He wanted to roll her over, rip off her clothes and have his way with her until neither of them could move. He wanted to love her and shag her senseless in equal measure.

And the worst part was, he knew she wanted that, as well. They knew each and every cranny of each other's minds, due to the connections they underwent in Strelizia. Knew what the other was thinking and feeling at those times, knew what their emotions and motives were. Had it been anyone else, he would've been panicking at the lack of privacy. But her? He wanted her to read his mind. And he knew she wanted him to read hers.

Bluntly put, they were obsessed with each other. Addicted. They both knew it. They both loved it.

But they couldn't take the next step. Couldn't go as far as they desired.

He stared up at the ceiling, frustrated and tired. All previous attempts at willing his body back to sleep had failed. This one did too. How could he sleep when his nerves only felt her body? Did she know what she was doing to him? A rhetorical question - of course she did. That was why she kept doing it! He loved the way she slept on him! That was bad! The way her soft body pressed into him, the way her breath tickled his neck! That was bad! Her scent, holy hell, her scent alone brought him to the brink! That was bad!

Hiro hesitated a glance down at her resting form. Those two pristine horns, that beautiful, messy pink hair. Her pale skin. His eyes drifted lower, eyeing the neckline of her shirt. It had drifted low during the night. He had a perfect view of her ample cleavage, mashed against his chest.

His eyes were wrenched away desperately. Perfection itself was using him as a body pillow.

FUCK!

The sudden lack of control over his emotions was bothersome, to say the least. He needed to adapt to the changes quicker. The anger especially, although it was probably too late. Those guys, the Nines, apparently reported directly to Papa. And in his rage, he'd flung their leader into a wall. That was probably a... uh... mistake. For now they were safe apparently - Zero Two had seen their transport leave the plantation - but they would need to be on the lookout for any retribution. The doctor probably already knew anyway. Hopefully he'd cover for them.

A really goddamn cute yawn signaled her surface from slumber and interrupted his thoughts. Hair cascading around her like a waterfall, she got up and knelt on top of him, rubbing her eyes and stretching. He found it incredibly attractive. Then she reached down, pulled up his shirt and revealed his torso. It had become her morning routine, something he loved and hated in equal measure. Loved, because he found the process really, really hot, and also knew she absolutely loved doing it. Hated, because it made resisting nigh impossible.

She leaned down over him and, starting from his waistband, began kissing a line up his abdomen, worshipping his body. She hummed happily as she did so. Though the act happened as soon as she woke, no matter what, how it ended depended on whether his eyes were open by the time she reached his lips. If he was awake, it ended with her tongue in his mouth, checking his canines for growth. If he was still sleeping, she went back to cuddling and repeated the process again once he awoke, with the 'correct' ending.

The second time around tended to last a lot longer. By that point she was usually topless.

Zero Two lingered on his chest, making sure to gently kiss every part of the scar the tumor had left. He knew she had mixed feelings. While she tended to linger on the idea that she'd marred his body, he also knew she'd become increasingly accepting of its effects as time went on and his transformation progressed. Satisfied, she trailed her tongue up his neck, then kissed his jaw over to the corner of his mouth. She leaned back, checking. He opened his eyes and grinned.

With a happy giggle she finished the process, diving in to give him a joyful, sensual kiss. Her tongue pushed into his mouth gently and scraped along his canines. They both voiced their pleasure.

"Morning," she whispered once they separated.

"Morning. Sleep well?"

She grinned, lowering herself onto him and resting her head on his shoulder. "Mhm! Did you?"

"Woke up a little earlier than normal. Senses got more sensitive again."

"Your horns and teeth got a little longer, too," she noted quietly. She stroked her hand through his hair gently and then leaned into his neck, breathing deeply. Hiro squeezed his eyes shut at her moan and shudder. Why was she so damn hot? He could barely control himself when she was sleeping, let alone moaning against him!

"Scent's... stronger too," she giggled, a bit delirious. "Smells good, mmmnn..."

He grinned wryly. "This is harder than I thought it would be."

"Right?"

"You are sure about this, Nine-Alpha?"

"I am, Papa."

"List your injuries."

"Sir. Three broken ribs, a dislocated left shoulder, minor internal bleeding."

"How did Code 016 injure you in such a manner?"

"He threw me into a wall, Papa. The wall suffered moderate damage on impact."

"Why did he do such a thing?"

"I do not know, Papa. We were performing a routine check-in on Nine-Iota, as she is a noted flight risk. I introduced myself to Code 016, as is appropriate, and corrected a minor terminology error on his behalf. That appeared to trigger an unwarranted, unprovoked hostile response."

The other end of the line was silent for a long time. Papa was clearly considering his options. Alpha rolled the left shoulder experimentally in an attempt to loosen the stiff joints. It was still sore; a minor but frustrating inconvenience, given the origin of the wound. The clone most certainly had not expected or anticipated the aggression. Such instability would need to be remedied sooner rather than later.

"If I may provide some additional information to help inform your decision, Papa?"

"You may."

"Code 016 exhibited several physiological anomalies. Like Nine-Iota, he demonstrated irrational and illogical decision making, heightened aggression and abnormal strength. He also appeared to have horns and enlarged maxillary canines."

An annoyed, artificial sigh echoed through over the connection. "Werner."

"Furthermore, Papa, Nine-Iota appeared to be overly trusting and dedicated to Code 016. She demonstrated a concerning amount of physical attachment to him. I was informed by Nine-Gamma that she also threatened physical violence in defense of Code 016 when Nine-Gamma approached the stamen. If I may, I recommend immediate separation and reindoctrination for both subjects. At this time, I would question their loyalty to you and your cause. I believe they are a danger."

"Denied."

"Understood, Papa."

"To clarify, Nine-Alpha, you are correct in your assessment. However, their risk of flight is too severe to warrant such a direct approach. Her leash remains secure. Them holding such an attachment to each other benefits us. Where Code 002 is, we will find Code 016. If they are acting in such a hostile manner, it merely means they require a bit more persuasion. Plantation 13's parasite squadron is currently scheduled to undergo routine maintenance at Garden before joining the forces at Grand Crevasse. You will see to it that the facility is secured for their arrival. They will be assessed on site, and the leash will be suitably adjusted. You will not interact with them until then. Remember, Nine-Alpha, that they are important to my plans. Do nothing that would disrupt them."

Something foreign stirred in Alpha's mind then, but it was fleeting and of little consequence. "As you command, Papa."

The connection was terminated and Alpha turned to the silent, gray-haired clone in the back of the room.

"Send a message to Garden. Inform them of our arrival."

The clone nodded, pulled out a communicator and left the room.

If asked a little over a month ago what she thought of Zero Two, the very last thought to cross Ichigo's mind would've been 'valued squad member'. It was funny how things could change so quickly. She would've never dreamed of this day, she would've loathed this day, she would've been panicking and screaming up a storm. But now?

To say she was looking forward to it would be an understatement.

"Ichigo? What's up?" Zero Two asked, approaching her.

The girl was usually left to her own devices; it was a mutual, unspoken understanding they'd reached, one Ichigo was normally more than happy to allow. Strelizia's pistil had suffered enough and the last thing she needed was bureaucracy stealing time from Hiro. Ichigo knew they were always together, and so Hiro had remained her point of contact. Where Hiro was, Zero Two was bound to follow. This event was special, though, and so Ichigo had called her here alone. Had Zero Two known what was about to happen, she surely would've approved of the methodology. The look on Hiro's face would make it all worthwhile.

"You have a package, Zero Two," Ichigo announced, smiling up at her. Her hands came out from behind her back. The box was long and flat.

Zero Two took it, eyeing in strangely. "For... me?" But then she caught something on the label. The shift in her expression was extraordinary, a ray of sunshine burning away the clouds. "Wait! Waitwait, is this...!"

She nodded, feeling her mood rise with the girl's. "It is. You're official, Zero Two. Congratulations!"

The quivering lips gave Zero Two away. She was clearly touched. "I'm so happy! Thanks so much, Ichigo!"

"Had you'd arrived a month earlier, it could've been a late birthday present for Hiro!"

"A birthday present?" she asked. Then her eyes widened. "Ahh! It's October 16th! You're right, I just missed it!"

Ichigo gave her a curious look. "You know what a birthday is?"

Zero Two nodded quickly. "I saw it in his memories! At that icky Garden place, right? They brought you to a separate room to celebrate!"

...Whoa. "Then, do you... know when your birthday is, Zero Two? We don't get presents anymore, but we still like to write cards for each other."

A shake of the head was her answer. "Nope! I don't have one!"

Ichigo bit her lip, thinking. That was awkward. Writing cards was a good bonding exercise and she'd feel bad if Zero Two was left out.

"O-Oh. Anyway!" she replied quickly. "I'm sure Hiro would love seeing you in that regardless! And there's always next year, right? You can celebrate his birthday with him then!"

It took Zero Two a moment to overcome her frustration at missing something of such import. But at last she nodded. "Y-Yeah! You're right! Thanks Ichigo!" she said quickly. She turned and ran off.

Ichigo was left to her thoughts. Zero Two had been a test subject, stuck in a lab and... experimented on, for a fair bit of time if Hiro's memories were anything to go by. It would make sense that she wouldn't know her own date of birth. Such a thing probably wasn't marked in her files, either. But she didn't want to leave Zero Two out. That was so rude! So what could she do? How could she solve this... problem...

She looked up suddenly.

Zero Two's life revolved around Hiro, because Hiro saved her. He rescued her, showed her kindness, bonded with her. Even if they did know her date of birth or creation or whatever, wouldn't that day, the day of her rescue, be her true birthday? The day she was 'born', so to speak? And Hiro rescued her the same day Mitsuru got...

That was it!

Why the hell did this always happen? Was this some sort of game he was unintentionally participating in?

"Yes, Ichigo? What is it?"

"Could I access your medical files, Mitsuru?"

What an odd request. "You're the squad leader. You have access to the files, do you not?"

She glanced away. "Y-Yeah, but... it's rude to snoop around with that stuff! I at least want your permission!"

Why would she even want his files, anyway? "Are you concerned about my medical history? Such an important request is usually done through the official channels, correct?"

Ichigo held up her hands quickly. "No, no! You're fine. It... it has to do with Zero Two, actually."

It wasn't often that he found himself lost for answers or just downright confused, but this conversation was certainly one of those moments. He closed the biology book he had been studying and gave her a strange look.

"...What would Zero Two have to do with my medical files, Ichigo?"

The girl's grin was sheepish. "She... ah... doesn't know when her birthday is. And we write each other cards and I don't want her to be left out, s-so..."

...Oh. He sighed, rolling his eyes. That's what this was about.

"I understand. Hiro escaped with her the day I received my elixir treatment. She spent most of her early childhood as a testing experiment and you think that date would make a suitable birthday."

A sigh and nod marked her relief. She was glad she didn't have to explain herself, apparently. "Y-Yeah."

But this presented an opportunity. Ichigo, as squad leader, did have access to the squad's files and history, mostly to guide any medical emergencies while in the field. And that meant he could potentially...

"I will give you permission, on one condition."

"And that would be...?"

His expression turned serious. "I wish to see Hiro's medical history."

Ichigo tensed, going into her 'squad leader' mode. "Why?"

Arms crossed, he looked down at the biology book. "Something is wrong. The details don't add up, and I want to know why. He should not be expressing physical traits so soon. I don't have enough information. If I went through the official channels, I would be denied."

She bit her lip, considering her options. "You're that concerned, huh?" she asked quietly.

"I am."

Sighing loudly, she sat down across from him and pulled out her communicator. He did the same. After fiddling with it for a moment, she pushed it across the table; Hiro's medical file was on the holographic display. He accessed his own records and gave his device to her. Then his focus was entirely on the files. He quickly scrolled through the history, starting from the beginning. Just standard YBC treatments, but the dosages were lower than everyone else. Why? The scrolling continued.

"November 2nd, huh?" he heard her say. Having gotten her information, she looked up and waited for him to finish.

He scrolled through the months and years of their time at Garden. The YBC dosages continued to occasionally lower, but they never stopped.

Wait.

Why wasn't there anything marked down for November 5th? The entire date was blank. His brow furrowing, Mitsuru scrolled past the date. All YBC treatments stopped at that point. On November 6th, they were replaced by...

'BTTS'?

"Did you find something?" Ichigo asked urgently. She'd noted his pensive expression. "What is it?"

Scowling, he tried to collect his thoughts. It was an acronym, clearly, but what could it mean? And why was that date blank? Dosages were usually bimonthly, why would he receive this BTTS every day of the week? Did that change, too? He scrolled quickly. Yes, it did. The 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th... and then it shifted back to bimonthly. What in the world was this?

"Mitsuru! Hey!"

He looked up quickly. "Ichigo, do you recognize the acronym 'BTTS'?"

"Huh?" She blinked at him, then bit her lip in thought. "No, I've never heard of it. Why?"

"They replaced Hiro's YBC injections with it, up until he..." He scrolled to the end. That date was... their graduation date?! "...until we graduated from Garden."

"What?!"

He gave her back the communicator then stood up rapidly, eyeing the biology section of the house's library.

"I need to go do research on this."

Ichigo nodded, looking over Hiro's medical file herself. "Y-Yeah! Let me know if you find anything, okay? We'll keep this between us for the time being until we learn more."

"Right."

"Ikuno! I need your help!"

This was annoying. He was annoying. Deep down, she knew she was being petty. She knew the boys weren't bad. But she wished she didn't have to deal with them. Not Mitsuru, not Futoshi, not any of them. Why couldn't pistil-pistil connections work again? Jeez! The least obnoxious one was Hiro; he never bothered them, never shot them those creepy glances. His eyes were only ever on that girl, Zero Two, and she didn't have a problem with that. Those two clearly cared for each other. What they had was perfectly acceptable.

She was even a bit jealous, perhaps. No matter.

"What could you possibly need my help for, Futoshi?" she replied, perhaps a bit colder than she intended. Whatever. He could deal.

The boy rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. "I... you're the only one I can ask. I've already talked to Ichigo about it and Miku would never give me the time of day, so..."

Ikuno rolled her eyes, looking away. "This is about Kokoro, isn't it?"

He didn't respond. That meant yes.

"And what do you want from me? I'm not involved." All she wanted was to read. Talking to Ichigo would be nice too, actually.

"C-Could you give me some... advice?" he nearly begged. "I can't figure out what I'm doing wrong."

She shot him a deadpan look. "You're being creepy. Stop being creepy, and she might warm up to you."

He pulled at his hair, utterly confused. "But how do I stop being creepy?!"

Ikuno found herself conflicted. On one hand, Futoshi was one of the worst. He constantly looked down on them, Kokoro especially. He was overbearing to a fault. It was almost condescending. But... he seemed genuine in his intent. Maybe he hadn't realized he was doing it? Mitsuru was a creep and always kept things close to his chest. He never shared anything with her. Perhaps Futoshi was actually looking to change? Adjusting her position against the wall, she sighed and reconsidered her options. Maybe she shouldn't be too hard on him.

"Look, Futoshi. You need to give Kokoro some space. I get it, you like her, but it really is just... obsessive? Relax a bit. You don't have to protect her all the time. Stop trying to be her bodyguard. Let her think for herself."

"I... I know," he groaned. "I just... I just worry about her, you know?"

"Stop underestimating us."

He blinked at her, gaping. "H-Huh?!"

"We're not weak," she snapped at him fiercely. "It's always the same deal with you boys. You think we're all going to fall over with a stiff breeze. You don't put enough faith in us. You should try emulating Hiro a bit more."

"Hiro? Why him?"

"What he has with Zero Two. You want that with Kokoro, right? That kind of bond?"

He nodded. "Of - of course!"

"Why do you think they're so comfortable around each other? It's because he doesn't constantly try to protect her or guide her. He doesn't treat her as below him. He trusts her. They don't lead each other, they're equals."

"But..." he stammered. "But isn't he afraid of her getting injured or hurt?"

Ikuno pinched her eyebrows. Why were they all so thick-headed?! "Zero Two is tough. Hiro knows that. She can take care of herself." She glared at him, peeved. "You want to know who else is tough, Futoshi? Kokoro. Me. Miku. Ichigo. We're all tough. If we weren't, we would've flunked out. So stop. Pretending. We're not. Okay?"

She stalked off, done with the conversation. She needed to find a good book to read.

Futoshi watched her go, sweating nervously.

She, um, was spending a biiiiiiiit more time in front of the mirror than she usually did. But... but that was okay! This was important, yupyup. It was the first time he was seeing her in this outfit! She had to look good!

Biting her lip, she tucked a stray strand of hair behind her left ear. She straightened the skirt more and adjusted the collar. Okay! Okayokay! A deep breath calmed her nerves somewhat. She could do this! He'd like it!

Exiting the bathroom, she bounded up the steps towards their room, where she'd told him to wait. The colors didn't match her as well as the Nines one did, sure, but she'd rather wear the same uniform as darling! That was more important and the other one was icky.

She opened the door a crack and peeked inside. He was sitting on the bed, waiting, and turned his gaze to her in curiosity.

"Close your eyes, darling!" she urged. He grinned and shut them, waiting. She snuck inside quickly, shutting and locking the door, and then removed her headband. Hands behind her back, she stood in front of him and straightened her posture.

"Okay, you can look!"

He opened his eyes, blinked twice, and shot to his feet in happy surprise.

"Wait, that's our...!"

She giggled. "How do I look?"

He looked her up and down, then pulled her into a big hug. "It's perfect," he breathed.

Her arms wrapped around him tightly. A weight lifted from her shoulders. She was finally... free! Her cage, gone. Together with him! Darling had freed her! IckygrossAPE's shadow, gone. The chains of the badbad Nines, gone! No longer a slave or tool or fodder killer! Just him! Just them! Freedom! His partner and his alone! His Zero Two! She belonged to him!

Nine-Iota was dead! Nine-Iota was dead!

"I'm finally official!" she whispered, eyes brimming with tears. "I'm finally darling's!"

He pulled back and nuzzled his horns against her passionately. "You've always been mine and I've always been yours. Now others can see that, too."

They closed their eyes. The connection was warm. Sososo waaaaaarm...! It spread down her horns, through her body. She felt his love, his strength. The relief was overwhelming. All her tension drained through her toes, leaving her with... peace. His emotions echoed through her, lifted her up and up, flying and drifting and soaaaaring. She pushed her horns against his, sent her love to him as their feelings mixed and swirled and joined and danced. It was beautiful. He was beautiful!

Like this, just like this! They could...

"We'll be-" said he.

"-together forever!" said she.

The glow of their horns cast away all the room's shadows.

Why had he even kept it all these years, anyway?

Goro idly thumbed the hairpin in his pocket. It was originally meant as a birthday present for Ichigo years ago, when they were younger and still in Garden. He'd asked Papa for it; Ichigo had complained about her hair always getting in her eyes and he thought it would make a good gift. But Hiro got her the same present, back then, about a year after his bad week. He'd walked in to see Ichigo receiving the gift from him, sparkles in her eyes. It had hurt, though at the time he hadn't known why. Ever since then he'd kept it as a... lucky charm? A memento? He didn't know. But he still had it, took it wherever he went. Chances were he wouldn't ever give the present to its intended recipient, but he supposed it was the thought that counted more than anything else.

"We've detected a Gutenberg-class klaxosaur at a distance of approximately 2,000 from here," Nana said, interrupting his thoughts. "It's moving slowly, but judging from its course, we predict that it'll make contact with the plantation. We must avoid a repeat of the previous Gutenberg attack at all costs."

"Yes ma'am!" the parasites replied in unison. Well, most of them. Goro sneaked a glance at Strelizia's pilots, who were in their usual spot, in their usual positions. As always, his head was in her lap and her hands were in his hair.

Only this time, Zero Two had pushed his bangs away and was massaging the skin at the base of his horns. Hiro had a goofy grin on his face and was... drooling a bit? Really? Wasn't that a little inappropriate? They were in a briefing!

"Also, the target is a long way away this time," Nana continued. "Your units have been loaded with more fuel than usual, so make a note of that."

"Any questions?" Hachi spoke. None replied. "Very well. This briefing is concluded. Get to your Franxx. Good luck."

Goro stood up with the rest of the squad and headed for the door leading into the hangar, but paused upon noticing Ichigo wasn't with him. He turned back as the rest walked past him. His partner had approached Hiro and Zero Two and taken them aside. He approached them, listening to the conversation. Ichigo had... taken off her hairpin? What was she doing?

"I did some research," Ichigo said. She looked down at the pin in her hand. "Your birthday is November 2nd, Zero Two."

The other girl looked at her, somewhat confused. "What do you..."

Ichigo looked up at her, smiling. "That's the day Hiro named you in the snow."

Utter silence was the reply. Strelizia's pilots looked at her, stunned. Ichigo gently took Zero Two's hand and placed the hairpin in her palm.

"Hiro gave this to me for my tenth birthday, a year after he'd met you. I think that, had you been in Garden with us, he'd have given it to you, instead." She looked over at Hiro, grinning. "Right?"

"Ichigo, you..." Hiro stammered.

Her gaze returned to Zero Two and she released her hand. "November 2nd was a few weeks ago. It's a little late, but happy birthday, Zero Two."

Goro knew how hard this was for her. It was her most valued possession, her most treasured item. And she was giving it away. Giving him away, for good. His fist clenched in frustration and sympathy. She kept doing these things alone! He should be there for her! He watched as Ichigo turned around and began walking towards him.

"I'll... I'll keep it always!" Zero Two called after her, lips quivering. "I promise!"

Ichigo stopped, looking over her shoulder. She beamed broadly. "I know you will."

She pat his arm as she walked into the hangar. He turned to follow her, but stopped again and glanced back at Hiro and Zero Two. His hand was under her left bang, gently pushing a wayward lock of hair behind her ear. Carefully, with the utmost focus, he placed the hairpin against the strands by her temple so it held the hair in place. Hiro admired his handiwork, rubbing her cheek with his thumb.

"Beautiful," he told her softly.

Goro watched as she nuzzled his hand. The way those two looked at each other...

"I love you," she breathed.

"I love you too. Happy birthday."

Delphinium's stamen turned around and walked into the hangar unnoticed, giving them their privacy. So that's what that emotion was. He finally had a name for it.

He loved Ichigo.

She was waiting for him on the platform leading into Delphinium's cockpit. He sighed a bit, considering his options, but at last decided on the one that came... naturally?

He gave her a hug. She didn't return it, but didn't stiffen or push away either. That was fine. He didn't expect his feelings to be mutual.

"I'm proud of you, Ichigo," he told her. She sighed and nodded against his chest. "I'm here for you. You know that, right? You can talk to me."

It was a long moment before her shaky hands came up and wrapped around his back. He heard her sniffle.

"...Yeah."

But... But I don't get why...

His arms wrapped around her stomach gently and his head rested on her shoulder. The perfect ocean washed over her.

Because she's right.

Huh?

Look.

He was in front of her then, leaning in close. Their lips connected tenderly and the visions flowed into her like a gentle river. Ichigo's tenth birthday. The present he'd asked for from Papa. But... insincere? He was thinking about...

Me?

Even when I was giving it to her, the only thing I could think about was your hair.

Her wild locks, that bang she'd chopped off once she got older and found a pair of scissors. He'd wanted to help her with it?

If you were with me then, I would've given it to you. For your birthday.

She deepened the kiss.

I love the hairpin. Thanks!

I'm glad.

"Alright, this is the place. Anyone see anything?" Delphinium called out. They separated and looked around.

Huh? Wasn't there supposed to be a stupid klaxosaur around here?

It was supposed to be a Gutenberg-class, too. It's kinda hard to miss something that big.

The sensors read enemy contact, but there was nothing but empty desert. The air itself was still and silent. The source of the emissions was directly in front of them, so what was going on?

"This is Delphinium," Ichigo reported. "We're at the signal source but not seeing any enemy contacts."

"Sensors are still picking up a Gutenberg-class at your location," Hachi returned over the comms. "Search the area, but be careful."

"Alright, let's split up and-"

"Wait!"

It was Genista. Kokoro had lifted a hand and was pointing off in the distance. "What's that?"

A tiny, black object was on the hazy horizon. Squinting, the Franxx activated their inbuilt optics and magnified the picture for their stamen.

"It's... human-shaped?" Futoshi asked, confused.

Zorome traced the figure with his eyes. "The hell? It almost looks like a..."

It was a girl.

A girl with white hair.

She - it? - raised an imperial finger, pointing at the group.

And from the depths emerged the klaxosaurs.

"What in the world?" Goro muttered nervously. "There's... so many of them..."

Almost a hundred Conrad-class klaxosaurs broke through the sands. The strange, girl-like creature was obscured amongst the crowd. From beyond the mass broke two Worm-classes, which sailed clean over the Conrads and dug into the dirt. The sand on the surface erupted in plumes of dust. The worms were headed directly for them.

"This is bad," Mitsuru muttered.

"Everyone, separate!" Ichigo ordered quickly. "Argentea and Chlorophytum, take the left worm! Genista, we're dealing with the right worm! Strelizia, deal with the Conrads!"

"Roger!" the squad replied in unison. Strelizia shot off down the middle, thrusters humming and spear primed.

We need to keep the others from being swarmed, Zero Two. Let's get their focus onto us.

Right!

The weapon was detached from the left arm. Hefting it into a throwing position, Zero Two and Hiro put their backs into it and hurled the spear into the oncoming Conrads. Like a bullet it flew, the velocity forcing it through the first klaxosaurs hit. It slammed into a Conrad in the middle of the pack; Strelizia triggered the magma energy eruption, sending a shockwave outwards and into the crowd. The explosion tore through the Conrads, sending dead chunks flying in all directions. The duo slammed on the thrusters and the mech lifted off the ground, jumping its way into the klaxosaurs. It grabbed the spear began spinning recklessly. The sheer number of enemies surrounding them meant they could be liberal with their aim, and sure enough, the tactic worked. No matter where they thrust the spear, a Conrad was impaled. No matter where they twisted and turned, a klaxosaur died. The beasts tried to fight back but Strelizia had become a force of nature - they couldn't get a solid hit in, not before they were inevitably torn to shreds.

But right as the cluster became suitably thinned, Strelizia shuddered and rocketed itself straight up vertically.

Zero Two?!

I - I don't know! It just moved by itself!

The ground exploded beneath them. They found themselves staring at the flying dust and rocks, and from the debris came what appeared to be a giant snake.

What the hell is that, darling?!

You've never seen that type before?!

I've... I've never even heard of it!

Zero Two readied the spear and prepared to run the thing through. But the snake's upwards motion was greater than expected and it was suddenly upon them. It opened its wide, cavernous mouth, fangs gleaming ominously, and propelled itself straight into Strelizia.

"Okay! Let's give it all we got! Get ready, Kokoro!"

"Ready, Ichigo!"

They had watched the footage. They knew how to beat these things. Strelizia had fought and won against one before. If they employed the same strategy and got it above ground, then...!

"Goro!"

"Right!"

Delphinium launched itself into the air and surged the bladed tonfas with energy. It flipped through the air, turning itself to face towards the incoming plume of sand, and then fired the thrusters. Goro braced himself as the sudden shift in g-force hit the mech. He twisted the controls and straightened out legs first as Ichigo aimed the weapons. Right as they impacted the ground they unleashed the stored power; the worm was blasted into the air from the resulting shockwave and Goro felt himself wince as the pained howl echoed in through the audio systems. The creature reeled back, dazed. Ichigo looked over her shoulder at the approaching Genista as she spun out of the way.

"Now!"

Kokoro hefted the cannon, arming all rounds. "Futoshi!"

"Let's go!" he yelled. They aimed at the worm's center mass, where the core was assumed to be, and sped into point blank range before slamming the bayonet of the weapon into the thick hide. Futoshi adjusted, dropping low and bracing Genista's shoulder against the weapon. Kokoro let loose the rounds in a single, monumental burst of power, blasting a hole clean through the klaxosaur's body. The worm shuddered as the core was eviscerated by the cannon's might and its body toppled forward like a felled tree. Still recovering from the sudden expulsion of energy, Kokoro didn't have enough time to get out of the way by herself. Ichigo's eyes widened and she tried to rush in to grab her - but she wasn't going to make it, she was too far away.

Right in the nick of time, Chlorophytum tackled Genista out of the way. The worm slammed against the ground, sending up a wave of dust.

"Are you alright?!" Ikuno asked quickly.

"Ikuno! Mitsuru!" Kokoro breathed, relieved.

"Nice job, guys!" Ichigo complimented, speeding in from the side. "What about the second worm? Where's Argentea?"

Zorome's voice streamed in through the comms. "It's dead! Over here, over here!"

Delphinium looked over towards Argentea's IFF signature. Miku was waving at them from atop the second worm's eviscerated carcass, absolutely covered in blue klaxosaur blood.

"We kicked its ass!" she cheered. "But... um... this is gross. I want a shower."

Ichigo sighed in relief. "That... wasn't so bad. All that's left are the Conrads. Where's Strelizia?"

They waited for an answer, but there was no reply.

"Strelizia?" Delphinium called out again, growing increasingly worried. "Hiro? Zero Two? Status report!"

Still nothing. But then the IFF signature popped up and the Franxx units turned in its direction. Strelizia was on the ground, wrapped in a strange, snake-like klaxosaur's winding grasp. The white mech was struggling against it vainly, but its arms and legs were bound and the spear was held securely in the thing's mouth. The faceplate was deactivated.

"No! Not again!" Ichigo breathed. "Everyone! Move!"

They gasped as the mind meld was forcibly disconnected as the mech hit the ground. The first thing they heard upon regaining their physical senses was the incessant banging. Something was pounding against the cockpit, trying to force entry. The monitors were disabled and the cabin was dark. They didn't know what was happening.

"What the-" Zero Two exclaimed, startled. Cables erupted from beneath the pistil terminal and wrapped around her, lifting her into the air.

"H-Hey!" Hiro shouted. More tendrils grabbed him as well. They were hoisted away and brought to the back of the cockpit, past the stamen's seat. The cables looped around their shoulders, waists and legs securely, preventing them from moving. Even more wires appeared; these ones were thicker, bulkier and were clearly focused on the sealed hatch. They positioned themselves in front of the two pilots. Long, pointed spikes emerged from their tips with a mechanical screech and they aimed at the door.

Watching. Waiting.

The pounding continued. With a jolt the monitors activated again, finally giving them a view of the situation. A small, child-like girl was directly in front of them, hanging onto the exterior with several black and blue spider-like limbs. Another limb was pounding against the hatch viciously, trying to get inside.

Blue skin, white hair. The creature paused, noticing something, and leaned in close. Her pupils were glowing a chilling blue.

Just like her horns.

She - it - licked her lips. Hiro and Zero Two heard a voice in their heads. Quiet, ethereal, terrifying.

Found you.

Then the creature looked to her left suddenly and was gone. Hiro and Zero Two watched helplessly as Strelizia twisted its head to track the thing's movement.

The others were rushing to their position - but then Delphinium crashed into the sand, still and silent. The girl was on its head... and gone again. One after another, the other Franxx deactivated and collapsed. Groaning in mechanical frustration, Strelizia's head rotated back to the snake and managed to yank its tail free from the beast's mouth. The tail hovered in the air momentarily before slamming into the thing's face, the spear penetrating it up to the hilt. The klaxosaur hissed in agony and unwound itself just enough for Strelizia to lurch free. The tail removed itself, coated in blue blood, and the mech bounded away to land in front of Delphinium. It crouched protectively, growling.

The girl landed on the snake's head. The klaxosaur was sturdy - it was clear that the tail hadn't hit the core. It stared at Strelizia and Strelizia stared back.

"It really is moving on its own," Zero Two whispered, horrified.

Hiro reached over and grabbed her hand tightly. "Stay still for now," he urged. "I think it's on our side."

The voice sounded in their heads again.

So it is true. Interesting.

The snake's mouth opened. The girl sat on its tongue regally.

We shall leave you alone for now, child. Eventually, you will come to us. We shall be waiting.

Mouth closing, the snake burrowed beneath the sand. Silence returned to the world.

Unending, perpetual silence.

"Move, damn it! Move!"

She fought against the controls. Nothing happened. Delphinium was a husk, an oversized slab of metal. Why was she so useless?! Damn it! Damn it all! She had to help them, they were trapped again! Strelizia was rampaging out there and she needed to get them out!

"Come on, come on! They need our-"

Two warm hands gripped her shoulders and gently pulled her up from the controls.

"Ichigo," Goro interrupted. "Relax."

"Let me go, Goro! They're in trouble!"

He moved in front of her and leaned in close, blocking her view of the pistil control panel. "Stop. Listen. The fighting's over."

She paused, confused. But he was right. The usual ruckus of combat wasn't there. All was quiet. Which meant...

Groaning in frustration, she pushed away the bangs obscuring her vision. This sucked! Again, she'd failed to help them and now she had to deal with her stupid hair, too! Why were things always so complicated? Sure, they'd been improving recently, but what difference did it make if their Franxx could just be disabled willy-nilly like that!

But then she blinked and was yanked from her thoughts by a warm hand pushing her hair into its usual position. Goro was leaning over her. His other hand was holding... a...

"My... my hairpin? But I gave that to..."

Her partner grinned at her. "This is a different one." He affixed it to her hair, clearing her vision.

"H-Huh?"

Goro sighed, scratching his cheek sheepishly. "That year, your tenth birthday. You were always complaining about your hair but never wanted a haircut, so I asked Papa for something to help. That's what he gave me. But Hiro asked for the same thing and gave it to you as a present."

"Then... why do you still have it?"

He shrugged. "I, ah, never had the heart to get rid of it. Pretty lame, huh?"

That was... adorable. Had he always been that kind? She'd... never noticed...

She shook her head. "No, it's not. Thanks, Goro."

"I'm glad I finally got to give it to you after all these years," he laughed. But then he blinked. "O-Oh, speaking of hairpins, I finally learned the name of that emotion. The one Hiro and Zero Two feel for each other."

Wait, what? When had he learned that?! That was important! She'd been searching for that word ever since... ever since the incident in Delphinium!

"Really? What is it? What's it called?" she asked, leaning in close. A bead of sweat ran down his cheek and he looked away suddenly, blushing.

"L-Love," he grunted. "It's called love."

Love...

"Love," she said experimentally, testing out the word. "Love, love, love love love. Loooooo-ve."

Why was he looking so embarrassed? It was kinda cute, honestly. Now that she thought about it, she hadn't been paying him enough attention recently. All of her focus had been on dealing with Hiro and Zero Two. He was her partner! That was so rude of her! And he was always helping her out, too, wasn't he? That hug he gave her earlier really helped her get a handle on her emotions. She'd have to treat him better. He deserved it with how much crap she put him through all the time.

"A-Anyway!" he stammered. He reached out and squeezed her hand gently. "We should try and start up Delphinium again. Maybe the system's fixed itself?"

Crap, he was right! They had to check on the squad and Strelizia!

"Yeah!"

He took one step forward, two steps back. Nothing was ever simple, it seemed. Not that he had any right to complain - as always, the situation was his fault. But he hadn't expected her to move so quickly and it had caught him off guard.

And on top of that...

He read the message over again, running a hand through his mustache. Those old geezers were sticking their noses in places they shouldn't. The time table had narrowed. But again, that was fine. He had countermeasures ready. And the children were developing at a steady, rapid pace. It was a little tighter than he would've liked, but he could manage.

He tapped a button. "Nana."

"Doctor?"

"Come to my office immediately, please."

"Of course. I'll be there shortly."

The call made, Werner reached under his desk and pulled out an old satellite phone. The systems were ancient and decrepit, but old, pre-magma technology was surprisingly reliable. The farts only payed attention to the newfangled communication systems, anyway. He dialed a number. A feminine voice answered on the other end.

"Doctor! I was wondering when you would make contact."

He rolled his eye. Was that any way for a child to talk to their elder?

"I have an assignment for you, Naomi."