"An entire squad of FRANXX were wiped out this morning. Plantation 13 assisted Plantation 21 against an attack from a Gutenberg-class Klaxosaur at 0600. The resulting battle killed both the Klaxosaur and the cadets from Plantation 13. As it stands, we have no readily available Parasites to replace them."

The silence that followed was all too calm as seven men in ornate, white robes sat suspended in chairs, screens surrounding them showing the results of the battle and further data of the so-called Parasite program. Images flitted around as the men sat stolid and unmoving, adorned with masks as pristine as the rest of their appearance.

"If I may offer a suggestion?" A new voice rang out, accompanied by an addition to the screens. An older man appeared, his face masked by both an appearance of world-weariness and the metal that covered its right half. His natural eye shone bright on-screen, as if something new and exciting had occurred to him.

"Allow me to run an experiment with Plantation 13 using younger pilots. If we can test the limits of the FRANXX, we may solve our present issue of increasing Klaxosaur attacks." He paused, as if expecting a response from his audience. To his lack of surprise, he received none. APE was many things, but they were not an emotive bunch. With a mental sigh, he continued. "The Garden has several pilots nearing of age. Enough to form a five unit squad. They've already familiarized themselves with the equipment basics and would essentially be missing combat training. I don't think that would be too difficult to address with your blessing, chairman."

"An interesting proposal, Werner." the apparent leader responded, his golden mask turning to face the other man. "You believe the risks of losing such pilots would be acceptable?"

"Some of those you are mentioning are high aptitude pilots. They should be allowed to finish their training before we send them into the field, it's too great a risk to lose them before they are ready," countered another, this one with a mask of a gorilla. The old doctor shook his head.

"We don't have the time to argue the point I'm afraid. That is why I recommend a temporary reassignment of Code 002 to act as leader for the Parasites until such a time comes that they can function without her and she is able to return to the front lines."

"Are you certain about this, Doctor?"

"I am. Provide the reserve stamens as always and I'm certain we can make it work for the time being. I believe she has yet to devour her latest, though his condition is deteriorating. He likely won't last another ride with her," the doctor stated, holding back his own disgust about the loss of pilots. "I recommend having more ready for her soon. With the increasing fervor of Klaxosaur attacks as we near the Gran Crevasse, Plantation 13 will need as much help as it can be afforded while the new cadets come into their own. Unless we wish to throw away our resources faster than we can produce them, of course." At this, the men began to discuss the matter amongst themselves.

Werner Frank knew he had the other men ensnared with the last statement. He had learned their ways over years of working for them, nearly falling into the same dreadful mindset they seemed to possess. Lives were expendable, as long as they contributed towards the mission of eliminating the Klaxosaurs. But if the readily available pistil and stamen pairs were dwindling, they would be forced to act. And, as the doctor smiled inwardly, this would play right into his hands. These idiots were too set in their ways and refused to accept change. He had learned change is a necessary thing, and to learn from one's mistakes was the most important lesson of all.

"Dr. Franxx." Werner returned his attention to the transmission, the chairman having not moved an inch since he last spoke.

"We believe your proposal is acceptable. We'll make preparations to send for the new Parasites. You may collect Code 002 and any other personnel you may deem necessary for your experiment at Plantation 13. And though we trust your judgment, we expect you to keep us informed on further developments of any kind. Otherwise, we will entrust this to you to guide as you see fit. Thank you for your continued efforts, Doctor."

The transmission cut out, the group of men having abruptly finished their business with Doctor Franxx. Sighing, Werner sat back in his chair as he began collecting his thoughts over this development. Finally he could have some freedom to move and act. The wait had taken years of patience, but with luck that would pay off. Tapping away, he began another transmission, this time with a younger man. His face was plain and cold, lips pursed as he nodded in greeting to the doctor. With a somewhat gaunt appearance and dark, shaved hair he was an intimidating sight to behold.

"Dr. Franxx? May I ask what the reason for this call is?" the man asked curtly.

"Hachi, I need a few favors from you. But first, I want to be the first to congratulate you on your promotion."

"I don't understand sir, what promo-"

"You will be joining me at Plantation 13 in directing an experimental group of Parasites. They are untrained and will be kept in different conditions than the other plantations in an attempt to see if these can improve our chances against the Klaxosaurs. You will continue to run defense operations on a localized scale and help me in my research. Any further questions?" The younger man seemed to deliberate on the sudden news only to shake his head a few moments later.

"None at all. Tell me what you need and I'll ensure it is done, Doctor."

Dr. Franxx gave a slight smile. This would only go smoothly now that he had Hachi's help. The man had been dependable in the past, and was one of the best Werner had met during his time with APE. Best of all, he would keep quiet. "I need you to contact The Garden and retrieve these Parasites, along with their caretaker. Have them assigned to Plantation 13 as soon as possible. We can't have a plantation left without FRANXX pilots for long, particularly in this day and age. If something happens before we even have a grip on the situation there, the council will have my neck."

Hachi nodded and began to look over the listed codes for each Parasite he given. "It will be done. I'll be seeing you soon then, Doctor." With another nod, the man signed off and left Dr. Franxx alone in his office once more. As he looked up at the ceiling, the doctor thought over his next steps carefully. Retrieving Code 002 could be difficult. She was an elite pistil, but she was also a rebellious girl with a habit of being troublesome for those around her. Then there was the issue of their...spotty history. She didn't exactly trust him, and why should she? He could blame the girl, but he had a job to do then, and he had a job to do now. that didn't even begin to cover her issues with keeping a stamen alive. 'If this gambit pays off, we may not need to worry about that for much longer,' he thought before shaking his head.

"Waiting won't do much good. Time to retrieve her and see what happens next. And for our sake, I hope this works." Standing up, he couldn't help but recall old memories. A small girl with red skin and horns who struggled against everything put before her. And also a young boy with black hair who had been a promising young Parasite from the early on. Dr. Franxx smiled ruefully as he left. 'Code 002 and Code 016. I wonder what will happen this time.'

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"I want to take a bath."

The group on the military transport collectively grimaced at yet another comment from the teenage girl on board with them. The trip was several hours long, but they were coming close to Plantation 13 by this point. Even so, it appeared the girl's patience was wearing thin. She wasn't the only one.

"Relax and have some self-control," Dr. Franxx lightly scolded. The girl, known by her code of 002, gave a slight shrug. She knew the old man was getting tired of her. But she was getting tired of this stupid trip. It had been hours! They had to be nearing the plantation by now, right? She looked over, watching her "partner" sleep. The older, stocky boy looked completely beaten down with his neckbrace, sling, and oxygen mask. Probably wouldn't last much longer, she mused to herself.

"Do I smell funny to you?" she decided to ask the boy, knowing he wasn't able to answer. Still, at least she felt no answer at all was better than being brushed off by the adults. Dr. Franxx scolded her again though, the old man clearly having enough of her by this time.

"Leave him alone, he's still drained after that last battle. You and I both know he needs as much of his strength as possible if he's to remain your partner in Strelizia." Zero Two sighed, murmuring a "yeah, yeah" in response as she slumped back in her chair, white coat covering her red uniform further as she did so. It's not that she cared really. People piloted with her, and they died because they were weak. It was as simple as that. Not her fault they couldn't handle it.

She looked around as she thought of what else she could do to kill time. It was only another ten or twenty minutes before she could get off of the stupid aircraft, but she couldn't help feeling restless. More restless than usual, that is. She couldn't place it, but she felt like something was tugging her along. Excitement? Sure it was a change in scenery, and she had been promoted as leader of a new Parasite squad. Being excited only seemed natural, even if she also felt anxious over the idea. After all, it's not like she'd be the most reliable leader once her partners kick the bucket.

"Sheesh, what a high-maintenance girl," she heard Dr. Franxx comment while a younger woman named Nana took a seat near him. She said nothing, waiting to see if the two of them were going to say anything else. Come on Doc, let's hear more about how displeased you are to drag me along? Weren't you the one who pulled me along in the first place? How about you Nana, what about all of those times you thought I was a pain to deal with back at HQ? Ugh, how she wished she could just run off and go wash all of these feelings away. A bath of course would be nice, but even better would be an ocean! What she would do to experience the feeling and the view and the taste of the ocean! Maybe she could get lucky?

"Is there an ocean at Plantation 13?" she decided to ask. "I'd like to go swimming in some clear, blue ocean water."

The red-haired woman turned around, frowning slightly. "I'm sorry to say there isn't an ocean there. You can always shower once we land at Cerasus, I'm sure it will feel the same."

"But I wanted to go for a swim." Was it really so hard to understand the difference?

"We're going to be landing shortly," the pilot announced, drawing everyone's attention from the Zero Two. She slumped further down, taking a look at her hands in disdain while everyone else sat up and made sure they were prepared. She caught Nana turning around again, this time a compassionate smile directed towards her. 'What a fake,' she thought.

"We'll continue talking about it later. For now, just make sure you're good to go for the landing and be ready for the initiation ceremony later. You'll meet your new comrades then."

As the woman turned away, Zero Two grimaced. Her previous feelings gone, she only felt disgust and frustration. It wasn't at anyone in particular, but it was bothering her the more she let it stew in her mind. Like habit, she pulled a hand close and gave it a lick. She let the taste dwell on her tongue before shifting in her seat and sighing. Still gross. Still not human.

"I hate the way I taste."

The rest of the ride was silent. The other passengers took it as a blessing, but she only felt cursed. Why had she been reassigned? Why did that doctor want her over here and not on the front lines? Wasn't the point that she was to kill all of the Klaxosaurs so she could find her Darling? So she could become human again? And for them to give her leadership over a team, knowing her issues with being in Strelizia? Something was up. She needed to get out and away as quickly as possible though. These questions were weighing heavily and she wasn't in the mood to think about it. Maybe there wasn't an ocean, but there had to be something here. She took a curious glance out the window as the transport encircled the massive domed structure of Plantation 13. Towards top was a caged structure full of trees, where the Parasite cadets would probably be housed to keep them away from everyone else, she figured. As she looked, she spied a large lake within, its dark blue waters all-too-inviting for her by this point.

"Huh, well there is one after all," Zero Two mused at the sight of the body of water. Now she just needed to slip away from the rest of them once they landed. She was not in the mood to hang around and listen to these adults yammer on about things she didn't care about. Besides, there was nothing important going on until much later. She wouldn't even be gone long enough to be missed.

As the aircraft landed and they began to unload, the horned girl couldn't help but smirk at her plan. No doubt the rest of the adults would be too distracted as they made their way through the plantation to pay her much mind. As soon as they could get out of the hangar and away from the soldiers, she'd be home free.

"Those seats are far too uncomfortable to sit in," Dr. Franxx complained, his old joints creaking as they stepped through the structure. The cargo aircraft they flew in was carried into Plantation 13 by conveyor, its cargo within brought along to be stored away until later. "We don't have anything a little more comfortable to ride? These old bones of mine really can't take much more of that kind of travel."

"We didn't have much of a choice when our cargo is that massive. You'll simply have to deal with it," Nana informed him.

"Aye, still as stiff as ever, Nana," the doctor said. "Even after all of these years you haven't really changed. Still, I think both those seats and your personality could do with being a bit softer and more yielding." The woman felt Werner's robotic arm grope at her from behind, causing the woman to squeak and pull away from his grasp.

"Doctor, please stop that!" she cried out indignantly. Zero Two rolled her eyes at the sight. Dr. Franxx was usually such an unreadable man, and the cybernetics certainly didn't help. It was all too easy to forget he was still human, perversions and all. The young teen kept walking with them, keeping her pace just enough that she brought up the rear as they passed through.

'And here we go!' Seizing her chance, the girl slipped away by taking a different escalator to help her get closer to the center of the plantation. She felt lucky knowing how easy it would be to get to the lake. The layouts of these places were generally the same so getting around was hardly a problem.

She couldn't help keeping an ear out for her forgotten party. Screwing around with them was one of the few things she could do to have fun now. Now it was just a wait to see how long it took for them to realize she was missing. I wasn't until she was nearly out the door to the next room did she hear Nana's sudden cry of alarm. 'Took you guys long enough', she thought. She caught a glimpse of the group, giving her cap taunting spin before tossing it away. They'd figure out where she was eventually, but until then there was plenty of time for a quick dip!

Zero Two ran gleefully through the corridors of Plantation 13, passing the occasional confused worker until she was able to find her way to the top, Mistilteinn, and with it caught the smell of the forest. She took a deep breath, taking in the fresh scents that were practically an oasis compared to the stark, dead constants of the plantation and the world around it.

Without further hesitation she ran through the forest, following what she could remember seeing overhead. It wasn't long before she found the large lake from before, practically inviting her to jump in and let all of her previous worries and questions fade away. 'At least for a little bit,' she sighed. With any luck, she would be able to come back another time. She was going to be stationed here after all, so why not? Then she could go swimming as much as she wanted! No doctor, no APE, no stupid rules, just her!

Stripping down, she hastily tossed her clothes onto a nearby log. Unclipping her headband, she gave it a look of indifference before tossing it, tool. With a big stretch before running in, she found herself giggling for the first time in a while. It had been so long since she felt so free. She only wished she could have more time for it, but why worry?. The cool water shocked her upon entering, but she was able to grow used to it quickly. Lifting her head slightly she took another breath before beginning to swim around, the sound and feeling of her body cutting through becoming all she cared to listen to. Best of all, there were fish in the water! She couldn't help but feel the excitement of hunting again. This day could throw whatever it wanted at her, she was content as she was.

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Not much earlier that day, a teenage boy also found himself in Mistilteinn. Wearing the Parasite uniform, he lay on the forest floor as he considered his recent failures. For all of his training, he was a washout pilot. Kind of like the Jian bird he once read about. He didn't know why he was remembering that old book, but he had come to realize he was pretty similar to that story. Incapable of flight, or at least incapable of piloting a FRANXX in his case. He didn't know why he was like this, he just was.

Code 016. That was the designation he was given, though he had given himself a name as a child. Hiro. It was a rather crude combination of the sounds the numbers made, but he liked it. He'd actually gone any named all of the other kids he had grown up with in the Garden, though he eventually stopped. He couldn't quite recall why, but it just didn't feel right after a time.

Just like how his training felt off for a while now. It certainly showed in his performance. You needed to find a partner that synchronized well, otherwise you couldn't fly. Poor Naomi. She was paying for his mistakes, and both were grounded. Yet because he was a supposed "favorite" to Papa, he was to stay at Plantation 13. That's what he had been told before by their new commander, Hachi. What he'd give to swap places though. Naomi deserved another chance. He was nothing. Just someone left to wallow here and wonder what his purpose really was here.

Hearing a thud, Hiro felt his attention break away from his thoughts. Scrambling towards the outer wall of the dome that made this enclosure, he saw a section of glass stained red. Curiously he reached to touch it, feeling the warm liquid between his fingers.

"It's blood…," he whispered. He saw the source nearby, a small bird frantically chirping as its feathers were stained red. It was a pitiful thing, broken and useless like himself. Despite that, Hiro felt the need to help the downed creature. Yet as he reached out to help, it sprang up. Hobbling away, it made desperate leaps to fly despite its injury and soon disappeared from the his sight. 'Where would a bird like that be able to go? Flightless...what could it do if it can't fly?' he thought. How could it live without a purpose?

Once more he was interrupted from his ponderings by a massive shadow blocking the sky. One of the larger military transports appeared to be landing, its incredible size a sight to behold no matter how many times he had seen one. Still, he felt something as he watched the shuttle. Something different...why couldn't he place it? It wasn't the kind of thing they would use to take Naomi back to The Garden, so no way that was it. It had to be something else, a new feeling. But what?

He watched as the shuttle slowly disappeared into the interior of the Plantation. With something that big, he could only begin to imagine what they were transporting. Supplies? Weapons? Could be anything, but nothing that would have stirred up that strange feeling in him. It was probably nothing though. He really need to clear his head, maybe walking would do better than just laying in the dirt?

Not long after he felt that strange feeling only amplify. It was odd, like the slightest bit of anxiety. He noticed splotches of red staining the dirt of one of the many trails there. That bird again? He felt his lips pull in a slight smile. It must have survived after all.

A splash nearby. He hadn't quite noticed the change of surroundings, but he found himself near a misty lake just beyond the trees.

"I didn't know there was a place like this here," he said as he looked around. On a nearby log, a pile of clothes were left behind, as if their owner was in a hurry. But why would someone be in such a hurry to get undressed in here of all places?

"A Parasite? Maybe but...it's not quite the same," he noted. Unlike his plain gray, this one was a deep red, with some additional flourishes that came with a female uniform. As he inspected it and tried to figure out what was going on, he absentmindedly picked up one of the articles. Another splash from the water drew his attention yet again. From shore he couldn't make out much, but was that a girl out there? That would explain the uniform at least, but why was she out here? Did she come on that transport and seriously make this her first stop?

He wasn't sure what to think. Maybe if he watched more, he might get a better idea? Wait, maybe not. From here it almost looked like she was...Oh yeah. She was definitely naked out there. Should have guessed that after seeing the clothes. Peeking his eyes out, he watched as she dived beneath the surface. He wasn't sure how long she could hold her breath, but after a good half minute the worry gnawed at him.

"No way, is she drowning?" Rushing into the pond, he searched desperately for the girl before it was too late. "I've got to save her!"

To his surprise, she hadn't needed rescue at all. Bursting from the water in a cascade of droplets, Hiro felt his eyes widen as a girl with pink hair appeared before him with a fish in her mouth. And, he couldn't help but notice, her body was incredibly close to his.

Hiro could only stare, mouth agape at the girl before him. There was definitely something alluring about her. Yeah the red horns could be it, that was certainly weird. Her unashamed nudity explained it better though as he felt a surge of feelings stir within. Spitting the fish out, the weird girl leaned in closer. A lot closer. The look she gave was both curious and suspicious, but Hiro couldn't stop himself from being drawn into her eyes. Two bright green orbs with fascinating red markings that framed the outer edges, like makeup. He felt like he could keep staring at them, but something still seemed wrong. Like there was something he was forgetting about her. Maybe because she was...

"N-n-n-naked!" he cried out as the realization hit him again. Seeing other guys nude, no problem. That was just normal growing up when it was time to bathe. But this? He wasn't trained for this! Stepping back, Hiro tried to collect himself. 'Just stay calm and you'll figure a way out of this!' he rationalized. No way she would get mad if he explained himself!

"Huh. And here I thought you might be dead." The mystery girl waltzed back towards shore, leaving the would-be savior behind. Hiro felt himself relax a bit, opening his eyes once more as he watched the beauty retreat. She didn't seem too upset, so far so good. But something still nagged at him. Was this why he was feeling odd earlier? Maybe, but he had to know more.

"Are you a Parasite?" he asked. And a moment later, "Why were you bathing here?" He didn't know if he would get any answers, but it there were so many mysteries with this girl already. He had to start somewhere!

"It's so weird. I was told the ocean was salty, but that didn't taste anything like it." And there it was, no answers. Just more questions. Did she really expect an ocean in the middle of a plantation? Still facing away, Hiro watched as she licked herself. Yup, this girl was weird.

"Uh, well, this isn't an ocean," he replied. The girl turned aside.

"I knew that," she said, moving her hand to her chin like she was thinking. "But it's the closest thing to an ocean I know of. Anyways, were you going to go for a swim as well?"

Changing the subject again, she seemed to miss no beats. Hiro didn't know what to think of the girl, but her questions and mannerisms seemed innocent...you know, aside from the lack of clothing.

"Huh? You're asking me? I wasn't planning on it, no."

"Really? But it feels really good if you ask me." Seriously what was with this girl? She didn't make sense! This whole thing was starting to feel like she was getting more information out of him than he was out of her. How the hell did that happen?

"Well, you were staring pretty hard back there. I figured you must have wanted to go for a swim as well."

So she did notice when he first arrived. This girl was perceptive, Hiro had to give her that. Still, he wasn't sure what to make of her yet. And this teasing that she was doing! He trudged to shore, resolving to clear everything up. At least that way maybe he could keep his own dignity intact.

"W-well that's because I thought you were drowning!" he exclaimed. "So I jumped in to save you and well...look, I'm sorry. Could you maybe put some clothes on? This is a bit awkward."

He turned aside, having had more than an eyeful of the girl's body. It's not like he didn't enjoy it. He realized he enjoyed it a lot more than he expected. That was definitely...different. But that wasn't the point! It still felt wrong, like he was invading her privacy. He really hoped she didn't think he was some kind of creep after all of this.

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Zero Two took a moment to think things over, looking at the black-haired boy as he tried his best to respect her dignity. She had been enjoying this so far. Hopefully she had time to have a little more fun before the killjoys arrived. Looking the guy up and down, she couldn't help but noticed him clutching onto her panties. Poor guy either had no idea, which seemed reasonable based on his reactions so far. Or…

"I get it!" said as the realization dawned on her. "You must be some kind of a pervert, right?"

Hiro was completely caught off guard by her comment. Seizing up, he stumbled over himself as he tried to respond.

"What? No! Where did that come from?"

Oh, so he really didn't know. She watched as he followed where she pointed, realization dawning on his innocent face what he had been clutching all of this time. If this boy was part of her squad, she was going to have a lot more fun messing with him. He was definitely cute at least, she smiled as she watched him frantically hold her underwear out for her. Even the blush was cute! Yup, she was definitely having fun with him.

"Your face is hilarious!" she cried, letting her laughter ring through the forest until she could pull it back together. It had been a bit since she had a good laugh like that. She couldn't help it though, he had been pretty funny so far.

"But, you did try to save me huh? Thank you, I really appreciate that."

'May as well stop torturing the poor guy and put some clothes on,' she giggled to herself. He was interesting for some reason. Maybe just because he had stumbled upon her in the first place? Something nagged at her though. It was more than that. She didn't know him, so why did he feel so familiar? It didn't make sense. Time to pick his brain some more and see what she could get out of it.

"So you're a Parasite as well?"

"No." She looked back at him curiously. That wasn't right. He wore the Parasite uniform. Unless...

"So you don't pilot?"

"I can't pilot. I don't have the ability anymore. Even made my partner suffer for it." So that was it. One of those doomed pilots that couldn't connect. It was almost pitiful, especially seeing that look on his face. He looked so disgusted with himself, as if he hated living in his own skin.

"Huh, so you're just like me," she responded vaguely, clipping her limiter headband back on. She hated having to put it on, but doctor's orders It was better than before, she had to admit. "I'm always alone, too. All thanks to these horns."

She watched him stare back at her horns, like he was trying to understand more. It was almost embarrassing having someone stare at them. They made her feel like she was different. Even so, he didn't seem to be bothered or afraid. It was more like it was a curiosity, like he was intrigued by them. Guess there's a first time for everything. Maybe she could take a first step and be a bit more of a leader, too. Leaders are supposed to inspire, right? If this guy was one of the Parasites on her team, then partner or not then it can't hurt to help.

"If you don't have a place in this world, you need to go out and make one for yourself," she continued. "And if you don't have a partner, go out and find one. But if you can't do that, take one by force!"

She couldn't help herself, really. She may have been a little too excited in the moment, but still! Reaching out, she grabbed the surprised boy by the shoulders and closed the gap between them. Giving him a quick lick, she felt gravity take over as his legs gave out, pulling the two of them back into the pond. Even the cool water couldn't stop the warm feeling that surged through her though. That taste, it was way too familiar! There was it was again, something familiar about this boy. Could he be...Darling? She felt her mind race at the possibility. Was she jumping to conclusions? But that taste! But...he didn't recognize her. Maybe he just wasn't sure, she did used to have that garish red skin after all. But her horns! They should be a giveaway, right? Maybe she just needed to take it easy. No need to jump to conclusions yet, right?

"Wow...your taste really gets my heart racing," she said, pulling herself away finally. Maybe she could get some kind of hint across, or one from him? "Something with a bite to it, like danger. I think I like it."

"Wait, what are you even doing?" Hiro asked. The entire situation was very likely confusing him, Zero Two noticed. Maybe he didn't remember after all. Maybe...maybe he wasn't Darling. No! Don't lose hope just yet!

"Oh sorry, would you have preferred a kiss?"

"A...kiss? What's that?"

"You don't know?" She smirked. Darling or not, he was still adorable. And she was still enjoying this little chat, even if it was making the boy more than a little uncomfortable. Leaning in once more, she let her breath linger against his ear as she spoke.

"It's a very special thing."

With that, she sprang back to her feet. A soft smile graced her face as she looked back down at Hiro. She definitely was having a lot of fun. Maybe the other cadets would be this fun? Well, if this was her darling they wouldn't even matter. So just maybe…

"I think I've taken a liking to you. How would you like to be my darling?"

Darling. That was the word she held so dearly to her. One of the first she learned, and one of the first he had taught her so many years ago. So just maybe, that would jog his memory enough to prove he was the one she had been searching for so desperately. Please, just let this search be over.

"Darling? Hold on, don't you mean partner?"

So he didn't remember. They must have really done a number to him to have him forget those memories. Stupid Werner, why the hell did you do that? If he had just let them keep their memories, this wouldn't be an issue! She could be happy and...and…

Calm down. There was no evidence this really was Darling. Yeah the taste was really similar, and the hair, and those eyes, and the fact that he looked similar overall. But that didn't mean a thing, right? No need to get your hopes up! Even so, just the slightest chance made it worth pursuing. So maybe she could find out. Maybe she could unlock those memories! But first, to stop letting him get his uniform soaked by the lake.

"Your abilities are probably just latent and need to be awakened," she told him, extending a hand to help him up. "If you wanted, I could help you get there. Also, you weren't frightened by my horns."

Win-win scenario! He gets to pilot, and she got her Darling back! Maybe this could work out! Assuming, of course, he was her Darling. Just have to stop jumping to conclusions like that. Just before he could take her hand though, he heard the voices of her caretakers and "partner" through the forest, and the rustling of bushes signaled their arrival. Shit.

"Too bad. Guess we're out of time," she told the boy. She turned back to face the new arrivals, trying her best to withhold her displeasure. Her partner, Code 081, looked incredibly displeased already so at least the feeling was mutual.

"There you are. You shouldn't be running off alone like that."

"There's nothing going on though," she replied. "Not like the initiation ceremony is until tomorrow anyways."

"Yes, but as your partner it all comes back on me when you get yourself into trouble like this." She grumbled her displeasure as he plopped her special forces cap back onto her head. Treating her like a child, who did he think he was?

"Partner? You're her partner?" She heard maybe-Darling talk to 081. He sounded confused more than anything else, not that she could blame him. Feast your eyes, this partner is falling apart at the seams!

"Are you one of the Parasite cadets? I'm sorry she bothered you, she can be a handful." 'Oh you have no idea how much of a handful I can be,' she huffed while the other adults began to pull her away. She hated how they tried to hurry her along and control her life like it was something to be directed and used at their beck and call.

"And one more thing: stay far away from her. She's not the kind of pistil that just anyone can handle," she heard her partner tell the other boy. Zero Two instantly felt her blood start to boil at the thought. Maybe he could stay away, but she wasn't until she figured everything out once and for all!

"Wait just a moment! Your name! Can I at least get your name?"

She stopped. They had codes, not names. But her Darling...he tried to name her, didn't he? So maybe it was him! Telling him that much might help his memories, just maybe. It was worth a shot, right?

"Do Parasites even have names?" she asked him, hoping to hear some kind of reaction. Upon getting none, she sighed. "My code is 002. But it's Zero Two. That's what they call me at least."

Perhaps one day she'd be able to find out if he was her Darling or not. Today wouldn't be it. But she wouldn't stop looking until she was dead. She didn't care how long it took, or how many Klaxosaurs she had to kill. One day they would be reunited.

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Hiro felt helpless. He felt awful. It's not like he meant for things to go this way, but he couldn't change it now. Naomi was gone now, off to The Garden where who knows what would happen to her. She had left in tears, throwing her belongings back at him to give to everyone else so they could remember her.

He didn't need to see her off, either. He should have been down at the initiation ceremony, but he felt better about skipping it. Being the only one without a partner, it would have been embarrassing. He still didn't know why that was allowed to begin with. It's not like they had magically found a new partner for him, right?

Watching as the massive transports left, he only wished he knew what to do. There had to be something, right? Maybe he could talk to Hachi again and get a better idea of what to do. Until then-

A huge tremor shook him out of his thoughts. Watching in alarm, he saw as a black and blue shape emerged from the Earth itself, tearing the ground apart underneath the transports. Naomi! She was going to be alright, wasn't she? He didn't have long to wonder though. The shape freed itself from the ground, revealing a hulking monstrosity known as a Klaxosaur. He had never seen one in person before, but it was far more terrifying than he had expected. The thing reared its massive head and roared, charging towards the plantation with incredible speed. The plantation defenses immediately began to barrage the creature in a futile effort to hold it back. Ramming near where he stood, Hiro could only watch in fear as it swung its mighty tail and crushed the turrets and part of the edifice, launching him onto another platform below.

He had to get out of there, it was way too dangerous. He struggled to his feet, all too happy that he seemed unscathed so far. Running as quickly as his legs could move, he tried to escape the raging monster. A new roar overthrew the other, and he watched as a new beast entered the fray. That wasn't another Klaxosaur, was it? No, it was something else. A FRANNX? But then why was it so bestial? They were supposed to be humanoid!

The FRANXX unit leapt onto the back of the Klaxosaur, viciously tearing away at the outer layers and pulling up what almost appeared to be machinery. It was knocked off and thrown back towards the plantation, but still it fought on. The Klaxosaur seemed to then plant itself in the ground, its tail expanding and jaw opening wide. Firing a burst of energy, Hiro felt himself turn away from the bright light, unable to keep watching in the confusion. A huge crash next to him made it sound almost like debris from the hit had struck the siding near him. In actuality the FRANXX was launched back into the plantation right by him, unmoving. The hatch opened and a body slumped out. It was Code 081! He ran over and gently lifted the larger boy up, trying desperately to find a sign of life.

"Don't bother, he's already dead," he heard above. There she was, the strange girl from before. She was looking pretty beat up, but she was alive at least. Was this really her FRANXX?

"It's you! What are you doing in that thing?"

"What does it look like I'm doing? I'm going monster hunting of course," she replied as if it was the most obvious response. If Hiro was in a better mood, he would have probably laughed at how dumb his question must have been. But this wasn't the time or the place.

"What, you're going to pilot that thing alone now?" She couldn't be serious, could she? And yet it seemed she was, as sure enough she began to slide back into the cockpit. Painfully, he noted.

"Sorry, gotta go."

"You can't go alone, you're already hurt!" He reached out, only to be smacked away by her. She was pretty stubborn, wasn't she?

"Out of my way! I don't need help!" she shouted back.

"That's insane though! FRANXX can't be piloted by a single person, everyone knows that!" He had to stop her somehow. She looked so helpless just crawling back in, but what could he do? There wasn't much. He could try to pilot, and then what? Not synchronize like always? Get himself killed like 081? There were countless things that could go wrong. And yet, he didn't care.

"I'll do it. I'm always alone. That's just how it's always been for me." The way she said it sounded so solemn, like the girl had a death wish. Like she didn't know any other way but this. He had to try to stop her, or at least reconsider.

"You'll die if you do!" She wasn't completely suicidal, right?

"So? I'm not afraid of dying." So that was it. That left only one thing.

"Hold on! Let me pilot with you!" Was he being rash? Yes. Did he care at the moment? No. He wasn't about to just let this girl kill herself like that! Even if he was feeling similar before, he could just stand by. He still had more questions he wanted to ask her! Still, he seemed to have her attention. She stopped, tilting her head back just the slightest.

"Are you ready to die?" she asked. It wasn't much of a question he could consider at this point. What else could he do?

"I don't know. But I do know that if I can't pilot, I'm as good as dead! So please, just let me go with you!"

She had returned to the opening of the cockpit, propping herself up as she looked down upon Hiro. He couldn't help but feel tears start to sting his eyes. He needed her to reconsider. What more could he do if he let this one opportunity slip by?

"Looks like we're pretty similar after all. It's been a while since I've seen a human cry like that, too." He watch her wipe a tear from his eye like it was a precious gift. "I like the look in your eyes. It makes my heart race. But if you're serious, then come to me."

She extended her hand, reaching out to him. Hiro felt himself gravitate towards her, like a bee drawn to a flower. He didn't know how to really describe what happened next though. It was all too fleeting, but the feeling was far too real to ignore.

"Let me get a taste of you. After all, you are now my Darling!" she had exclaimed, before pulling Hiro close and planting her lips onto his. Immediately he felt his senses light up to a new sensation. It was strange but delightful, something that he couldn't help but enjoy.

Inside the cockpit, the systems for the FRANXX began to start back up, lighting in a way he didn't realize was possible. The monitors flashed, bearing the name "STRELITZIA" as they began to power up.

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Outside, the Klaxosaur had begun to move again. Seeing its motionless target, the beast charged once more, ramming into the motionless FRANXX. Werner cringed at the sight. He hated seeing his pride and joy attacked like that. The fact that Strelitzia had been down for so long signified the stamen was likely dead. It was a shame, but it was inevitable. But now, was the girl really that crazy to try to pilot again on her own?

A burst of light caught him and everyone else in attendance by surprise. This was it! This was what he had been waiting for! Strelitzia was activating for the first time out of her rampage mode! He didn't know who had jumped into the mecha with Zero Two, but a sneaking suspicion tickled his old heart. So those two already found each other? Good, then the real work could begin.

He watched in awe as Strelitzia, now in humanoid form, tossed the Klaxosaur like nothing. The raw power of the FRANXX and it finally could be seen by all!

"Now this is a FRANXX! You're the best Strelitzia!" he praised, practically basking in the machine's presence.

"But who's piloting?" he heard Nana say. He smiled inwardly. Assuming he was correct, he believed everyone would be surprised once Strelitzia finished the job. But that was assuming this pilot really did have the chops to get it done.

Strelitzia stared the Klaxosaur down as the beast began to charge another shot. Countering, she threw her lance into the beast's core, launching forward to retrieve her weapon. With a single shot, the lance pierced through and annihilated the creature, showering the area in a flood of blue blood.

Werner cheered at the sight. At last, his creation was working as intended! Equally so, things looked to be going just the way he had hoped. There's only one stamen that should have synchronized so well with Zero Two.

As the mecha returned to the plantation and opened the hatch, he was proven correct. Despite the gasps of the other Parasites upon seeing their comrade was the one who piloted, he gave no hint of any reaction. Code 016, known by Hiro, had successfully bonded with Code 002, known by Zero Two. Now that they had found each other, he had to ensure their continued success. APE may trust him, but he would have to be careful. They needn't know his own designs for the future, especially involving these two. For now though, things would be taken simply. No need to rush. He had been patient already, what was another couple of months?

Please leave a review if you enjoyed! This is the first major piece I've tried to write in quite some time, so I'm a bit rusty and could use as much of a critique as possible.

That said, as the title suggests this is a rewrite of Darling in the FranXX. There are a lot of issues in the original story that I plan on addressing during the course of this that will hopefully give everyone a more satisfactory ending as a result. While this first chapter may not have had much that was different from the original story, I do plan to make some major deviations as things progress, so please bear with me!