run to the water. Though Miku says that they're childish, Kokoro smiles and says that it's expected, as it's their first time seeing an ocean that's okay to swim in. Ikuno says that she didn't know a place like that survived on the surface.

Goro sets up an umbrella and tells Futoshi and Zorome not to go too far out. Ichigo tells him that Nana will pick them up the next morning. Goro wonders if it's some kind of training, but Ichigo smiles and says that they should enjoy themselves anyway. Goro blushes and agrees, turning away.

Zero Two pulls Hiro to the water. Kokoro smiles and says she's glad he's all better. Goro says it's good that he's an official parasite now too. Ichigo narrates that she was uncomfortable about Zero Two, but could see that she was what he needed.

Gorilla marvels at Hiro's ability. One notes that Zero Two's search for a man has finally ended. Marmoset says that she still needs to be monitored closely. Papa says that Plantation 13 is a top-priority surveillance subject. He says that Code 016 is tasked with bringing her to the Grand Crevasse.

Hachi says that one of APE's special forces has become a plantation's exclusive parasite. Zero Two tells Dr. FRANXX that they didn't have to come all the way. Nana introduces Hiro to Dr. FRANXX, the creator of FRANXX. She begins to introduce a boy, but he stops her. He approaches Hiro and says that he's the first person to survive Zero Two. He says that he has an interest in them. Hachi tells the doctor that Strelizia and Code 002 are transferred into Plantation 13's purview. He waves at him and says that the geezers already told him. When Hachi announces that they're officially partners, Zero Two hugs Hiro.

After Ichigo leaves, Ikuno begins to read. Mitsuru asks if she came there just to read. She says that she isn't interested in goofing around. Mitsuru says that the guy who looked suicidal now looks like part of the group. She tells him not to look to her for affirmation, since she's not like him. Smirking, he says he was merely talking to himself. She asks if they're done talking then, and he says that he found something odd.

Mitsuru leads the group through a thin pass. Kokoro says that she's a bit scared of the dark. Mitsuru coldly replies that she didn't have to come if she didn't want to. Futoshi is angered by this and tells him to be nice to her. He says that he can't guarantee their safety.

They're lead to what appears to be a city. Kokoro asks if people live there, and Mitsuru replies that he'd never heard of anyone living outside the plantations. Zorome spots a building that looks similar to their own boarding house. Ikuno says that they must have used it as a model to build the environment they live in. Futoshi wonders where Kokoro went.

Kokoro looks around and comes by a medical office. She finds a book about childbirth. Mitsuru calls out to her and pulls her back before a bookcase falls on her. He asks her not to run off alone.

Back at the beach, food had been delivered. Mitsuru watches Futoshi stuff food into his mouth. Miku teases Futoshi and Zorome by lying on her lap.

Mitsuru asks if he's doubting Papa and the rest. He says that they moved into plantations in order to protect mankind. This pumps Zorome up, to Mitsuru's disdain. When Zorome refers to Hiro as their teammate, Mitsuru looks annoyed.

When Zorome finds a crab, Futoshi wants to eat it. Mitsuru is surprised that he still wants to eat, causing the others to laugh.

The parasites all sleep close together, with Futoshi and Zorome lying atop one another.

Episode 08: Boys × Girls
As the parasites are fighting a klaxosaur, it spews goo. It leaks into the cockpits and melts the girls' parasite suits. Though the boys begin spacing out, they don't tell the girls. Hiro finally tells Zero Two and the rest of the girls realize what's happened.

The girls cover themselves with a towel and glare at their partners. Besides Zero Two, who doesn't seem to mind. The boys look embarrassed, and Goro explains they only didn't tell because they didn't want to distract them during the battle. Futoshi says he didn't because he found Kokoro to be amazingly beautiful. Kokoro turns red and looks away. Mitsuru calls him an idiot and walks away.

Zorome tells him that it's not like it hurt them to be seen, and Hiro says that Zero Two said it is better that parasites are a bit pervy, which Zero Two confirms. This annoys the girls further.

The girls begin splitting the area of the house between the boys and girls. Zorome begins to cross, but is threatened by Miku and stops. Dr. FRANXX and the two apes watch. Hachi says that it's unprecedented for so many members of a squad to hit puberty at once. Nana says that it has always been at most one or two together. Nana says that if they go by Ape's manual, they should intervene and resolve the issue immediately. Dr. FRANXX asks what would be the point of the test team if they did that. He tells them to observe and write for him detailed reports. He tells them not to interfere or tell "the geezers."

The girls talk about what's happened but notice that Zero Two is ignoring their split. As they go to reprimand her, the boys walk in from swimming in the lake wearing only boxers. Though Miku tells them to get dressed, he says they can do whatever they like on their side. As they clean the bath, Ichigo says that it must have been Goro's idea.

When they go to eat, the boys are already there. Goro says that they've already taken over the area. Miku becomes annoyed, so Goro suggests that drop all the rules and eat together. Zero Two walks in and Miku attempts to follow her, but the other girls pull her back.

When Kokoro enters a small greenhouse, she finds Mitsuru. He slips his medication into his pocket and she asks if he has an interest in plants as he tucks a baby book into her pocket. He says no, and that it's a good place for being alone. Kokoro says she begged Nana to let her take care of the greenhouse. She tells him about the meaning of some of the flowers and then asks if he doesn't mind chatting with her when the girls and boys are "feuding." He says it's stupid and can't be bothered. Kokoro is amazed and says it takes a lot of courage to refuse to toe the line and she was too scared to say anything. When he walks closer to her, she panics and drops her book. He says that it doesn't matter to him and walks out.

Miku, Ichigo, and Ikuno look for food and go to the first floor. They find a room that says "keep out." Ikuno says she wouldn't mind if it was always sealed off. Zero Two licks her and says she tastes a secret. She begins to walk away, but Miku asks whose side she's on. She says she'll play along. She changes the girls only bath sign to allow boys and, when they enter naked, the girls are already bathing. They become angry and begin throwing bathing supplies at them. Zero Two runs out with their clothes and Hiro chases her. They meet on the roof where Hiro begins laughing after she throws their clothes in the air. She says she wanted to take part in a human fight.

The other parasites continue to bicker when Nana suddenly interrupts. She and Hachi scold the group after they get dressed. In the girl's room, she tells them if they half-ass things, they'll end up adults. She says to say what they want because they'll all die sooner or later. In the boys room, Zorome is mad and Mitsuru says that they must look down of the boys. Hiro says it was fun and got to see a more human side of Zero Two. Mitsuru says it's not the same for them, since they have normal partners. Hiro says she is a normal girl and that pistils let stamen handle all the controls, but they bear the brunt of each battle.

Kokoro says that they need to begin working together again after looking at her book. She says that they need them to pilot the FRANXX and, blushing, having children. Miku says she's she'll continue no matter what and heads into one of the sealed rooms. There, she finds a picture of another group and panics. The rest find her and wonder what the room is. Zero Two says that it's probably one of the rooms the former Squad 13 used. Zorome questions what happened and Zero Two says they were obviously wiped out.

Zorome apologizes and says he won't leer anymore. Miku says that she's too cute, so a little bits okay. Each partner apologizes, except Mitsuru and Hiro. Later on, Zorome and Miku are seen bickering before they enter their FRANXX. Hiro says that he wants get to know Zero Two better. She tells him to grab on and never let go of her.

Episode 09: Triangle Bomb
The parasites are happy to receive their gifts: Hiro a book about birds.

Hiro tells Zero Two that, once every year, they can ask Papa for the things they want. She asks if he got a picture book, but he explains that it's an illustrated guide. He asks if she likes picture books and says they might have some n the study.

Zorome shouts that he'll read Papa's message. The parasites smile as he reads it out loud. The letter congratulates and praises them, making everyone happy. Hiro notices that Zero Two is unfazed by the letter.

At 7:10, Hiro gives Zero Two Naomi's mirror. Smiling, he says that he wanted to find something for her. She smiles and hugs him, saying that she never knew getting a present could make her so happy. She promises to take good care of it. Looking at Ichigo's hairpin, Goro remembers their past.

In their room, Goro holds the same hairclip. Hiro comes into the room. Goro teases him for how Zero Two smiled at him. Hiro blushes and asks if he was watching. Goro apologizes and Hiro asks if the hair clip he's holding is Ichigo's. Goro says that it's the same type of hair clip, but it's the one he tried and failed to give to her. Goro asks if he rememvers when he said he didn't understand "love" and says that he's starting to think it means the other person is special to you. Hiro agrees with his definition. Goro says that he'd always been Ichigo's hero, and that it's special. He says that Ichigo feels the same way about Hiro as Hiro feels about Zero Two, like wanting to know more and be together, and kiss. Hiro is taken back and Goro asks if he hadn't noticed. Goro says he knows what makes her laugh, cry, but none of them would work for him, only Hiro could. He says that watching him lately made him realize that he loves Ichigo. He says he feels relieved to tell someone and quickly takes off his glasses to sleep. Lying down, he smiles and says he's happy with the things are.

As Hiro and Goro turn off their lights, Ikuno says she's turning off theirs. Ichigo tells her to wait. She puts her hairclip on her bedside table and snuggles her two stuffies. Zero Two looks at herself in Naomi's mirror.

Hachi tells the parasites that they've detected a Gutenberg-class Klaxosaur 2,000 from there. Nana says it's moving slowly. As she continues to talk, Hiro looks over at Ichigo but turns away when she looks at him.

The FRANXX approach the klaxosaur and Argentea approaches first. It is wrapped in tentacles and brought closer. It attaches explosives, which causes slight injury. Mitsuru notices the core and quickly charges at it. He only nicks it and it begins to multiply its jelly. Goro quickly pushes them out, but is stuck instead. Goro quickly launches Ichigo before it explodes.

Goro wakes up and turns off the alarms. Hiro begins messaging him. He says that Ichigo's fine but got knocked out by the ejection and is getting treated with Zorome and Miku. Hiro explains that he's inside the klaxosaur. They were ordered to retreat. Futoshi promises that they'll figure something out. Goro says that he's switching to safe mode to conserve power.

Ikuno says that you can't utilize a FRANXX's magma energy without its pistil. Mitsuru says that they are programmed to run their life support sustems on backup power. Zero Two says he'll die if it runs out and they'll all be in danger.

Ichigo suddenly charges in with Miku and Zorome following. Though Miku tries to stop her, Ichigo asks what happened. Zorome says he told her that he tried to save them. She turns and asks why they aren't going to rescue him and how they could abandon him. She asks why he'd cut her loose when he's helpless alone. Zorome becomes uncomfortable and backs away from their argument. Miku sighs and calls her annoying and says that Goro's always looking out for her, like the time Hiro almost died when she broke down and Goro got her back on her feet. Ichigo asks what gives her the right to talk to her like that. Miku says that she's supposed to be the leader, but she loses her cool and lashes out constantly, and Goro must have a hard time with her as his partner.

Nana and Hachi enter and, smiling, Nana claps her hands and says that she's glad they're safe. Hachi explains that the klaxosaur vaporizes its bodily fluids to expland and explode. Kokoro asks if Goro's stuck in its fuel. Nana says that the fluid is harmless to FRANXX. Zorome says that they'll rescue Goro first, since he owes him. Hachi coldly says that their top priority is preventing the target from making contact with the plantation and explains their plan. Hiro angrily asks if they'll leave Goro to die. Nana says that if worst comes to worst. Hachi tells them to prapare to sortie. Ichigo asks to speak to Goro.

Goro says it's been 30 minutes since they radioed. Sweating, he tries to loosen his collar. In his hand, he holds Ichigo's hairpin. Ichigo calls out to him and he is happy that she came to. She suddenly shouts, scolding him, but he smiles. She sadly asks why he doesn't lean on her a little. Crying, she promises to save him. He says he came up with a plan and he's going to kill it and come home to her. He says he needs to go to conserve power.

Ichigo asks Hachi to be allowed to save him. Hiro agrees. Nana asks what they intend to do. Zero Two says that there's an exhaust hole on top of the klaxosaur.

Genista and Chlorophytum stand as the last line of defense. Ichigo sits in Strelizia's hand. Hiro says that, to get to Delphinium, she'll have to cross an area of highly pressurized vapor fuel. Zero Two says she wouldn't do it if she was her. Smiling, Ichigo says she believes in her. Zero Two smiles and says she doesn't dislike that. They throw her in and she swims to Delphinium.

Inside, Goro pants. He remembers two kids asking why he always picks fights with them. The other says he's weak, so it doesn't matter. Goro says he was sick of the communal lifestyle and thought he'd get to be alone if he made everyone hate him. Ichigo asks why he keeps getting into fights when he's so weak. He tells her to mind her own business. They push him to the ground. She helps him up and they defeat the other kids together. She says they can win togetehr. Goro smiles and thinks that he loved her since then. Hiro suddenly walks in and smiles at Ichigo and the kids all stand around him. Goro notices she is overjoyed to see him as well. Though he looks sad, he narrates that it was okay because Hiro was special to him in his own way too.

The klaxosaur approaches the line. Goro thinks that he used to think that he didn't mind if his feelings never got through to her. As Ichigo swims, her hairclip comes off. At 6%, Goro says that he has more than enough to self-destruct, and an extra pack. He says he wishes he could have told her. Ichigo suddenly bursts in and says that the air's thin. He asks why she came, and she says he's so headstrong, even though he's weak. She says that they can't win alone, but together they can. Goro smiles with tears in his eyes. He narrates that he though he was satisfied that she would cry for him, but he's happier than ever to see her smile. He extends his hand to her. They leave and Goro drops the bomb, causing it to explode once they're away from it.

Ichigo bandages him. He asks where her hair clip is. She looks around, distressed. He hands her his and she asks if he picked it up for her. He says that he waned to give it to her, but couldn't. Smiling, he says that he loves her. He says that he doesn't want to regret not taking action. She smiles and thanks him for being her partner, but she doesn't know how to respond to his love. He says he wasn't trying to put her on the spot. They hug and he asks if they can stay like that for a while.

Episode 10: The City of Eternity
Zorome narrates that he'd been having the same dream over and over again where he's surrounded by darkness and staring at a distant bright light, and crying. Gradually, the light grows larger until it envelops him, and he lets out a loud scream.

The FRANXX attack a klaxasaur and easily disarm it. Zorome and Miku deliver the final blow, but Zorome takes too long to pull out and it shoots blood all over Argentea.

The Seven Sages discuss the children. Tarsier suggests that they reward the children, and Papa agrees.

Zorome and Miku argue about their previous battle. Hiro notices that Zero Two seems sad, so he asks her what's wrong. She replies that she was just thinking about something and they both leave together. Nana shouts that she has good news.

The parasites gather around her and she happily explains that they have to wear their formal clothing the next day as Papa is going to award them medals. The ceremony will be held in the Plantation Parliament HQ. Though the other kids are excited, Zorome doesn't understand and seems indifferent to the medals. Miku explains that it means they can go into the city. Zorome looks to Nana for confirmation and she smiles. He becomes overjoyed and yells, to the annoyance of Miku.

Zero Two looks indifferent and turns to leave. Before she can, Nana stops her and says that she'll arrange for her to undergo tests while there. Zero Two says that she hates the tests and always feels lousy after she takes them. She turns and smiles, saying that she's in great shape right now and will pass on the tests for a while. After she leaves, Nana says that she thought she'd grown more obedient since she teamed up with a certain someone.

The next morning, the kids stand at the door and they remark that Zorome looks cooler than usual. Zorome smugly agrees, but Futoshi teasingly says that he was checking himself out in the mirror the entire morning. Mitsuru asks how he didn't get sick of it, causing Zorome to become angry. Kokoro giggles and says that he does look a lot cooler, though, returning him to his positive mood. Miku tells Kokoro not to flatter him, causing she and Zorome to bicker again. Hiro notices that Zero Two is being standoffish, but Hachi and Nana open the door and they all leave.

At an ID gate, Hachi and Nana easily pass through. The children hesitate so Nana tells them to come along. Zorome suddenly throws himself through the gate, to the amazement of the others, but lands on the ground.

The children marvel at the city. At the ceremony, the mayor congratulates them and thanks them for their efforts. When he congratulates Ichigo, she says that it was everyone's effort. He tells Zero Two that their plantation is honored that a former Nine like herself has joined them. He turns to Hiro and says that he's lived up well to the expectations placed upon him. Hiro thanks him, but looks troubled and turns to Zero Two who still looks indifferent.

He thanks Miku and when the mayor thanks Zorome, he is overjoyed and offers his hand. The mayor seems confused and walks away.

Afterwards, Zorome stares at his hand. When Hachi says that he's leaving the rest to Nana, the children are disappointed with how the ceremony actually played out. The girls push Nana to let them walk back, and she reluctantly agrees.

The children look around as they walk back. Zorome happily looks forward to when they too can live there as adults. The others disagree and feel like they won't be able to become adults, though they don't know why.

Zero Two and Hiro walk far behind the group. Hiro asks what she meant when she said the city was lifeless. She says just what I said. Hiro says that she'd been acting weird, and asks if something happened. She says that she just couldn't care less about this place.

The children marvel at the city's main energy source. When Goro asks Ichigo, she seems uncomfortable. He says that maybe he shouldn't have told her how he felt and says to not let it bother her.

Nana tells them they have to return, but Zorome wanders off and is separated. He looks at the energy source, but realizes that he's been separated and cannot contact the others.

The woman explains to a man that she treated and fed him. He hands her a heart. A man tells him not to waste their time and infected children shouldn't enter. The other man tells him to knock it off, since they're victims too, calling them pitiful.

Ichigo happily announces that they found Zorome and everyone sighs in relief. Miku calls him a jerk for making them worry. She sentences him to clean the bath for a week.

Zorome rides the elevator with Nana. As he cleans the bath, he hums. Miku enters and yells at him to take it seriously. He asks why she's watching him for. She says that he won't take it seriously unless she does or he might get lost. He laughs and asks why she got such a useless kid. He scrubs her with his brush. Outside, Hiro hears them bickering and laughs before looking at Zero Two's window. She looks at herself in the mirror and sees that her teeth have become fangs.

''He thinks that they're not pitiful. He wonders why the women felt so familiar. He thought about it a bunch of times after that day, but he never found an answer. Eventually, he stopped thinking about it, and even forgot about her and stopped having that dream.''

Episode 11: Partner Shuffle
Zorome notes that it's unusual for him to sleep in and Futoshi asks if he was having a good dream, as his face is all red. They head off for breakfast as he rubs his forehead. He narrates that he chose to not expect anything from anyone, preventing his hopes from being betrayed. He slips out of bed and leaves the room.

Ichigo reports that they killed 25 conrad-class klaxosaurs. Nana thanks her and says that the S-Planning in their area is proceeding smoothly, thanks to their efforts. Hachi tells codes 326 and 196 that they need to improve their kill count, and that their parasite score is dropping as well. Hachi dismisses the group, leaving him and Nana alone.

Hachi notes that they've now killed over 90 in their area. Nana smiles and says that their kills over the past fortnight are 3.7 times greater than in their first. She says that what would normally cause problems in a group are drawing out their full abilities. Hachi says that it would be a total refutation of their previous methods. Nana replies that it might be what Dr. FRANXX is after.

As the unit stands on guard, Zorome asks what "S-Planning" is. Hiro replies that it seems like they're digging for something, and Zero Two says that it's probably nothing good and she can smell klaxosaurs.

Futoshi tells Kokoro that they've grown stronger, as they're on a special mission. Kokoro says that it's thanks to him carrying her through. Futoshi says that she's his responsibility and she giggles and thanks him. Blushing and nervous, he asks thar she promise to be his partner forever. She again smiles and agrees. Futoshi is happy and promises to always protect her. Miku suddenly interrupts and says he's gross. Zorome agrees and says to cut off his comm. Kokoro giggles, but Futoshi reprimands them for listening.

An alarm suddenly sounds and Ichigo announces that seven conrad-class klaxosaurs are approaching. Goro wonders if they have a nest nearby. Ichigo tells them to get ready. Chlorophytum suddenly falls to its knees. Ikuno turns to see what's wrong, and finds Mitsuru sweating and panting.

As Mitsuru lies in bed, Hachi notes that his child fever came sooner than expected. Nana gives him an antipyretic as Hachi notes he had already had the procedure.

Goro notes that he had always been frail, and Ichigo adds that he was the only one who received the injection and came back. Miku is confused, so Ikuno says that it was the Elixir Injection, a highly concentrated drug that induced yellow blood cell production and greatly increases parasite aptitude. Miku asks if he had always acted that way. Goro says no, he used to follow Hiro around. Futoshi says that that's shocking and Zorome asks how they ended up butting heads. Goro says he doesn't know, but it started not long before he took the injection. He says that Hiro changed a little back then, too. Kokoro says that the injection has only a survival rate of 15% and didn't know he had such a risky procedure.

While dreaming in the hospital bed, he remembers telling Hiro that he wanted to be like him, fight in the FRANXX together. He sadly says that he can't because he's too weak, so if he takes the injection and comes back alive, he asks if he would pilot FRANXX together. Before he replies, Mitsuru suddenly wakes up, cursing.

The next morning, Nana notes that he seems to be out of the woods for now. He asks to pilot a FRANXX. She is reluctant and thinks it over. When they test, his capacity is low and Hachi notes that he might become a pruning target. Nana thinks of what they should do.

She suggests that they try a "partner shuffle." She tells them that it's simply an option available to them. The children discuss their thoughts, and Futoshi says that they don't need to, since he promised to protect her forever. He asks if she agrees and she reluctantly agrees. Hiro asks Zero Two if something is bothering her and asks if she remembers when he asked her to speak her mind with him because he wanted to get to know her better. As he talks, she covers his mouth and says they can understand each other just fine by piloting Strelizia together.

Mitsuru watches Hiro from far away and Ikuno tells him to stop, since he knows what caused the mess. He asks what she's talking about. She tells him to drop the act and that it takes courage to face up to others and himself. He asks what her point is, and she says that he wants to be acknowledged, not by Papa or the adults. He suddenly shouts for her to shut up. Everyone turns to look at him, causing him to look ashamed. Ikuno smirks and says that it suits him better than acting cool and aloof. She says she's not like him.

Nana asks if there is anyone who wants to try piloting with a different partner. Ikuno asks to try a pistil-pistil connection as a backup plan when they've lost a stamen. She asks Ichigo to help. Ichigo is surprised by reluctantly agrees. Nana agrees to let them try and asks if there's anyone else. Kokoro shyly puts up her hand and asks to try with Mitsuru. This surprises everyone, and Futoshi is hurt. She apologizes, but he begins to cry.

Nana announces that 160 seconds have passed. Ichigo says she doesn't feel anything and they time out. Genista's score crossed the minimum required, though it is in the lower range, it is stable.

In the locker room, Ichigo smiles and says she knew it wouldn't work without a boy. Ikuno coldly says that she was serious before closing her locker and walking out. Both she and Mitsuru leave at the same time. She tells him to laugh if he must.

Futoshi cries into his pillow as the other boys are at his side. He asks if he did something wrong. Zorome suggests that maybe he annoyed her and that he should lose weight. Goro wonders why she would and Hiro replies that she must have felt she had to do something for Mitsuru. Zorome smiles and says especially since he's so miserable. Futoshi leaps out of bed and begins shaking him, saying clearly he's the most miserable. Goro tells him to calm down, as Mitsuru suddenly returns. They all turn to look at him. He begins to leave, but Futoshi angrily asks if he thinks he's pathetic. Mitsuru asks what it matters who their partners are. Futoshi easily throws the others off of him and says he has no idea how he feels. He tries to punch him, but misses and falls on his face. Mitsuru adjusts his tie and says he's annoying. Hiro tells him to try and understand Futoshi's feelings. Mitsuru clenches his fist and asks what right he has to say that. Hiro doesn't seem to understand and Mitsuru walks away. On the floor, Futoshi says that, when he thinks of Kokoro, his chest feels tight. Now, he says that the tightness hurts now and wonders why. Hiro smiles at him and says he understands.

In the greenhouse, Kokoro twirls around and hums. To her doll, she says that the flowers smell nice. Mitsuru suddenly asks what she's doing, and she throws her doll in surprise. They sit together and she asks why he thinks humans stopped having children. He says probably because they don't need to anymore. She says that it seemed having a baby was the most natural thing. He tells her not to waste time thinking about unnecessary things, as one look at the adults makes it clear: They don't need others to live. He asks why she volunteered to be his partner and that Futoshi hates him now. He asks if it was out of pity. She says no, and begins to suggest something, but is interrupted by sirens.

A Gutenberg-class klaxosaur approaches and Hachi commands to set up a defensive line 500 meters from the S-Planning and neutralize the target. He says that Genista and Chlorophytum will act as rear support. As Kokoro and Mitsuru go to their FRANXX, Futoshi stops him and tells him to protect Kokoro. Mitsuru scoffs and says not to be ridiculous. Kokoro stops him and says she'll be fine. Futoshi tells her to be careful and says he'll do his best with Ikuno. Kokoro smiles and nods. Futoshi begins crying and rushes into the cockpit, causing Ikuno to sigh.

Zero Two suddenly attacks, and Hiro says that its core is too deep. She rushes in again and is trapped, forcing Miku and Ichigo to save her. She tells Ichigo to mind her own business and charges at it again. The pieces cut off turn into the Conrad-class klaxosaurs they'd been fighting. Before she can attack again, Hiro stops her and she tells him not to get in her way. He asks Ichigo what they should do. Kokoro says they need to shoot at it. Futoshi cries as they talk.

Three get past and Futoshi goes after it. He tells Ikuno that she's too tense, but they manage to kill it. Mitsuru struggles as well, and Kokoro says that there's no need to rush. Strelizia kills it for them and Hiro asks if they're okay. Kokoro thanks him, and he tells Mitsuru to hand in there before rushing back. Mitsuru becomes annoyed and charges blindly at the klaxosaur, causing them to smash into it. An operator announces that Genista's positive pulse is dropping below minimum. Though they are about to be squished, Chlorophytum protects them. Ikuno asks if they're okay. Kokoro thanks both of them. Miku and Ichigo cuts its back legs, but it begins stretching in place towards the S-Planning. Ichigo says she and Miky will stop it. Miku tells Chlorophytum to take care of Genista. Futoshi says that he'll protect her as they shoot into its foot.

Kokoro says that they should start over and turns toward Mitsuru. They power down and he tells her that if she places her hopes in him, she'll only be let down because he's incompetent. She disagrees and Hachi suddenly orders them to reconnect. She enters them into radio silence, leaving Hachi confused. Kokoro says that he can rely on others more and that she believes in him. She tells him to believe in her too. He smiles and asks if she's joking.

As a child, he asks Hiro to pilot together. Hiro smiles and promises. After his injection, he approaches Hiro, who forgot all about it. He tells Kokoro that believing in someone will only get you betrayed. He says he was a fool for expecting anything from him and asks why he would make a promise if he was going to forget about it. He holds his head in his hands and cries.

Kokoro says that must have deeply hurt him. She says that she acted similarly towards Futoshi and she isn't the nice girl they think she is. She says that if someone did something like that to her, she wouldn't have any right to complain or blame them. He angrily asks if he should forgive him, then. She says that they aren't perfect like the adults, but she wants to have relationships. She says she believes in him. She turns and begins to enter stampede mode. Mitsuru suddenly hugs her and she stops. He asks how she can trust someone so much. They smile at each other.

Genista reconnects and they all work together to kill it. Afterwards, Futoshi asks why he was so reckless, and Kokoro is about to stop him but Mitsuru stops her. He punches him in the face and Kokoro rushes to care for him. He asks why he didn't dodge it. Mitsuru asks if he realizes how unreasonable he's being. Futoshi shouts at him before Mitsuru slowly says that he promises to protect her. Futoshi falls to his knees and says that he loved her. Hiro sadly looks on from his FRANXX and Zero Two embraces him from behind. She tells him that they'll be together until they die.

Mitsuru reflects that he doesn't know if he can forgive Hiro, but he agrees that he knows things will keep happening between them all. The next morning, his temperature returned to normal.

Episode 12: The Garden Where It All Began
The episode starts with the members of Squad 13 looking out of a large window within a vehicle, seeing the Garden as they approach it. Zero Two is elsewhere within the vehicle, looking for picture books but to no avail. Squad 13 has been sent back to The Garden to undergo some tests, the place where they were raised. They are greeted by the Nines, Zero Two's former squad, and their leader Nine Alpha who wonders what Zero Two, formerly coded Nine Iota, saw in them. Disobeying orders, Hiro, with the other members of Squad 13 visit the old facilities where they were raised in, hoping to meet Naomi again. Naomi is nowhere to be seen and the adults refuse to tell them where she is. They also discover that the children from Garden are being developed into Parasites at a much earlier age, in response to the increased number of Klaxosaur attacks. When a group of Klaxosaurs attack the Garden, Squad 13 is dispatched, and Hiro notes that Zero Twos canines and horns have grown longer. During the battle, a hysteric Zero Two ignores direct orders and attacks alone, claiming that she must kill more Klaxosaurs in order to become truly human. After the battle, Hiro asks the meaning of her words, but she refuses to answer. Meanwhile, Ichigo eavesdrops on a conversation between Nana and Hachi in which they affirm with each other that the Saurification process in Zero Two and Hiro is intensifying, much to her horror. When the second wave of the Klaxosaurs attack, Squad 13 sorties again and once more Zero Two turns rogue. Hiro is attacked by Zero Two whilst trying to stop her, and he receives visions of a past long forgotten.

Episode 13: The Beast and the Prince
Nana warns that Hiro's and Zero Two's consciousnesses will connect through Strelizia and merge.

In present time, Delphinium's arm is ripped off and thrown along with Strelizia. Ichigo yells for Hiro to get away from Zero Two or he'd lose his humanity. Hiro, crying, says that she was the girl with the picture book. She looks back at him with tears in her eyes.

Episode 14: Punishment and Confession
Zero Two and Hiro realize they knew each other as children. Zero Two catches Hiro before he collapses and asks if he's her darling from her childhood and is horrified thinking of what she had done. Ichigo suddenly interrupts and throws her off of him and into Goro. He asks if she's alright as Ichigo tries to revive Hiro. The other FRANXX wait. When they return to the docking facility, Hiro is taken for treatment. Zero Two realizes what Hiro meant when he said he wanted to understand her better.

At an APE hospital room, Nana notes that his yellow blood cell count has gone far beyond what the human body can handle and his saurification could begin at any moment.

Zero Two goes to talk to Hiro, but is stopped by Ichigo. She blames her for his hospitalization and says she can't see him again. Goro and Miku tell her to calm down. When Ichigo reveals that Hiro will lose his humanity, the rest of the parasites don't believe her and ask Zero Two. She tells them to shut up and mind their own business. Ichigo stops her again from seeing him and says that she isn't a member of their team.

Hiro wakes up and is surrounded by his teammates. He asks where Zero Two is and Ichigo says she stopped her. Hiro has strangulation marks on his neck. They all leave, but Hiro stops Mitsuru.

Hiro says that he made a promise to him before he got an Elixer Injection. Mitsuru is surprised, but says to never mind and it was a long time ago. He says he'd forgotten about it before that. He says that any other stamen would've died long ago. He tells him to listen to Ichigo and stay away from her. Hiro says that he has something to ask her and thanks Mitsuru.

He says that after that day, his aptitude kept decreasing. Though he felt like he died, she gave him a new life. He thinks it must be because he drank her blood. Zero Two sits in her room, biting her nails.

Hachi announced they must neutralize every klaxosaur inhabiting Gran Crevasse. Nana says that it is a joint operation with the 9's and FRANXX squad from each plantation. He says that Squad 13 is schedules to be part of the sixth wave. Nana says it will be their most difficult mission and Ichigo raises her hand. She asks that Zero Two is removed from Squad 13 as of that mission and, if not, Squad 13 will not participate in the operation. Nana says that she was set to return to the 9's as of the mission anyway. Zero Two protests, but the parasites stop her from seeing him.

When Hiro gets up, he is stopped by Miku. Zero Two is also guarded and prevented from leaving her room. Ichigo comes in to see Hiro and they chat. She gives him an apple. She tells him that Zero Two is returning to the 9's the next night. She asks if he hates her and says that, even if he does, not to go anywhere.

Hiro apologizes and Ichigo cuts her thumb, so Hiro bandages it for her. Zero Two remembers what Ichigo said and thinks that she knew she could never be a human. Ichigo leaves the knife and apple peels. Zero Two breaks out of her room as Ichigo returns. She roughly throws Goro against a window. Ichigo scolds Zero Two and asks if she wants to lie to him again. She says she's wrong and just wants to talk to him.

Goro tells Ichigo to let her see him and Kokoro agrees, stating that it's sad to see them apart. Goro says that she can meet him, but they're all going to be there. When they enter the room, it's empty. Hiro had used the knife to make a rope out the curtains. He then tied the knife to it and climbed upstairs, escaping containment. Zero Two becomes enraged and says that they tricked her. Hiro unknowingly goes to Zero Two's room.

He asks through the door if she knew about their past. He opens the door to find the room destroyed. He returns to the hospital to find all his teammates unconscious and her attacking Ichigo. Zero Two, with a devious grin, invites Hiro to "talk lots and lots". Hiro scolds her for being such a monster. She realizes the damage she'd done to him.

Zero Two leaves the plantation as the other parasites watch her leave silently. She passes by Hiro without saying anything. When Ichigo suggests they go inside, she finds that he's crying. He is about to go after her, but Ichigo stops him, saying he'll turn into a monster. When he turns away again, she grabs his face and kisses him.

Ichigo says she doesn't regret the kiss they shared during the mock battle and that she wants to be with him forever. Goro overhears this and sadly smiles. Ichigo says that he'd always been her everything and that she'd never been interested in anyone else. He looks up to see Zero Two's ship.

Episode 15: The Bird that Shares Wings
At Cerasus's international briefing room, Hachi explains that their objective is to take control of Gran Crevasse. Though another group is attacking, they aren't making headway. Squad 13 is to group up with squads from other plantations.

Kokoro asks what Gran Crevasse is. Nana shows them a video where a large amount of klaxosaur are. Hachi explains that taking over Gran Crevasse is Papa's long-standing wish and would be a turning point in humanity's history. On screen, a large group of FRANXX walk behind Strelizia in it's stampede mode.

At APE central HQ on Cosmos, Dr. FRANXX meets with the council. He finds that Zero Two devoured all of her stamen and he calls her a hellcat.

One of them says that they may finally get their wish if they take over Gran Crevasse. Another says that Hringhorni's construction is proceeding smoothly. One says, if they have both, they can bury "those pests" once and for all. One happily exclaims that the time has come.

Dr. FRANXX begins to walk off, and is asked where he is going (referring to him as "Werner"). He says he wants to watch it from a front-row seat.

Hiro watches Zero Two attack a klaxosaur. Ichigo suddenly grabs his hand and squeezes, but doesn't look up at him.

The parasites of Chrysanthemum struggle against the klaxosaurs large numbers. 090 screams when one of his squadmates is almost killed. Strelizia kills it, saving the FRANXX, and 9'α appears to take out more of them. He compliments 090 saying he did well for humans. He says they'll take over, so they can go in the rear.

In Cerasus's command room, they receive a message from mission command saying they're prepared to sortie. Nana tells the kids to get ready. The parasites all walk away to battle. Goro tells him not to be sad, because they'll be fine. Ichigo says that she'll teach him how to pilot from the ground up once she gets back. He asks them to come back alive, and they smile at him.

The 6th united FRANXX company begins marching together. The 9's take out a bunch of klaxosaur. Ichigo is amazed, saying it's like having a bunch of Strelizias. 9'α says that there's a lot of them. 9'β points out Plantation 13 fighting. He jumps behind Ichigo and says that her FRANXX is adorable. She sarcastically thanks him. He says that they're holding them off fine, but they're not making any progress and that the Crevasse has been sealed off inside a thick dome. They need to strike from the inside to get rid of it. Hiro sadly watches from the control room.

The unit takes out many klaxosaurs and Unit 26 notes that they're fighting well. 090 notes that they're still all over the place, but he's happy they're there. He tells them to regroup. They are about to enter the hole in the wall, but the klaxosaur all flee. The control room detects magma energy readings underground ascertained to be super lehmann-class klaxosaur. Dr. FRANXX walks in and is amazed that it was hidden underground. Hachi says he never heard of that class.

As it comes from underground, it pushes the plantation on its side and it begins to break. 090 reacts in horror as his home is destroyed. Vice Chairman says to get 090 on the line and tells him they're moving to Protocol 32. He tells him that it's a great honour. The klaxosaur moves toward plantation 13. Unit 26 lines up with bombs. He whispers that they're counting on 13 now before the squad explodes. It stops, but its face smashes through the wall and it releases klaxosaur inside. Zero Two runs in and begins attacking. The adults say that they have to neutralize the Super Lehmann-Class and Papa and the rest will take care of Gran Crevasse. Nana says that Dr. FRANXX should return to HQ and Hiro to Misilteinn. Dr. FRANXX asks if he finds her more beautiful than any human, pure, proud, and more alone than anyone like a klaxosaur. Hiro says that she isn't a klaxosaur. He says that he thought she had finally found a partner and Hiro goes up to Misilteinn.

The FRANXX struggle against their large numbers. Zero Two takes out a large amount of klaxosaurs. 9'β says that she's in a foul mood. 9'α says that the though of getting on that unseemly beast's bad side gives him the chills.

In Zero Two's room, he finds scratches and blood on the wall. In front of the window, he finds Naomi's mirror, which Zero Two taped back together after breaking it. Gulping, he asks himself why he's holding back.

Kokoro says that they're being pushed back. Chlorophytum runs out of ammo, so they use a pillar to attack. Argentea is pushed back, and the Old Woman watches it walk forward from her window. Ichigo watches Strelizia and Goro tries to get her to focus. They notice a training unit zip by them, as does Argentea. They realize it's Hiro. The training unit is taken out, so Delphinium stops him and says that he won't let him see her. Goro suddenly stops. He says he can't stand watching Hiro and Zero Two like that anymore. He steps out and tells Hiro to get in. He says that Hiro has something to say and Ichigo is worried about her too, so he asks her to take him to Zero Two.

Hiro apologizes to Ichigo and they begin to connect. Finally connecting to him, Ichigo is disappointed to find that all his memories are of Zero Two. She cries as they head out. Smiling, Goro quietly wishes them good luck. Argentea picks him up and Zorome and Miku ask what he's asking so cool for.

Zero Two thinks that, though she pretended, she wished to become human. Ichigo charges towards her. She begins attacking and says that she's sick of how she always toys with her. After Strelizia breaks her spear, Delphinium slaps her and says she wishes she'd never known her. She breaks her helmet and Ichigo says to get her act together as she headbutts her.

As the door opens, he finds that her horns have grown and branched and her eyes are red. He says that he came to see her. Ichigo says to protect Strelizia since it's the only one that can kill the monster.

As Genista and Argentea attack klaxosaurs, one of the cores crack in half and something falls out of the center. Ikuno says it looks like a human. Suddenly, there is an explosion. As it is announced that the backup plan is almost complete, Papa says that they can let the plantation go now. The stamen of the plantation are confused as to why they're making in plantations self-distuct. 9'ε and 9'a says that they're planning to end things without Strelizia's help. Dr. FRANXX is disgusted with their choice.

Hiro tries to connect, but he gets no response. He holds her horns and asks to be taken to her. A man says that, though 016's memories were erased, 002's couldn't be completely erased. The doctor tells them to continue to try and erase, regardless of the effects on her and orders Hiro back to the garden. He says that he's probably useless now that he ingested her blood.

She cannot remember things, but begins to when she recognizes familiar actions. She licks her wounds in a similar way. Seeing her book, she begins eating it. She learns the word "boku" and Zero Two, and "darling." She remembers him getting attacked and begins crying.

Zero Two's horns break and Hiro hugs her. She pushes him away and tells him not to look at her. They apologize and cry holding each other. He says they can see the world together and kisses her as she cries. Strelizia is attacks and transforms into a red version of it and easily takes out the klaxosaur. They confess their love for each other. Futoshi and Zorome cry and Ichigo says she's happy for them. The 9's begin attacking as well. The sages say that the door to Gran Crevasse has been opened and the day of humanity's liberation is upon them.

Inside the mountain klaxosaur, they find that its core is a collective mass of cores. A large hand suddenly shoots up from the ground. 9'a laughs and says that it reacted quickly. It smashes a majority of the plantation, leaving mistiltein.

Episode 16: Days of Our Lives
Futoshi says that, in the battle of Gran Crevasse, their plantation was left in ruins, but they're still living in Mistilteinn. They stand by and wait for their next mission. One month has passed since they were given those orders. He says that the damage to the plantation has affected the water supply system, and they had to restrict their electricity usage. Their caretakers are gone too. Though food supply is delivered once a week.

Zorome spots a ship and says that it's Papa. He is disappointed when it lands somewhere else.

Futoshi, Kokoro, and Miku do laundry. Zero Two suddenly bangs a spoon against a pot. Kokoro and Miku discuss that she's on messenger duty this week. Goro finds a note among boxes and puts it in his pocked.

Mitsuru and Hiro inspect water. Mitsuru says that it's turning foul as well. Hiro says they should try and filter it. Mitsuru says that their water supply could stop at anytime as he stands up. They're interrupted when Zero Two bangs on the pot and says that breakfast is ready.

Ichigo serves up their rations. When Zorome complains Ichigo takes it back and says he doesn't have to eat it. Ikuno enters and offers to help, but Ichigo says that it's fine and asks if her fever went down. Zero Two places her forehead together and says that she's 36.7 degrees (a normal body temperature) but tells her not to push herself.

They pray for Papa before they eat, though Zero Two eats anyway. Zero Two lists off the chores and Miku happily notes that she's meticulous.

As the stamen eat, Futoshi stops. Hiro asks if he's okay. Futoshi lies and says he's dieting. Zorome laughs and pinches his stomach, saying he isn't cut out for it.

Nana and Hachi call Dr. FRANXX. He asks if they hadn't made contact. When Hachi confirms they hadn't, Dr. FRANXX is happy and says that if they intervene with the children, the whole project will be ruined. Nana says she doesn't understand and that their efforts will have been in vain and defends them. Dr. FRANXX notes that she's inflexible and she's been down the road, too. He compliments Hachi and hangs up. She gets a pain in her head.

Goro says it's been a month as he and Hiro look at cans. Hiro asks if he wants to get back in the FRANXX. Goro says that, even though they were fighting and could die anytime, not fighting makes them all fidgety too. He says that he thought he was the most obsessed piloting the FRANXX.

Kokoro asks why Mitsuru wants her to cut his hair. When he looks embarrassed, Kokoro says she doesn't mind at all. As she cuts, Mitsuru wonders what he was hoping for with Hiro. He says he was wrong and was probably using his grudge to carve out a niche for himself and now he has nothing.

Kokoro tells him to look up and giggles when he looks. He asks if he looks weird, and she says he looks handsome. She says that, if he understand, he can start over. He smiles and says her saying that makes him feel like he can do anything, she's kind and gifted with her hands. She kneels down and kisses him, but becomes embarrassed and runs out.

Hiro and Zero Two walk together and Hiro says that Goro must have gotten child fever the last week. Zero Two looks at a plant and Hiro says that they're sakura buds. He says that they're a really pretty color, like her hair. She giggles and says she wants to see them.

He asks what she feels about their lives and she says they're having fun and would like to live like that forever. He scootches closer to her and is about to hold her hand, but she suddenly remembers that she was supposed to go bathing with the other pistils. She tells him not to peek.

The girls bathe in the river. Miku asks if they seen Mitsuru's hair as she washes Zero Two's hair. Ikuno says that he looks pretty good. Zero Two sees a fish and is about to get it, but Miku stops her. Miku says that her hair's a pretty color, and Zero Two says that Hiro said so too. Miku pours water on her head and asks if they always talk about corny stuff. She tackles her and pushes her into the water. When she says that she'll wash hers, she notices that she has grey hair.

The parasites meet in their living room and Ichigo says that they have five sources they can use for drinking water. Mitsuru says that two of them are only usable with filtering. Ikuno asks if they can repair the circulation system themselves. Hiro says that Mistilteinn doesn't have the equipment. Futoshi says that their access to the elevator is restricted too. Zorome asks why they don't send a letter to Papa and ask him to fix it. Goro says that he doens't think there'd be a point. The parasites sadly reflect on their vulnerability, so Zero Two says that they should cook their own food.

Hiro agrees with her, and Mitsuru agrees with him. Kokoro says that maybe they could do it then. They all agree, except Zorome who pouts.

When Futoshi starts a fire, he tries to show Zorome. He asks if he's not dieting. He eventually becomes enthused as well. Miku and Ikuno make dough. Kokoro makes a salad and Mitsuru reads a cooking book. Ichigo welcomes Hiro, Goro, and Zero Two back from fishing. Zorome and the rest are impressed with the 11 fish that she caught. Goro caught 9 and Hiro didn't catch any. Zero Two says she'll teach him later. The others want to try fishing as well.

Goro asks Ichigo how she is, and she says that the mood really changed. She happily watches as Zero Two tells the rest how to fish. Ichigo says that Hiro was right about her being a normal girl. She says she wants whats best for her and Hiro.

Before they eat, they all marvel at how they were able to cook. Though Ichigo's about to pray, Zorome starts eating and says why should they when they did everything themselves. He says it's good as Miku tries Kokoro's salad. When she says it's good, Kokoro is happy and she and Mitsuru smile at each other.

Zorome is happy at what they've accomplished and tries to get Futoshi to eat. Futoshi accidentally drops the food and Mitsuru asks if he's okay. As he picks glass, Zorome tells him to quit forcing himself. Zorome begins helping. He says that he knows he's forcing himself to eat and throwing it back up. Though he denies it, Zorome grabs his collar and begins crying. He says he has to eat to survive. Futoshi forces himself to eat and Hiro puts his hand on his back.

Zorome asks why Papa isn't getting in touch as he cries. Miku begins crying as well.

Futoshi says that, even after seeing what happened to squad 26, he was sure it wouldn't happen to him.

Mitsuru says that as pilots, there's a limit to their lives. Miku cries as she says that she was worried too, but too scared to speak up. Ikuno and Goro agree. Goro says that he'd been writing to Nana and Hachi to let them know how they're doing, but they never accepted them. Hiro says it's fine if they were cast aside by papa as long as he's with them and there's more to their lives than piloting. Futoshi starts crying and says he's hungry. They all laugh and Zorome says he suits being fat.

That night, Zero Two draws pictures in her room of the book they read together. When Hiro says that it's a sad story, she says that it was her first "pretty thing." She met him and wanted to have something beautiful with him. She realizes now what it means to be human and they embrace.

Zero Two
Hiro first met Zero Two when she was skinny dipping. Despite that others may discriminate her for her horns, he found that they are alluring. When they met, both of them were lonely and shared the struggle of not being able to pilot. After kissing Zero Two and piloting Strelizia, he was keen to do it again and prove his ability. Hiro blushes when Zero Two is around him, and is comfortable with her presence.

In episode 12, Hiro tells Zero Two that he loves her and they almost have sex with each other due of Zero Two impulse.

In Episode 13, An unusual phenomenon begins within Zero Two's body. Zero Two was now more hostile than ever. Even the words of Hiro, her partner, were getting out of reach. In the middle of such a fight, Hiro connects deeply with the consciousness of Zero Two and catches a glimpse of the memory that was their childhood. A young Hiro had just witnessed a girl with red skin and horns being pulled to another room by an Adult. Curious, he persued her and was petrified to see her being used as a lab rat, subject to torture, etc. Unwilling to watch her suffer, Hiro broke her out of her cell and together, they hid in the forest. Hiro was kind enough to look after her, talk to her, gave her sweet and even tended to her wounds. Time passes by, and one day, Hiro and the girl rested under a white tree. Hiro promises the girl that he will be her Darling. Overcame with joy, she broke into tears. But their happiness was cut short when they were arrested and brainwashed. Hiro then woke up in Strelizia, tears welling down his face. That girl was Zero Two, who is currently out of control, beating up her teammates. Hiro confronted her. Tears flowed down both their faces.

In Episode 14, as Hiro is forcibly separated from his partner, he tries to escape the hospital room he is locked in by the rest of the squad to see Zero Two, but only finds a ruined empty bedroom in Mistilteinn. He comes to realize she also went out to look for him in the hospital. However, when he arrives in his room again, he finds an outraged Zero Two holding Ichigo by the neck, while the rest of Squad 13 lies unconcious. Ichigo is then thrown to the ground. Ichigo tells Hiro to run. Zero Two, with a devious grin, invites Hiro to "talk lots and lots". Hiro scolds her for being such a monster. causing Zero Two not to despise him, but to understand the damage she's made and how unfair she's been to the one she holds dearest. Feeling like she needs to be punished for her misdeeds, a depressed Zero Two consents to leave Cerasus and meet the Nines for the battle of Grand Crevasse, this time by the side of disposable stamens, leaving as Hiro cries. When he tries once more to retrieve her, Ichigo stops him, confessing her love for him while Hiro instead pays attention to the sky as Zero Two's plane leaves the area.

In Episode 15, Hiro had a chat with Dr. Franxx. It was after this event that Hiro made up his mind. He was not going to abandon Zero Two, recklessly charging through the battlefield in a Training unit, armed with nothing but a wooden board. He fell. Blood slowly oozed from his forehead, but he was not going to give up just yet. Goro, seeing his efforts, allows him a first class seat inside Delphinium with Ichigo. Together, they reached Strelitzia. Hiro managed to make his way into the cockpit and consoles Zero Two. In return, Zero Two reciprocates Hiro feelings towards her, resulting in Strelizia "evolving". They then annihilated a super Lehman class Klaxosaur while screaming each other's name out loud.

Ichigo
Ichigo is Hiro's childhood friend. He cares a lot about her, but seems to be oblivious to her feelings for him. When Hiro piloted Delphinium with her, their compatibility was 100%, higher than any other pair. However, their FRANXX deactivated shortly after. When Ichigo kissed him at the end of episode 2, he felt nothing but guilt. In episode 14, Ichigo confesses her feelings for Hiro and forces herself on a kiss, despite his visible discomfort. She tells him she loves him and doesn't regret their kiss in the mock battle, saying she will try her best to make them pilot together.

Ichigo, after synchronizing her mind with Hiro in Episode 15, saw Hiro's fond memories with Zero Two. Finally giving up on Hiro, Ichigo decides to support Hiro and Zero Two together.

Goro
Goro and Hiro have a good relationship and grew-up together. He's often supportive of Hiro and cheers him on in his endeavors, hoping that he finds success and happiness. Likewise, he hates seeing him hurt and so learning that Hiro is dying from piloting with Zero Two leaves the latter feeling frustrated.

Nevertheless, Goro supports Hiro and Zero Two, and sees Zero Two as an ally.

Zorome
Zorome and Hiro have clashing personalities. Zorome often would mock Hiro of his inability to pilot. However, after Hiro pilots Strelizia with Zero Two and saves him alongside the rest of the squad, Hiro makes amends with him, and states that he will try not to be a burden to Zorome and will fight alongside him, which gained his respect

Mitsuru
Mitsuru and Hiro have a negative relationship. Mitsuru used to look up to Hiro, but finds his inability to pilot pathetic. He mocks him and seems to have an inferiority complex against him. He is desperate to prove that he is better than Hiro, stating that he will even become the stamen of Strelizia because he is able to ride it just as good as Hiro. However, he is left greatly injured after riding in Strelizia, which makes him anxiously think about why Hiro can pilot it so well while he can't, showing his great jealousy of Hiro.

It's later revealed that Mitsuru cold attitude towards Hiro stemmed from their childhood. Mitsuru once promised Hiro that they would ride a Franxx together. But, due of Dr FRANXX wiping the latter's memory, Hiro forgot about that promise. Mitsuru view this as an act of betrayal and hated Hiro ever since. Hiro later remembered his promise in episode 13 and confronted Mitsuru in episode 14, apologizing for what had happened. Mitsuru said he had forgotten about that already. Whether he forgives Hiro or not remains unclear.

Naomi
His former partner while training to become Parasites. When tested in their ability to connect they failed. Naomi was expelled, and Hiro chose to leave, despite HQ giving him the rare chance to remain in hopes of getting a partner that is compatible with him. Naomi cares for Hiro enough that she gets upset that he chose to leave Plantation 13 along with her. When they're meant to get on a transport to leave, she prevents him from getting on board by throwing her suitcase at him. The last thing she tells him is that she likes the name he gave her, and that she hopes he finds a good partner.

She had supposedly survived the klaxosaur attack and had gone under medical treatment.

She appears again in Episode 6, in the moment when Hiro almost dies, reminding him that his partner (Zero Two) needs him, also that he is lying to himself upon the fact that he is satisfied and that he thinks had done his best.

Dr. FRANXX
Dr. Franxx once commented that :" That boy (Hiro) might be the one to fulfill Zero Two's request". But, upon meeting him personally, he warns Hiro that if he wants to be with Zero Two forever, he musn't let her consume him.

In episode 15, they had a chat. Dr. Franxx remarks about how Zero Two is such a marvelous creation, yet is always so lonely, like a Klaxosaur. Hiro objected, saying that she's human. Intrigued, the doctor turns around to look at Hiro. He says that he had thought she (Zero Two) may have finally found a partner as Hiro prepares to leave for Zero Two.

Papa
Along with APE's council (Known as Lamarck Club, or Seven Sages), Papa refers to Hiro as the "Special Specimen".

Etymology
Hiro's nickname may use some of the numeral's readings from his real name "Code:016": hi from 1 and ro from 6.

Quotes
"I feel myself going deeper inside you!" - Episode 4; he says this to Zero Two inside the Strelizia (of course, not that kind of deep.)

"I'm your partner. I'm not going to leave you alone." - Episode 6; he says this to a desperate Zero Two after calming her down and revived himself.

"Yeah. Once we get out of here.. I want to be with you forever too. And then I'll be your Da...*Static Noise*" - Episode 13; Young Hiro proposing to young Zero Two.

"The picture book... You were the girl with the picture book back then, weren't you?" -Episode 13; Hiro asking Zero Two after regaining their past memories.

"This world is surely much, much larger than we can ever imagine! We couldn't do it back then, but this time, for sure, let's go to the outside world together!" - Episode 15; Hiro trying to calm down the crying Zero Two.

"Zero Two. Together we are one." - Episode 15; Hiro rejoining Zero Two in Strelizia, before kissing her.

 Хиро