Kokoro

Kokoro (ココロ) is one of the main characters in DARLING in the FRANXX. She is a former Parasite with the codename "556" of the Thirteenth Plantation, where she was partnered in boy-girl pair with Mitsuru to pilot a FRANXX called Genista. She was previously partnered with Futoshi.

Appearance
Kokoro has a fair complexion, calm, rich blue eyes and is considered to be attractive. She has long, wavy, ashen-blonde hair and long bangs framing her forehead and face. She wears a lacy blue headband to keep her hair out of her face.

When piloting her FRANXX Genista, she wears a white bodysuit with light green accents and keeps her hair in a braided ponytail.

In Episode 24 during her pregnancy, Kokoro was usually seen with a braid laid on her right shoulder without wearing her headband. She also wore pregnancy clothes which were given to her to use from 007.

As an adult, her hair is cut to shoulder-length.

Personality
Kokoro is a very gentle person with a kind and optimistic personality to match. She doesn't speak too often, choosing to think before speaking. Her kindness is treated with a welcome by her more feisty comrades. During scenes of tension, she is never the breaker or starter and sits by watching usually. She was depicted as someone going with the flow, which is seen when she couldn't voice her disapproval when Squad 13 explored the ruins of a town in Episode 07 and during the Girls vs Boys fight in Episode 08. She also had an inability to speak out her mind and performance to avoid conflict. Like the other kids, she didn't know how to translate her feelings of love.

Kokoro holds back a myriad of feelings, admitting to Mitsuru that she is often dishonest with most around her. The incident where she feigned loyalty to Futoshi by breaking her promise to be partners with him forever by partnering with her romantic interest Mitsuru left her feeling bad. She even admits that she's not the sweet, innocent, nice girl everyone thinks she is. Even if she wanted to help Mitsuru, she still knowingly hurt Futoshi and claimed that it would be right for him to get angry with her. Through dishonesty with Futoshi, she reforms herself a little in praising Mitsuru for being so honest with her about his suffering and lack of trust in others.

Kokoro uses her interest in plants to bond with Mitsuru in Squad 13's greenhouse. After finding a book on pregnancy and childbirth, Kokoro develops a fascination with it and wonders why humans stopped having babies. Knowing her purpose in life is to pilot the FRANXX and to die in battle, Kokoro develops a desire to bear a child to leave a mark for the future. Through Mitsuru's influence, Kokoro slowly becomes more assertive and begins to honestly speak her mind. She also becomes bolder, more straightforward and somewhat impulsive, which is seen where after Mitsuru had said some very nice words to her, Kokoro simply kissed him in response and didn’t hesitate. She also explicitly lets Mitsuru know of her desire to join her body with his and create a new life.

After becoming a couple with Mitsuru, their wedding is interrupted by APE and their memories of each other are erased. She retains her kindness but is more focused on her duties and loyalty to Papa, and as a result is more distant with Mitsuru than anyone else. Once learning she is pregnant with Mitsuru’s child, she is distraught at having lost her purpose in life (the ability to pilot the FRANXX) and rejects Mitsuru’s support because of their memory loss. However, when he proves his resolution to stay with her and their child forever, they reconcile and rekindle their relationship. They are able to form a genuinely happy marriage and she is a loving mother to their children.

History
Like the other parasites, Kokoro was raised in the Garden to become a Pistil. She received the code name of "556," indicating that she did not receive special treatment from the adults. At some point, Hiro gives her the name of "Kokoro”. She is also shown to have been close friends with Miku since childhood.

Episode 01: Alone and Lonesome
The Parasites of Squad 13 discuss about the "Partner Killer" whose partner will die after the third time. Futoshi says he wouldn't ride with her. Goro walks in and asks if Ichigo got a hold of Hiro and she replies that she didn't. Futoshi says that he didn't attend that day's briefing, so maybe he's going to turn down the chance. Kokoro says it's sad if he leaves.

At Cerasus, the parasites attend their welcoming meeting where they are praised by Papa. The adults cheer for them.

During a klaxosaur attack, Kokoro overwatches as Strelizia easily defeats it. They are shocked when it's revealed that Hiro was piloting it.

Episode 02: What it Means to Connect
In the girls' changing room, Kokoro says that connecting in a FRANXX feels weird and hopes that they get used to it soon, since it's not at all like how their training units felt like. Miku fondles her stomach and describes it as her body being stirred up from the inside. 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 and now begin the drill, and that field decisions will be made by the leader unit, Delphinium. As they connect, some of the pistils shriek lightly. Hachi tells them that if two partners are even slightly out of sync, their para-capacity will fluctuate wildly. Kokoro and Futoshi manage to connect in their FRANXX and they compliment each other.

Kokoro later overwatches Hiro's mock exam battle against Miku and Zorome in their respective FRANXXs.Hachi declares it a draw.

Episode 03: Fighting Puppet
The Parasites discuss about the mock battle and if Hiro will truly be able to become a Parasite. Zorome and Miku begins to argue as they blame each other for their "loss". Kokoro warns them not to fight because it will affect their numbers.

Hachi later informs the Parasites that he received sortie orders from HQ. Nana tells them that the Klaxosaur won't be as big as the one they already saw. Hachi tells them that the klaxosaurs are attracted by magma energy reactions and appear in their vicinity. Lately, the klaxosaurs 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, so it can show whether they can handle fighting themselves in the future.

Kokoro connects with Futoshi and they head out along with only Delphinium and Argentea, since Chlorophytum had to stay behind. They head out to a big hole and marvel at it, realizing that they use the pipes to extract magma reserves. Hachi tells them to head down to the 8th floor to defeat it. They are able to defeat it but many more suddenly fall from the ceiling, so the Parasites 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 since they are now in a life or death situation. She gets permission to pilot, but with Mitsuru. Hachi soon tells them that Strelizia is about to help. Ichigo is bothered by this and causes them to fall, and this lets the klaxosaur to get in, so they flee. Many follow and a very large one is about to bite Ichigo. Strelizia appears and kills some and Mitsuru tells them to get back and Hachi tells them to evacuate.

When they retrieve Streliza, Kokoro sees Zero Two walking out, though Mitsuru is gravely injured and unconscious.

Episode 04: Flap Flap
Mitsuru had been traumatized with riding with Zero Two. When confronted by Hiro about it, he suddenly grabs Hiro's collar and says that she had a smile on her face all the time. Kokoro yells out to Mitsuru and Futoshi tells him to calm down as he hands the tray to Zorome. Mitsuru says that it will happen to Hiro too, if he decides to ride with her again and is out of mind.

The Parasites later discuss about Hiro and Zero Two, as well as the partner killing rumor. Miku says Zero Two is not human because she possesses klaxosaur blood. Ichigo says Hiro is well aware of all these rumors and situations but he still wants to ride with Zero Two. Ichigo reminds everyone that if things do not change, they could also die at any time, to which Kokoro agrees on. Ichigo says that they need to defeat klaxosaurs without Strelizia and cannot mess up again so as to survive. Ichigo asks others to help her and work in a team.

To prepare for the kissing with Plantation 26, Plantation 13 switches to mobile setup. HQ soon detects a worm-type klaxosaur heading towards Plantation 13 and Hachi tells them to connect to defeat the klaxosaurs. They are ravaged by more klaxosaurs in hiding and are struggling, until Strelizia quickly saves them and destroys the klaxosaurs.

Episode 05: Your Thorn, My Badge
Cerasus carries out the kissing with Chrysanthemum and the parasites watch as the plantations connect.

The Parasites of the 13th and 26th Plantation attend a grand ceremony. The next day, Kokoro says that the ceremony on the previous day was so exciting that she couldn't sleep. Miku says that 090 seemed nice and Kokoro asks if she would like to ride with him. She says that it is better than the boys they are stuck with, and tries to get Ikuno's opinion. They later discuss about Hiro achievements in the battles so far and Kokoro praises him and says that he shone in the previous battle. Hiro later enters and tells everyone that he will try his hardest to fight alongside them all and not be a burden. This makes Mitsuru angry and he leaves, and Kokoro notices him walk.

During breakfast, Zero Two takes in Futoshi's seat, so Kokoro invites Futoshi to sit beside her. After praying and thanking Papa, Zero Two begins feeding Hiro to which Zorome says that he wants to try something like that. Goro asks why he does not ask Miku then. He says that he would rather ask a cute girl like Kokoro. He notices that she is feeding Futoshi, much to his annoyance. Miku teases that Kokoro is too easily influenced.

Later in the greenhouse, Kokoro overwatches Mitsuru as he panicky asks why Hiro could ride with Zero Two and not him. He takes pills and chokes on them. Kokoro, who wanted to irrigate the plants, says that she saw him walk in and she asks if he is okay. She offers him her help since he does not lean on others, but he interrupts and asks if she is pitying him. She denies this, but he walks past her and tells her to leave him alone.

Hachi later announces that Squad 13's and Squad 26's Parasites will fight the klaxosaurs that had been detected. He explains that there are 100 to 150, and that they are expected to arrive at 33 hours from then.

Episode 06: DARLING in the FRANXX
A large klaxosaur crushes a tall building and approaches with an arrival time of 0210 hours. The bulwark in the last line of defense is 85 percent complete and will be completed by 2200 hours. Squads 26 and 13 are to stand by for combat by 2030.

Kokoro gets dressed as she says that the number of klaxosaurs are higher than estimated and wonders if they'll be okay and come back alive. 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 and tells Strelizia to stay back.

Unit 26 takes out a few klaxosaurs and 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, to which Kokoro thanks Ichigo for. 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. Strelizia then quickly defeats many klaxosaurs, but Zero Two and Hiro begin to disconnect.

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.

After Hiro recovered from his seemigly tumour, Strelizia creates an opening and defeats the klaxosaurs. Hiro and Zero Two walk out together and the squads groups celebrate.

Episode 07: Shooting Star Moratorium
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.

Kokoro serves a ball to Miku while Futoshi and Zorome admire their figures. Later, Miku and Kokoro call the group back since Mitsuru had found something "odd". Mitsuru leads the group through a thin pass, though 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, but Mitsuru 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. As everyone starts to explore various areas, Futoshi wonders where Kokoro went. Kokoro is revealed to be alone and comes by a medical office. She finds a book about childbirth and is thereafter suddenly called out by Mitsuru and he pulls her back before a bookcase falls on her. He asks her not to run off alone and she apologizes.

They walk back to the rest of the group and Miku says that she's exhausted and Kokoro agrees. The Parasites discuss about the city, confirming that it was part of civilization and that people in previous eras lived: on the surface. Back at the beach, food had been delivered. They all begin eating, and Miku teases Futoshi and Zorome by lying on Kokoro's lap. When Ichigo stands and officially welcomes Hiro and Zero Two to the squad, Kokoro says that she finds it reassuring that they're with them. The Parasites are then shown to sleep close together; Kokoro and Miku beside each other.

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 and they finish off the klaxosaur. Hiro finally tells Zero Two and the rest of the girls realize what's happened.

After the battle, the girls cover themselves with a towel and glare at their partners. 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, to which Kokoro turns red and looks away.

As the girls shower, they discuss what happened and wonder how long they had been ogling them. Kokoro says they're taking things a bit too far, and Miku suggest that they should live separately. The girls then begin splitting the area of the house between the boys and girls. Zorome begins to cross, but is threatened by Miku and stops. 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 Kokoro asks if he has an interest in plants as he tucks her baby book into her pocket. He denies it, as it is only a good place for being alone. Kokoro then tells Mitsuru that 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. Mitsuru doens't react and instead decides to walk out, and as she stands up, she drops her book. She quickly hides it but Mitsuru says that it doesn't matter to him and walks out.

At night, the girls get Zero Two to cooeparte with them: 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. The parasites continue to bicker when Nana suddenly interrupts. She and Hachi scold the group after they get dressed. Later in the girl's room, Zero Two 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 before leaving the room.

Kokoro finally musters up her courage to speak up about the whole feud: she tells the other girls that they need to begin working together again after looking at her book. She says that despite how flawed the boys are, they can only do things when they are together with boys, including piloting the FRANXX and, blushing, having children. Ichigo and Ikuno in the room feel that it is unusual for her to be so assertive. Miku however, refuses to end the fight. She flees and when the others become worried and decide to look for her, they find her in one of the sealed off rooms in the dorm, where they discover items related to the previous members of Squad 13, which were possibly killed in battle long ago. Kokoro comforts Miku who cries. After that, the boys and the girls finally make amends and resume their duties together.

Episode 09: Triangle Bomb
The parasites are happy to receive their gifts from Papa: Kokoro receives a sewing kit. She and Miku are happy about their gifts and smiles.

Later, Hachi tells the Parasites that they've detected a Gutenberg-class Klaxosaur 2,000 from there. Everyone gets ready and the FRANXX approach the klaxosaur and attempt to defeat it, but the klaxosaur multiply its jelly, and Goro quickly pushes them out but is stuck instead. He quickly launches Ichigo before it explodes.

To save Goro, Genista, Chlorophytum and Strelizia all help Ichigo to save Goro and get him out of the klaxosaur. Everyone later overwatches as Ichigo treats Goro's wounds and as they share a moment together.

Episode 10: The City of Eternity
Nana explains that everyone in Squad 13 has 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, which means they can go into the city.

The next morning, the kids stand at the door and they remark that Zorome looks cooler than usual. Zorome smugly agrees, and while the other boys mock him, Kokoro giggles and says that he does look a lot cooler. Miku tells Kokoro not to flatter him, causing she and Zorome to bicker again. Hachi and Nana open the door and they all leave. The children marvel at the city. At the ceremony, the mayor congratulates them and thanks them for their efforts.

After the ceremony, Kokoro and the other girls push Nana to let them walk back, and she reluctantly agrees. The children look around as they walk back, though Zorome wanders off and is separated. When Ichigo later announces that they found Zorome, everyone is relieved.

Episode 11: Partner Shuffle
As all the unit stands on guard, Futoshi tells Kokoro that they've grown stronger and Kokoro praises him by saying that it is thanks to him carrying her through. Futoshi says that she's his responsibility to which she giggles and thanks him. Blushing and nervous, he asks that she promise to be his partner forever, and Kokoro again smiles and agrees. Futoshi is happy and promises to always protect her. Miku suddenly interrupts and says he's gross, and Zorome agrees and says to cut off his comm. Kokoro giggles, but Futoshi reprimands them for listening.

After their fight, they discuss about Mitsuru's recent condition and Goro remarks how he has always been fragile, and Ichigo adds that he was the only one who received the Elixir Injection, a highly concentrated drug that induced yellow blood cell production and greatly increases parasite aptitude, and came back. Kokoro says that the injection has only a survival rate of 15% and didn't know he had such a risky procedure.

Due to the possible incompatibility of Ikuno and Mitsuru, Nana suggests that they try a "partner shuffle", 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 Kokoro about how she feels and she reluctantly agrees. 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. 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 and begins crying and Kokoro apologizes.

As they try out the new pairs, Genista's score crossed the minimum required, though it is in the lower range, it is stable.

In the greenhouse, Kokoro twirls around and hums with her doll, to which 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, since it seemed like having a baby was the most natural thing. Mitsuru replies that it's probably because they don't need to anymore, and 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 then asks why she volunteered to be his partner since it's had become troublesome as Futoshi hated him now. He asks if it was out of pity, but Kokoro denies this. Before she can continue, they are 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 by his ridiculous statement accordingly to himself, and Kokoro stops Futoshi 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.

The FRANXXs begin to attack the klaxosaurs; three get past and Chlorophytum goes after it and manage to kill one. Mitsuru struggles as well, and Kokoro says that there's no need to rush. Strelizia kills another one 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, the other FRANXXs, particarly Chlorophytum, protects them. Futoshi says that he'll protect her as they shoot into its foot.

As Kokoro suggest that they should start over again, he disconnects from the FRANXX's 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 enters them into radio silence. Kokoro says that he can rely on others more, and that she wants to have a mutual understanding and believing between each other since they are partners. Mitsuru asks if she's joking. Mitsuru then proceeds to tell Kokoro about his past and promise with Hiro and how he was betrayed by him. As he holds his head in his hands and cries, Kokoro says that must have deeply hurt him and comforts him. She says that she acted similarly towards Futoshi and that 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 too, then, and she calmly says that it's up to Mitsuru himself. She tells him that her point in saying this is that they aren't perfect like the adults, but she wants to have relationships with other people. As she says that she believes in him, she turns and begins to enter stampede mode. Mitsuru suddenly takes her out from the seat to prevent her fully going into stampede mode. Her actions make Mitsuru shocked and he asks how she can trust someone so much. As Kokoro gives Mitsuru a wry smile, he remarks how she is unbelievable with a smile on his face

Genista reconnects and they all work together to kill it. After the battle, Futoshi walks about to Mitsuru and asks why he was so reckless. Although Kokoro attmepts to stop Futoshi, Mitsuru stops her. Futoshi punches Mitsuru in the face and Kokoro rushes to care for him. Futoshi shouts at him before Mitsuru slowly says that he promises to protect Kokoro from now. This surprises Kokoro and Futoshi falls to his knees and says that he loved her.

Episode 12: The Garden Where It All Began
''Hiro narrates that where he came from doesn't matter to him, but he does about living life to its fullest. He thinks this is what it means to be human. Though he thought that Zero Two felt the same, he isn't sure.''

The episode opens 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.

''Hiro narrates that they are headed to the Garden; where they grew up. It's a parasite development facility where hundreds of children live. There is also the research hub (Nursery 3: Laboratory).''

As they walked into the lab. Miku says she saw it every day but never went inside. Kokoro says that very few children got to enter, though Hiro did a few times. Hiro says he was designated special research subject. When Futoshi adds that Mitsuru would have went there too, Hiro doesn't remember and Mitsuru is offended.

Nana tells them that they were brought to run tests on them. She says that they are banned from entering the Garden. When Goro and Ichigo wonder what they're being tested on, Hiro says that they're probably just tagging along with Zero Two. Hachi confirms that she in particular will undergo thorough testing.

The nines appear and 9'α says she must be there for maintenance as well. She walks away and he says she's the same as always. Kokoro wonders who he is and Miku says he's hot. Nana introduces them and 9'α says it's a pleasure to meet them. He asks that they escort Ioto safe and sound. Ichigo asks where he means. He says that they must know that all the plantations on the continent are currently heading there. Nana says she'll tell them later.

Hiro asks why she's called "Iota" and he says that she used to be a Nine as well. He says that he's surprised a normal squad could "tame" her. Ichigo says that she's one of them and that the "special forces" haven't been taught basic etiquette. She says that she'd rather fight along Zero Two than them. He laughs and says that they aren't a normal squad. He walks over and kisses Ichigo's hand.

Nana calls Squad 13 to leave. As they walk away, he says that he'd love to be part of their squad sometime. She says that they only have space in the attic and it wouldn't befit them. He says to himself that she's proud and dignified.

''Hiro asks Zero Two if something happened recently as she looks through books. He asks that she talk about it since they're partners. She asks to kiss. He agrees but backs up as she approaches. When she opens her mouth, he notices her teeth and she stops, saying to never mind.''

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.

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.

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.

9'a greets Zero Two and presents her with the stamen that Dr. FRANXX brought for her.

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.

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.

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 acting so cool for.

Zero Two thinks she was human, though she pretended, she wished to become one. 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. 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.

Futoshi, Kokoro, and Miku do the 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 the boxes and puts it in his pocked.

Mitsuru and Hiro inspect Cerasus' water sources. 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 his rations 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 on Ikuno 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, smiling, 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.

Mitsuru went to the greenhouse and asked Kokoro to cut his hair. She was confused, questioning where that request came from but upon seeing Mitsuru timidly look down, she merrily accepted. As she cuts, Mitsuru wondered what he was hoping for with Hiro. He admitted that 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. Kokoro gets down on her knees and kisses him. Mitsuru is quite surprised and does not say anything. Kokoro, embarrassed, apologizes and runs away.

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 only 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 doesn'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, remarking how there are cookbooks in the library. Kokoro says that maybe they could do it then. They all agree, except for Zorome who pouts.

When Futoshi starts a fire, he tries to show Zorome. Zorome 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, awkwardly smiled and scratched his head, saying he 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 Futoshi is forcing himself to eat and throwing it back up. Though Futoshi 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.

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.

Episode 17: Eden
Kokoro reads her baby book by the greenhouse. The Nines later arrive and they tell Squad 13 that they came to check on Papa's orders. The are to stay at Squad 13's house for a while.

During evening, 9'δ looks through the hallway when she almost bumps into Kokoro. She holds her before she falls and asks if she's okay. Kokoro thanks her and asks what she's doing. She says that she's exploring the place and asks that she doesn't tell the others. She agrees to and bows after saying goodnight. On the ground, she notices her baby handbook. In the glass building, 9'δ brings the book to the other nines. 9'α notes that it covers things that Papa hadn't taught anyone. Kokoro smiles as she plays with a doll in her room.

Kokoro brushes Mitsuru's hair in the greenhouse. She says that, since the Nines are there, someone should be coming to get them soon. Mitsuru says that he'll be a bit sad to leave, since they only began spending time together after he came there. She smiles and begins patting his head. She slides her hand down the nape of his neck, to his confusion. She says that his body is much tougher than a girl's. She rubs his chest and says that boys and girls have such different bodies, and there's a reason. Mitsuru asks what she means. She says she read that boys and girls can create new life by joining their bodies together. She gulps and undoes his shirt, saying that it represents hope for them. He shoves her hand away and stands, asking what she's doing.

Before she can explain, Zorome asks if they just tried to stick their bodies together and if they're imitating Hiro and Zero Two. Mitsuru zips up his shirt and asks if he needed something. He says that he was supposed to be on water duty. When he asks again what they were doing, he says he'll get the water. He stomps off saying to hurry up then. Mitsuru asks why she did that out of nowhere. She says she'd been thinking about it for a long time.

When Hiro and Mitsuru enter the living room, Miku says that he's there. Smiling, Ichigo says that Zorome told them about him and Kokoro. Futoshi suddenly grabs Mitsuru's collar and asks if they'd kissed. Kokoro looks down and blushes, and they realize they had. They are interrupted by the Nines entering the room.

9'α holds up the childbirth handbook and asks if they recognize it. With Kokoro and Mitsuru's reaction, he says that they do. He asks for an explanation from Kokoro, since she's the one who dropped it. He says that it's strange, since it wouldn't have been provided in the study there, and it doesn't belong to her. Kokoro apologizes for not telling them all. She turns to her squad and says she wants to make a baby. This confuses the other parasites. 9'α smiles and says that Papa had banned that. Goro asks Mitsuru if she said anything, and he fidgets uncomfortably.

Kokoro turns back to the Nines and asks if it's so bad since it's how all humans were born. Futoshi asks if Papa didn't create them. She says they were born like any other animal and it had always been like that for all living things. She says that's why they have boys and girls. She says that she wants to leave something behind before she's gone. She happily explains that their purpose in life isn't just to ride FRANXX and that they could carry new lives and leave them for the future. She says that it made her happy to hear that, but she is interrupted by 9'a calling her disgusting. When she turns to him, he says that she's disgusting.

He explains that humans have evolved and cast their reproductive functions aside in the process. Reject that, and they all have to go back to conforming to one gender. He asks if gender isn't just a pain that's tolerated to operate the FRANXX. Kokoro has tears in her eyes and Mitsuru begins to say something, but Ikuno suddenly walks up and slaps him. Ikuno asks what it matters if it's a pain. alpha says that humans have also cast away their tendency to be ruled by emotions like her since it serves no purpose. He smiles and tells them to look at themselves, though. Ikuno begins to walk up to him, but is pulled back by Goro and Ichigo. Nana and Hachi appear and ask them to stop.

Nana exclaims that this is why she didn't want to let the Nines in. Hachi says that Papa sent them, so they couldn't just turn them away. She says that they should put an end to their test now to which Kokoro asks what she means. Hachi says that it was on Dr. FRANXX's orders that they didn't contact them over the past month and that it would be their final test. Though they still monitored them, and know what she was trying to do with Mitsuru. Nana says that no one can speak of that, let alone do it. When Kokoro asks why they have organs for reproduction, Nana says to pilot the FRANXX. She asks what her feelings are for then, and Nana has a blurred flashback and then swipes at Kokoro before clutching her head. She tells her to be quiet. Hachi tells her to return to her dorm and they'll give her her orders in time and Kokoro runs out of the room.

Mitsuru leaves the greenhouse and finds Kokoro crying on one of the beds. She says she was wrong and apologizes for trying to force him to go along with it. He tells her not to and says she wasn't forcing him to do anything. She says he's lying and tells him not to try and be nice. She asks that he leave her alone. As she walks out, he grabs her arm and refuses. He pulls her into a hug and asks for her to lean on him more because he wants to make her happy. She asks if it was so bad to create a new life and if they aren't allowed to think about the future. He kisses her and she pulls him closer to her, and they sleep together.

Episode 18: When the Sakura Blooms
Mitsuru wakes up after spending the night with Kokoro. They look out the window together where sakura petals float in the wind. He says it's beautiful and she agrees.

Hiro explains to the parasites that he wants to have a wedding. As they don't know what it is, Hiro explains that it was a ceremony where two people would make a vow together. Miku asks who will get married. Hiro says Kokoro and Mitsuru. Kokoro says that Hiro told them about it and it sounded wonderful. Mitsuru says they decided to do it before leaving. Goro, Miku, and Zorome voice their support. Though they stop to check on Futoshi, he exclaims that he wants to play the priest so he can be right beside Kokoro and Mitsuru to congratulate them. Kokoro thanks him.

Zero Two shows Kokoro a drawing of a wedding dress. Kokoro asks what material they can use to make it. Miku and Ichigo collect curtains to do so. Ichigo looks around the abandoned room that the couple slept in and notices a camera. Mitsuru and Goro make rings for the wedding and Mitsuru explains what they're for. When Goro says that Kokoro will love it, Mitsuru blushes and says he hopes so.

The parasites paint the side of the house and they all later pose for a picture.

The next day, Mitsuru paces at the bottom of the stairs. Kokoro comes down in her wedding dress. Mitsuru looks at her but becomes embarrassed and looks away. She takes his hand and says they'll find happiness together. Ikuno runs down the stairs and gives them each flowers and then opens the doors.

Futoshi tells the couple to exchange rings. After they do, Futoshi tells them to kiss. Before they can, they are interrupted by APE SP who tell them to freeze. Futoshi stands in front of them and tells them to run. They do, but are stopped by the nines. Alpha tells them that Papa said they were dangerous and need to be re-indoctrinated.

Zero Two leaps forward and tries to attack him, and the other Nines are able to defeat her. APE take Mitsuru and Kokoro and tear them from each other. Kokoro screams out for Mitsuru and cries.

At the Bird Nest, Ikuno says the parasites are being summoned in order. The stamen talk about how it's been weeks since their last mission. Ichigo gets a message and they go to the door. Kokoro and Mitsuru walk through. Though they still have their rings, they don't remember the wedding or each other. Hachi watches them as well.

Kokoro walks through a hall and appears to see a sakura tree, although there is no sakura there.

Episode 19: Inhumanity
Futoshi shouts at Kokoro and says that she isn't changing his mind and storms off. Mitsuru asks what they were talking about, and she says he doesn't want to be her partner anymore and that he'll team up with Ikuno and he wants her to team up with Mitsuru. They're both confused, and Mitsuru says that they keep telling them all this stuff that happened between them, but neither of them remembers anything. He says he doesn't believe he'll develop feelings for her and she agrees.

Goro says that Mitsuru and Kokoro were implanted with fake memories. Ichigo wonders if their memories are lost forever. Futoshi asks if what they did warranted their memories being erased. Hiro asks Papa that Misturu and Kokoro's memories be returned. Papa refuses and says that they removed the unnecessary information and there is no way to return them. Hiro says that they took away Zero Two and his precious memories as well as Kokoro and Mitsuru's. He says they can't see him as their Papa and to set them free once the battle is over. Papa agrees, as long as they fulfill their duties in next mission.

Episode 20: A New World
Nana's replacement explains to the parasites that the Star Entity is now under their control and they'll be booting it up the next day. The FRANXX squads are tasked with keeping all enemies away from it.

Futoshi tells Goro that both Kokoro and Mitsuru took off their rings. Kokoro suddenly spills her water and runs to the bathroom to throw up. Miku, Ichigo, and Ikuno follow her and Ikuno says that it'd been happening a lot lately. Ichigo says maybe she shouldn't go along with the upcoming mission. She says she must for Papa, even if it would cost her. Miku hugs her and says that none of them are his and they have to leave their mark on the future, just like she said.

After the Parasite assembly, the 9's mock Squad 13. Zero Two steps forward and says they're all stronger than them, since they have their eyes on the future. This shocks Kokoro especially.

An announcer says that a klaxosaur pack is headed towards Gran Crevasse. The parasites all head out. Kokoro rubs her ring finger and Mitsuru says that since they were partners before, they should be able to connect. At the Gran Crevasse ruins, the FRANXX attack the klaxosaur. When Mitsuru compliments Kokoro, he has a pain in his head when saying her name. Genista struggles, and Kokoro gets the same pain when saying "Mitsuru." They are supported by the others a while and later returns to the battle.

Episode 21: For You, My Love
The parasites watch as VIRM kills other parasites. They wonder who they should be fighting. The parasites wonder what they should do and worry about what the announcement said. They agree to return to Gran Crevasse to see for themselves.

As Unit 13 continues, they run into the 9's. They command them to return and continue to follow Papa's orders. The FRANXX break through and they help Zero Two to Hiro to save him. Ikuno and Futoshi clear a path and let Zero Two go alone with Ichigo and Goro. Kokoro shows her devotion to defeat the VIRM enemies, and Argentea helps them with that.

Episode 22: Stargazers
Squad 13 works together harvesting plants to survive with the limited amount of rations left. During a meeting, Kokoro becomes nauseous and leaves to go rest. While working in the fields and seeing more klaxosaurs leave to fight VIRM, Kokoro suffers from nausea again and faints. In the infirmary, the new Nana tells Kokoro she is pregnant. Kokoro is confused on what ‘pregnancy’ means. After being explained what it is, she is distraught as the new Nana explains a pregnant pistil cannot pilot a FRANXX and gives her the choice of terminating the pregnancy and continue piloting or keeping the baby but discontinue piloting before leaving. Kokoro begs for an answer on what she should do before Miku comforts her and sends the boys, including a shocked Mitsuru who realizes he is the father of her unborn child, out of the room.

Kokoro keeps to herself in her room holding her stomach, as she struggles with what to do. Mitsuru tries to see her but he is unable to bring himself to do so.

When Squad 13 gets ready to leave to go after Zero Two, Kokoro and Mitsuru stay behind because her pregnancy makes her incapable of piloting FRANXX.

Episode 23: DARLING in the FRANXX
As the other parasites leave for space, Kokoro asks Mitsuru why he stayed behind and he says he wanted to because it’s his responsibility. Kokoro says she didn’t expect anything from him to be because they don’t remember.

Kokoro tends to Zero Two as new injuries start showing up on her body and she tries to stop Zero Two from walking away. Kokoro starts to feel hopeless because she is not a parasite anymore and she rubs her stomach.

The effects of the battle create a dangerous storm and Kokoro tries shielding Zero Two. Mitsuru orders her to get inside but she refuses because she wants to protect Zero Two. Mitsuru says it will be bad for her body but Kokoro breaks down that she is no longer a parasite and has nothing left to live for but the least she can do is protect Zero Two. To her surprise, Mitsuru says if she has nothing, then neither does he but he has found a reason to live: protecting her and their baby. He shows her his wedding ring and says, even if they don’t have their memories, they can start over. Kokoro shows she still has her wedding ring and calls out to Mitsuru.

When the storm passes, Kokoro and Mitsuru watch Zero Two suddenly smile and her body turn into a statue. They are then seen holding hands and wearing their wedding rings. The

Episode 24: Never Let Me Go
Kokoro’s pregnancy starts to become obvious when she says her stomach is getting bigger. The new Nana makes arrangements to get her pregnancy clothes and have her monitored because she is the first parasite to bear a child. Kokoro requests she get no special treatment but the new Nana insists because, as the first pregnant parasite, Kokoro must set a precedent for the others.

Kokoro later teaches some of the girls how to knit and Mitsuru asks her if she needs him to do anything but she assures him she is fine. Futoshi and Zorome run to Kokoro and offer her food they say is full of good nutrients, and she thanks them. They then get ready to head back to the fields and have to drag Mitsuru, who is reluctant to leave her.

245 days since the gate passage, Kokoro gives birth to a baby girl. Mitsuru rushes to her hospital room and cries when he sees his daughter. Kokoro asks the baby, whom they name Ai, to call Mitsuru “papa”. Kokoro spends her time taking care of Ai and helping with day to day chores.

Two years later, Ai looks at Zero Two’s statue and begins saying “Darling”. Her parents hear this and alert everyone, who hold hands and send their thoughts to Hiro and Zero Two. After the two sacrifice themselves to destroy VIRM, Kokoro breaks down in tears and hugs Ai.

Eight years pass and Kokoro attends a school ceremony with Mitsuru and it is revealed they had two more children and are expecting their fourth. Squad 13 later reunites at a cherry blossom tree and thank Hiro and Zero Two for everything.

Mitsuru
Kokoro is the first to notice that something is still wrong with Mitsuru, after he tried pilotting with Zero Two. From there on, they have random walk-ins with one another mainly inside the greenhouse. Despite his aloof demeanor, she offers him help, but, he refuses it and sees it as Kokoro is pitying him.

When exploring the abandoned city, Mitsuru tells everyone that he can't look after all of them. Yet, nevertheless, he was the one to find Kokoro, who had wandered off on her own, and save her from being injured from falling debris. Despite seeing that Kokoro found a book and is taking it, Mitsuru keeps quiet about it and reminds her to not go off on her own. Even later on, Mitsuru says that the book is her matter, and not his, so, she shouldn't worry about him revealing its existence.

Kokoro shows great interest in Mitsuru, initiating conversations and topics with him, whenever they meet at the Greenhouse. She talks about plants and tells him their many names and meanings, and also talks about humans having children, afterwards.

When the boys and girls start a "gender conflict", due to the events of Episode 08, Kokoro wonders if he is truly okay with talking to her and, just like Mitsuru, shows no interest in taking part of the "fight". However, unlike Mitsuru, she is not honest about it and praises him for being so open about his opinion.

By Episode 11, Kokoro shows further interest in Mitsuru, even going as far as to break her promise with Futoshi and become Mitsuru's partner. Despite Mitsuru's insistence that she was only doing it out of pity, Kokoro manages to talk it out with him and convince him to trust her and the others much more.

In Episode 16, Mitsuru went to the greenhouse and asked Kokoro to cut his hair. She was confused, questioning where that request came from but upon seeing Mitsuru timidly look down, she merrily accepted. Mitsuru remarked on how he had been unfair to Hiro and the guilt that he currently feels. Kokoro listened and comforted him, getting down on her knees and kissing him. Mitsuru was quite surprised and Kokoro apologized over and over for acting to her instinct.

In Episode 17, Kokoro, due to her growing feelings for Mitsuru and her desire to bear a child, made a sudden sexual proposition to Mitsuru. He was confused and rebuffed her. Kokoro later opened up her feelings about wanting to have a child to leave a mark in the future, but she was berated by the Nines for this and she was saddened. Soon after that, Mitsuru comforted Kokoro, leading to a passionate kiss and they have sex for the first time.

In Episode 18, Kokoro and Mitsuru decide to have an outdoor wedding, but the 9’s quickly inform Papa of this and the two are detained in the middle of their wedding. They are later reincorporated back into Unit 13 with no recollection of their past memories, as Papa had brainwashed them both into believing false memories about one another. Kokoro and Mitsuru talk to each other about how the squad believes that they were once in a serious relationship, but Mitsuru and Kokoro both agree that they would never do such a thing in the first place. Kokoro attempts to become partners again with Futoshi, but he insists that she stay with Mitsuru.

In Episode 20, the two take off their wedding rings. While Futoshi and Goro are talking about this, Kokoro suddenly becomes sick due to morning sickness, tossing her cup of water to the floor, and rushes to a nearby bathroom. Ichigo and the others look on in sorrow as Kokoro tries to explain how she will continue to fight for Papa regardless. Later in the episode, Mitsuru and Kokoro decide to pilot together, and they do a very well job in the beginning of the battle. However, while giving a compliment to Kokoro, he accidentally calls her by her nickname (“Kokoro”) and triggers a memory as a painful flash. With no recollection of the past, the two are fear-stricken and shut down their FRANXX in the middle of the fight, forcing Ichigo to come to their aid and protect them. They do not continue in the fight afterwards.

In Episode 22, Kokoro finds out she is pregnant with Mitsuru’s child. Faced with the choice of terminating the pregnancy and continue piloting or keeping the baby and quit piloting, she is left feeling distraught on what she should do. Mitsuru is so shocked by the news he falls to the ground and later expresses his own dilemma on what he should do. He tries to see Kokoro as she ponders this alone but he still doesn’t know what to do. Because Kokoro is unable to pilot a Franxx due to her pregnancy, she and Mitsuru don’t accompany the rest of Sqaud 13 to help Hiro save Zero Two while she is subconsciously battling the VIRM.

In Episode 23, Kokoro makes it known to Mitsuru that she doesn’t expect anything from him due to their memory loss despite his insistence that he wants to support her. Afterwards, Kokoro tells Mitsuru she has nothing left to live for since she’s not a parasite anymore. Disagreeing, Mitsuru says that if she has nothing, he doesn’t either but his reason for living now is to protect her and their child, and and wants to start over with her. They show each others wedding rings that they kept, and they were seen holding hands together wearing back their wedding rings.

In Episode 24, when her pregnancy becomes more obvious, Mitsuru becomes protective of her and Kokoro appreciates his support. When she gives birth to their daughter, Ai, Mitsuru sheds tears and Kokoro asks Ai to call him “papa”. Their relationship becomes more affectionate following the birth. After the 10-year timeskip, they are still happily married and have three children with a fourth on the way.

Futoshi
She gets along exceedingly well with her partner, comforting and complimenting him. During their first time in Genista they flash each other a thumbs up in the cockpit before beginning, and Kokoro reassures him he did a good job as they take their first steps.

They seem to have, as Zorome describes, a "lovey-dovey" relationship. In Episode 05, Kokoro offers Futoshi the seat next to her when Zero Two takes his spot, and she then hand-feeds him toast, imitating what Zero Two is doing to Hiro.

Despite their interactions, it is revealed by Episode 11 that Kokoro seemed to hold back her true feelings with Futoshi, showing that she did not feel the same as he did. Later, this led her to breaking their promise and switching partners, devastating Futoshi. However, Kokoro admits feeling bad about it and tells Mitsuru that she thinks of herself as a bad person for having done it.

By Episode 12, Kokoro has demonstrated no further apprehension of what she did, although, she seems to be on good terms with Futoshi, especially after Mitsuru promises to protect Kokoro.

They remained friendly, so much so that Futoshi shows his full support for Kokoro and Mitsuru’s relationship when they make it known and he even presided over their wedding, and congratulates them after their daughter’s birth.

Miku
As they were friends since childhood, they maintain a close relationship.

Ai
Ai is Kokoro and Mitsuru’s daughter. Although she was shocked to find out she was pregnant and undecided on what to do, Kokoro came to love her child and, when Ai was born, Kokoro became a loving mother to her daughter.

Etymology
Kokoro's nickname may use some of the numeral's readings from her real name "Code:556": ko, an alternative spelling of "5" and ro as in 6. Kokoro is also the Japanese word for "heart", reflecting Kokoro's caring and kindhearted personality.

Quotes
"I believe in you, Mitsuru."

- Kokoro

"We lived our lives believing our only purpose was to ride the FRANXX into battle. But you know what? That might not be true! We could carry new lives and leave them for the future. When I learned about that, I was very happy"

- Episode 17; Kokoro says this to Squad 13 and the 9's

Trivia

 * Kokoro is the first parasite to give birth to a child.
 * Kokoro and Mitsuru’s code names 556 and 326, when added together, equal 882, which translates to ‘hahani’, meaning “To become a mother”.
 * This foreshadows the conception and birth of their child.

Кокоро