Hiro

 is the main protagonist of DARLING in the FRANXX.

Though he was formerly seen as a prodigy parasite with a code of "016", he was unable to pilot until he was partnered with Zero Two in Strelizia.

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, his canines have further developed due to his "saurification".

In Episode 17 it's revealed that a tiny pair of blue horns has been growing on his forehead, hidden behind his bangs.

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 aptitude skill began to dip after he ingested a young Zero Two's blood years before. This inability to pilot a 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. (Ironically enough, the only reason he could pilot with her was because he ingested blood from her wound years before.) 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 have fallen in love with her, even before he was discharged from the Garden.

Episode 01: Alone and Lonesome
''Hiro narrates that he read about the Jian in a book he read a long time ago. He notes that it has to hide among tree leaves until it finds a partner and dream of the day it can take flight into the skies. He wonders what a bird that cannot fly goes, but says he knows well. ''

Hiro sits up and finds that Ichigo messaged him. She says that their briefing 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 looks down in her plane. Suddenly, she widened her eyes and exclaimed:"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.

''Hiro narrates that it was like he was put under a spell. Her two alluring horns and his first look at a naked female body left him transfixed.''

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 Mistilteinn's issued a search request for him. As he's dragged along, he finds the bloody corpse of the bird.

He finishes that he's all too aware that a flightless bird has nowhere to go.

At Cerasus, the parasites attend their welcoming meeting where they are praised by Papa. The adults cheer for them. 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 Naomi and Hiro try to connect, their positive pulse and P-Factor drops and they're times out and they fail. 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.

In the train, the group discuss Hiro on their way to the startup ritual. Ikuno says that their ship probably isn't headed back to the garden since she never heard of any parasites coming back home. Hachi greets them at the platform.

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.

The other parasites begin the startup ritual but was stalled by the approaching fog. It was a Klaxosaur. The plantation begins firing at the klaxosaur and Strelitzia was caught in the crossfire. Dr. FRANXX notes it's a Maho class and Nana orders everyone to evacuate.

Strelitzia was thrown to a nearby wall as the Klaxosaur falls unconscious. Zero Two emerges from its cockpit and throws 081's dead body out of her FRANXX, telling Hiro that he's done for. She then got back in Strelitzia but Hiro tries to stop her from piloting alone. Zero Two replied that it'll start moving again eventually and then everyone will die, remarking that she's not afraid of death and she has a job to do. Hiro asked to pilot with her. Zero Two questions if he's prepared to die. His reply was that he's essential dead already and asks to be taken along. Smiling, she told Hiro that they're similar and it'd been a long time since she last saw a human cry.

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

Strelizia easily destroys the Maho-class Klaxosaur core and defeats it. Other members of Squad 13 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 at 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 unfimiliar 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.

...

At APE Central HQ Council, it is announced that a Mahorovic-class Klaxosaur was neutralized by Strelitzia near Plantation 13: Cerasus, bringing Cerasus' magma fuel stockpile down to 54%. They request kissing with Plantation 26. The Lamarck Club authorizes it and the kissing commences in 175 hours.

Lemur says they received word that Strelizia has stayed back at Plantation 13. One says that Dr. FRANXX spoils her. One notes that it seems that Hiro's a rare sample without signs of physical aging. Gorilla notes that with no established cause, mixing with the special specimen will taint her blood and must be recalled at once. Papa says that she shone in battle and they should wait and see.

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. Miku says that they "double-digit elites" must be made for each other. He mocks Hiro for being so lovey-dovey. This annoys Ichigo and she storms out.

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.

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.

Zero Two smugly flicks her hair as she leaves. Hiro apologizes. Ichigo says not to apologize and "you were awful."

Episode 03: Fighting Puppet
''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. '' 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.

Nana says that Hiro is the first sample that piloted with Zero Two and taken so little damage. Hachi says that he failed to common connect with Delphinium, but was compatible with Strelizia, even though he was unconscious. They wonder is it's because of the special specimen.

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 rumors that her partner can only ride with her three times without dying. Hiro says that it is just a rumor. 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.

Inside, Futoshi asks what happened with Hiro becoming a parasite. Ikuno says he could only connect for a bit at the start, so she doesn't like his chances. Zorome says that there's no way he'll get in. Mitsuru says that he doesn't know about the ones who only managed a draw against that, either. Zorome says that it was Miku's fault for randomly falling over. Miku angrily asks if he remember what he said when that happened.

Kokoro warns them not to fight because it will affect their numbers. Ikuno says that she doesn't think Papa will accept a parasite who can't pilot. Futoshi agrees and says that so many kids disappeared from the Garden due to that.

Miku says that Ichigo is no better. She says that she's too biased towards Hiro when she's supposed to be their leader. She says she doesn't understand how Goro's putting up with her as her partner. Ichigo asks what Goro has to do with it. Goro also walks in and asks what they're talking about. Annoyed, Ichigo says that, if Hiro becomes a parasite, he'll be a great help. Miku says that he might not even. Ichigo says that he still has a chance, and Miku disagrees. She says that he couldn't get it done with her, so I think it's over for him. She says that he piloted Strelizia, even if he was unconscious, and saved them, so she still believed in him.

Mitsuru says that he understands why she wants to stick up for him, but he was only taken along for the ride. Ichigo yells that they don't know that. Mitsuru says that Hiro was special, even among the double digits, and they were all certain that he'd be their leader. But in reality, he couldn't become a parasite and he isn't what he used to be. He says that they should cut their losses because he doesn't want to see the pathetic side of Hiro anymore.

Hiro practises 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.

Miku wakes up and Zorome hugs her. They begin piloting again. Hachi tells them that Strelizia is about to help. Ichigo is bothered by this and causes them to fall. 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. Mitsuru tells them to get back and Hachi tells them to evacuate.

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.

...

Hiro walks in and asks what happened with Zero Two. Mitsuru replied 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.

Mitsuru says he hopes Ikuno can connect. She says she can and they connect. The FRANXX advance forward.

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 told Hiro and Zero Two to do as they say. She says Zero Two'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. She then placed her forehead on his as a way of saying goodbye. Hiro flinched as her horn poked his forehead. She says "Bye-bye" before following them out. Nana then says that the order was from Papa and the rest. He asks if the partner-killer rumors are true. She answers that she's a special pistil who must keep fighting on the front lines and that she takes a toll on the stamen who become partners with her. She answers that she isn't simply human. He suddenly runs out and Nana calls out to him.

As Zero Two walks through the hall, she turns and looks behind her. A soldier points his gun and asks her what's wrong. She answers nothing and keeps walking. Hiro comes to a passage he cannot cross and yells to her. She stops briefly but then continues. He says that he was afraid of riding together and he still is, but because he lacked resolve, not because she isn't human. When he first met her, he couldn't take his eyes off of her. Though he had been moping, he felt like he could fly with her. He realized that he never really cared about riding the FRANXX, but about riding with her. He asks that she doesn't leave.

Zero Two stops and smiles. Though two soldiers order her to keep going, she says she can't leave after that. She manages to take one of their guns and break through his glass. She stands close to him and says that nobody's ever said such embarrassing things to her before. He says it was a first for him too. Smirking, she asks if he wants to ride her and he answers, embarrassed. They dance through the gate together. Zero Two pulls him along and they board Strelizia.

Naomi appears on screen and orders them off, but Zero Two ignores her and hangs up. She asks Hiro if he's okay and he is nervous about piloting. She encourages him and they successfully connect.

They fly through the air and Hiro is happy to be able to pilot. They discuss their feelings of connection and Zero Two says they're a perfect fit. They zip to where the other parasites are struggling and quickly save them. Ichigo is reluctant to rely on her. When Hiro challenges this, Mitsuru seems offended. Ichigo agrees and tells everyone where to focus. Strelizia rips it from the ground and reveals it was actually one long klaxosaur. Strelizia stabs its core, destroying it. Hachi announces that they neutralized it and to return to base.

Nana wonders if she was always planning it all along. Hachi says that the numbers prove that Hiro is compatible with Strelizia. He wonders how Papa and the rest will react. They plantation begins to move.

Hiro narrates that he always dreamed of the day he could take flight, but now he may have found a pair of wings to call his own. Even if they destroy him, he can at least fly once more.

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

''Hiro narrates that, when he and Zero Two first met, she told him, "a kiss is a very special thing." He wonders if the adults kiss and who likened plantations making contact to a kiss.''

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.

When Ichigo leaves, Goro is outside waiting for her. In the elevator, he asks what she thinks about how he was acting. She says that it had been a long time since she saw him smile so much. Goro asks if it didn't seem forced. He asks that she talk to Hiro, but she says they have to worry about themselves, since the next battle will be difficult.

In the greenhouse, Mitsuru panicky asks why him and not Hiro as he takes pills. He chokes on them and asks what the difference is between them. He notices that Kokoro was watching him. She says she saw him walk in and asks if he's okay, and says that she wants to help, since he doesn't lean on others. He interrupts and asks if she's pitying him. She says no, but he walks past her and tells her to leave him alone.

Ichigo makes Zero Two's bed and says that the room is hers to use. She says that she'd rather be with Hiro, but Ichigo says she needs to follow their rules and asks her to take care of Hiro. She says that Hiro's hers and she doesn't need to tell her that. Ichigo says that he doesn't belong to anyone. Zero Two calls her bossy.

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.

The children of Plantation 13 and 26 met in the Hangar and had a chat. 090 was intrigued by the un-uniform FRANXX designs, saying that all of Plantation 26's FRANXX looked the same to make it easier to fight.

090 says that their names are strange and asks if Code 016 was the one who came up with them. He says that he's famous among children. He says that they're strange and asks what the point of being unique is.

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.

Outside of the greenhouse, Ichigo asks that she stay in line during the mission. Zero Two calls her bossy and begins to walk off. Ichigo grabs her arm, but Zero Two isn't slowed down and yanks her along, so she stops walking. She yanks her hand away and Ichigo asks that she not be too hard on Hiro. Zero Two says that he wanted to ride with her and asks if she wants her to give him to her. She says that she tried to ride with him and it didn't work. Ichigo says to leave her out of it and asks if she's trying to suck Hiro dry. Zero Two says again that he's hers. Ichigo says that he could die. Zero Two replies that he could, but that would just mean that he didn't amount to much.

Ichigo slaps her and her headband falls off. She says that she isn't human. Zero Two's eyes and horns turn red. She asks what "human" is to them. It starts raining, so Zero Two looks up.

When Ichigo walks back, Goro tosses her a towel and says she'll catch a cold. She asks if he saw everything, and he said he did. Ichigo expresses her helplessness. Goro doesn't understand his feelings or how to comfort her.

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.

''Hiro narrates that, even if the wings he reached out and grabbed are to snap one day, he'll still take flight into the sky. Because he feels that's why he's there.''

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 sasy 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 encourages 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.

Some 9's watch the battle and 9'α says that they're really hitting it off.

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

Episode 07: Shooting Star Moratorium
Unit 13 was rewarded with a trip to the beach after their successful mission. They had fun at the beach and discovered an abandoned settlement.

Episode 08: Boys x Girls
Zero Two was the one who brought the conflict between the boys and the girls to a new level, leading both of them into the bath naked and stealing all of their clothes. Hiro pursued her to the roof, where she tossed an entire basket of clothes at him. They both laughed and Zero Two performs a leap of faith, escaping from sight as a surprised Hiro laughs.

Episode 09: Triangle bomb
Hiro assists Ichigo in rescuing Goro.

Episode 10: The city of eternity
He and Squad 13 ventures into Cerasus Inner City.

Episode 11: Partner Shuffle
He accompanies Squad 13 on a sortie against a Gutenberg-class Klaxosaur.

Episode 12: The Garden Where It All BeganEdit
Hiro and Squad 13 returns to the Garden. She is anxious and came to the library with Hiro to find a picture book. She nearly sank her teeth in Hiro's neck but luckily, she was still conscious enough to realize what she's doing. Problems later arose as she goes on a Klaxosaur killing spree. When she was ordered to return, she attacked other members of Squad 13 and strangled Hiro. Their minds merged through Strelitzia.

Episode 13: The Beast and the Prince
Hiro connects deeply with the consciousness of Zero Two and catches a glimpse of the memory that flows from there. It was a memory of their childhood, Hiro remembers that they had once met when she was nameless and unable to speak

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.

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 Gran 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

"I'm your partner. I'm not going to leave you alone."

- Episode 6

"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

"The picture book... You were the girl with the picture book back then, weren't you?"

- Episode 13

"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

Trivia

 * Hiro gave everyone in Squad 13 their names except for Ikuno.

Хиро