Zorome

Zorome (ゾロメ, Zorome) is one of the main characters in DARLING in the FRANXX. He is a former Parasite with the codename "666" of the Thirteenth Plantation, where he is partnered in boy-girl pair with Miku to pilot a FRANXX called Argentea.
Aside from being the most immature member of the squad, he is the most loyal to the adults and APE, and his long-reaching goal is to become an adult himself. He presents himself as somewhat of a bully and pervert but he is also a dedicated member of the squad and willing to do whatever it takes to help his squadmates.
== Appearance ==
Zorome has purple eyes and unruly light brown hair which flares out on the sides and back. He has long bangs which mostly cover his forehead. On top of his head, he has an ahoge (アホ毛, Literally meaning: foolish hair). Standing at 161 cm, he was originally the shortest stamen of the Thirteenth Plantation.
In Episode 24 when he has become an adult, Zorome has grown significantly taller and has developed slightly sharper facial features. He also wears a matching pink necklace together with Miku.
== Personality ==
Zorome is often short-tempered and impulsive, similar to his partner Miku and he is prone to make mistakes when he gets agitated or excited. He also enjoys starting arguments, especially with his own squad mates to boast he is better than any of them, especially Hiro, whom he loathes for being a special test subject and receiving special privileges. He is very sarcastic and has a strong ego, as he uses any opportunity he can to prove that he is better than the 'double digits' that seem to be considered as 'elites' when it comes to being Parasites. He longs to be an adult and greatly looks up to them and Papa.
He takes great pride as a parasite and, up until Papa’s betrayal towards the parasites, Zorome was the only person within the squad who truly believed in him and felt his decisions, including those seen as illogical and unjustified, were done for a reasonable cause.
Zorome initially had a difficult relationship with his squad mates. He antagonized Hiro for being considered a genius but failed to pass his capacity test and expressed skepticism he was capable of piloting a FRANXX. He took delight in humiliating Hiro by mocking him for his failure to synchronize with Ichigo, taking it as proof Hiro was lying about piloting with Zero Two, and starting a physical altercation with him out of frustration when Hiro refused to admit he may have been mistaken about piloting with Zero Two. He was also wary towards Zero Two due to her dark past as the ‘Partner Killer’ and the rumors surrounding her involving her partners dying after a third ride due to her devouring their life force.
He has a perverted side towards the girls, especially when it comes to Miku, but he lacks to see the need to have a relationship with a female beyond piloting. Despite his impulsiveness and immaturity, Zorome truly cares about his friends and will do anything to protect them from harm. He goes as far as to say that he doesn’t want to see any of the girls hurt any more than the other boys do, and he is willing to swallow his pride if it will mean keeping a compatible relationship with Miku.
Despite his apparent gruff attitude, his actions reveal that he cares deeply for Miku and is fiercely loyal to their partnership to the point he admits he finds no reason for them to split up and, despite her flaws, he prefers pairing with her. It is heavily implied that Zorome has feelings for Miku but his pride and lack of knowledge of love keep him from realizing them. He also develops a good relationship with Futoshi, although this doesn’t stop Zorome from making fun of his weight and calling him names. However, Zorome worries about his health when Futoshi begins showing symptoms of bulimia and pleads for him to stop pretending to eat if it hurts him. In addition to being uninterested in romance, Zorome is oblivious to the concept of affection and intimacy, as he is flabbergasted at how clingy and flirtatious Hiro and Zero Two behave, how intimately close Kokoro and Mitsuru become, and when Goro boldly kissed Ichigo. Despite this, he is supportive of all the relationships his friends establish. He seems to have a fondness for children, as he was visibly excited when Ai was born and he channels this fondness into becoming a teacher. He seems to slack on his career responsibilities but he is well-liked by the children, as he teases and plays with them.
== History ==
Like the other parasites, Zorome was raised in the Garden. He received the code name of "666," indicating that he did not receive special treatment from the adults. At some point, Hiro gives him the name of "Zorome."
As a child, he was cared for by an unknown adult, who is strongly hinted to be the Old Woman, who may have been his biological mother. But whatever memories he had of her, he quickly forgot them due to the isolation in the Garden.
Several years later, at age 14, upon being discharged from the Garden, he was assigned to Plantation 13 and paired with Miku.
=== Episode 01: Alone and Lonesome ===
At Mistilteinn, Zorome talks about the Partner Killer, who has horns, fangs, and any parasite that rides with her will have his blood sucked and die after the third time. Futoshi says he wouldn't ride with her. Miku says that it's just a rumor, but Zorome replies that someone had heard the security talking about it. Ichigo reveals she hasn’t heard from Hiro since he and Naomi failed their capacity test. Zorome and the others wonder if Hiro really will leave.
At Cerasus, the parasites attend their graduation ceremony where they are praised by Papa. Zorome and Futoshi are amazed by the adults in the audience. In the train, the group discuss Hiro on their way to the startup ritual. Zorome calls Hiro a crybaby for not showing up to the ceremony and they should forget about him. At this ritual, they finally become official parasites. Before they can begin, a fog rolls in and a Moho class klaxosaur appears. The parasites watch as Strelizia defeats it. They are shocked when it's revealed that Hiro was piloting it.
=== Episode 02: What it Means to Connect ===
The day after the klaxosaur attack, the startup ritual picks up where it left off, but in much quieter circumstances and without Papa and the other adults.
While eating in the mess hall, Zorome walks up to Zero Two and tells her that she can pilot with him if she wants, as he claims he is better than Hiro. Zero Two however, doesn't even listen to him and responds by wiping her honey-stained hand against his uniform, much to his horror. Like all the parasites, Zorome is confused when Zero Two calls Hiro ‘darling’ and they wonder what it means. Nana comes in and announces she will be their caregiver like she was in the Garden, which makes them happy.
While preparing for their drill, Zorome shoves past Hiro, who still believes he piloted with Zero Two. Zorome retorts he doesn’t believe Hiro at all.
Afterwards, while Futoshi and Zorome pass a ball around, Mitsuru leans against a pole. Mitsuru says that he heard Zero Two can pilot a FRANXX alone, and asks if they saw its four-legged form. When Zorome sees Hiro, he kicks the ball at Hiro and begins making fun of him for not being able to pilot. Hiro insists he did pilot a FRANXX but Zorome calls him a liar because Hiro would never forget about it and they begin to fight. Ichigo and Goro intervene to stop them.
Nana calls a meeting and the parasites all attend. They announce that Hiro will have a mock battle, possibly allowing him to be promoted. Though he's about to pilot with Zero Two, Ichigo volunteers instead. Zorome and Miku volunteers to be their opponents and go full power on them. However, Hiro and Ichigo lose their connection early on and Ichigo asks for a three minute recess. After three minutes pass, Zorome decides to attack and begins fighting aggressively against a still Delphinium. Argentea begins slowing down due to Miku’s resistance and Ichigo pilots Delphinium alone out of anger, and takes Argentea to the ground, declaring it a draw.
=== Episode 03: Fighting Puppet ===
While talking about Hiro becoming a parasite, Zorome says that there's no way he'll get in. Mitsuru is unimpressed since Zorome and Miku were the ones who only managed a draw against them. Zorome blames Miku for randomly falling over, and she angrily asks if he remembers what he said when that happened.
Later in the FRANXX, Zorome is excited for the mission but Miku tells him not to go crazy by himself again. Everyone except Chlorophytum who failed to connect, went 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.
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 while 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. Nana says Zero Two won't be allowed to sortie.
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.
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.
=== 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.
The other members of Squad 13 discussed Hiro and Zero Two, as well as the partner killing rumor possibly being true after seeing how gravely injured and traumatized Mitsuru was after piloting Strelizia.
A giant worm Klaxosaur was heading towards Plantation 13. All Franxx but Strelizia were deployed to stop it.
=== Episode 05: Your Thorn, My Badge ===
The parasites watch as the plantations connect. Zorome asks what "kissing" is. Miku mocks him, but he asks her if she knows what it means but she doesn't know either and tries to explain it. Kokoro is amused by this. Ikuno explains that it's a transfer of magma fiel 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.
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 eachother, 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 prays 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.
Goro stands outside of Delphinium. Zorome yells to him and he finds that the other plantation is there.
A stamen says that their designs are all unique. They didn't know that they were, and one explains that their FRANXX have similar bodies and equipment all around, making it easier for them to fight together. He says that he was told they were a hastily-assembled test team and asks if this was their first kiss. Goro says that it is. 090 smiles and says that they're more experienced, so if there's anything they don't know to ask.
Zorome becomes excited and says that he has a question. He asks if any of the children there had became adults. 090 doesn't understand, so a boy with a bandage says that he doesn't know. 090 says that they hadn't, saddening Zorome. He asks if they heard any rumors about it, and he says no.
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.
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.
=== 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.
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 Squa 26 hog the glory. Mitsuru says that shouldn't be why they're fighting.
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.
Squad 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 Squad 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 praises him. They continue to fight. Ichigo tells Strelizia to go back, but Hiro says it's fine. She says to get back again, so Zero Two calls her bossy.
Squad 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.
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.
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. They walk out together and the two groups celebrate. As Zero Two watches, she says she has to kill more klaxosaurs.
=== Episode 07: Shooting Star Moratorium ===
Looking at the sun, Ikuno narrates that after the successful kissing with Plantation 26, Squad 13 was given a special vacation. The kids seem happy and Futoshi and Zorome run to the water. Though Miku says that they're childish, Kokoro smiles and says that it's expected, as it's their first time seeing an ocean that's okay to swim in. Ikuno says that she didn't know a place like that survived on the surface.
Goro sets up an umbrella and tells Futoshi and Zorome not to go too far out. Ichigo tells him that Nana will pick them up the next morning. Goro wonders if it's some kind of training, but Ichigo smiles and says that they should enjoy themselves anyway. Goro blushes and agrees, turning away.
Mitsuru leads the group through a thin pass. Kokoro says that she's a bit scared of the dark. Mitsuru coldly replies that she didn't have to come if she didn't want to. Futoshi is angered by this and tells him to be nice to her. He says that he can't guarantee their safety.
They're lead to what appears to be a city. Kokoro asks if people live there, and Mitsuru replies that he'd never heard of anyone living outside the plantations. Zorome spots a building that looks similar to their own boarding house. Ikuno says that they must have used it as a model to build the environment they live in. Futoshi wonders where Kokoro went.
Back at the beach, food had been delivered. Mitsuru watches Futoshi stuff food into his mouth. Miku teases Futoshi and Zorome by lying on her lap.
Mitsuru asks if he's doubting Papa and the rest. He says that they moved into plantations in order to protect mankind. This pumps Zorome up, to Mitsuru's disdain. When Zorome refers to Hiro as their teammate, Mitsuru looks annoyed.
When Zorome finds a crab, Futoshi wants to eat it. Mitsuru is surprised that he still wants to eat, causing the others to laugh.
The parasites all sleep close together, with Futoshi and Zorome lying atop one another.
=== Episode 08: Boys × Girls ===
As the parasites are fighting a klaxosaur, it spews goo. It leaks into the cockpits and melts the girls' parasite suits. Though the boys begin spacing out, they don't tell the girls. Hiro finally tells Zero Two and the rest of the girls realize what's happened.
The girls cover themselves with a towel and glare at their partners. Besides Zero Two, who doesn't seem to mind. The boys look embarrassed, and Goro explains they only didn't tell because they didn't want to distract them during the battle. Futoshi says he didn't because he found Kokoro to be amazingly beautiful. Kokoro turns red and looks away. Mitsuru calls him an idiot and walks away.
Zorome tells him that it's not like it hurt them to be seen, and Hiro says that Zero Two said it is better that parasites are a bit pervy, which Zero Two confirms. This annoys the girls further.
The girls begin splitting the area of the house between the boys and girls. Zorome begins to cross, but is threatened by Miku and stops. Dr. FRANXX and the two apes watch. Hachi says that it's unprecedented for so many members of a squad to hit puberty at once. Nana says that it has always been at most one or two together. Nana says that if they go by Ape's manual, they should intervene and resolve the issue immediately. Dr. FRANXX asks what would be the point of the test team if they did that. He tells them to observe and write for him detailed reports. He tells them not to interfere or tell "the geezers."
The girls talk about what's happened but notice that Zero Two is ignoring their split. As they go to reprimand her, the boys walk in from swimming in the lake wearing only boxers. Though Miku tells them to get dressed, Zorome says they can do whatever they like on their side. As they clean the bath, Ichigo says that it must have been Goro's idea.
When they go to eat, the boys are already there. Goro says that they've already taken over the area. Miku becomes annoyed, so Goro suggests that drop all the rules and eat together. Zero Two walks in and Miku attempts to follow her, but the other girls pull her back.
Miku, Ichigo, and Ikuno look for food and go to the first floor. They find a room that says "keep out." Ikuno says she wouldn't mind if it was always sealed off. Zero Two changes the girls only bath sign to allow boys and, when they enter naked, the girls are already bathing. They become angry and begin throwing bathing supplies at them. Zero Two runs out with their clothes and Hiro chases her. They meet on the roof where Hiro begins laughing after she throws their clothes in the air. She says she wanted to take part in a human fight.
The other parasites continue to bicker when Nana suddenly interrupts. She and Hachi scold the group after they get dressed. In the girl's room, she tells them if they half-ass things, they'll end up adults. She says to say what they want because they'll all die sooner or later. In the boys room, Zorome is mad and Mitsuru says that they must look down of the boys. Hiro says it was fun and got to see a more human side of Zero Two. Mitsuru says it's not the same for them, since they have normal partners. Hiro says she is a normal girl and that pistils let stamen handle all the controls, but they bear the brunt of each battle.
Kokoro says that they need to begin working together again after looking at her book. She says that they need them to pilot the FRANXX and, blushing, having children. Miku says she's she'll continue no matter what and heads into one of the sealed rooms. There, she finds a picture of another group and panics. The rest find her and wonder what the room is. Zero Two says that it's probably one of the rooms the former Squad 13 used. Zorome questions what happened and Zero Two says they were obviously wiped out.
Zorome apologizes and says he won't leer anymore. Miku says that she's too cute, so a little bit is okay. Each partner apologizes, except Mitsuru and Hiro. Later on, Zorome and Miku are seen bickering before they enter their FRANXX.
=== Episode 09: Triangle Bomb ===
The parasites are happy to receive their annual gifts from Papa and Zorome receives a ball.
Zorome shouts that he'll read Papa's message. The parasites smile as he reads it out loud. The letter congratulates and praises them, making everyone happy. Hiro notices that Zero Two is unfazed by the letter.
Hachi tells the parasites that they've detected a Gutenberg-class Klaxosaur 2,000 from there. Nana says it's moving slowly. As she continues to talk, Hiro looks over at Ichigo but turns away when she looks at him.
The FRANXX approach the klaxosaur and Argentea approaches first. It is wrapped in tentacles and brought closer. It attaches explosives, which causes slight injury. Zorome notices the core and quickly charges at it. He only nicks it and it begins to multiply its jelly. Goro quickly pushes them out, but is stuck instead. Goro quickly launches Ichigo before it explodes.
Goro wakes up and turns off the alarms. Hiro begins messaging him. He says that Ichigo's fine but got knocked out by the ejection and is getting treated with Zorome and Miku. Hiro explains that he's inside the klaxosaur. They were ordered to retreat. Futoshi promises that they'll figure something out. Goro says that he's switching to safe mode to conserve power.
Ikuno says that you can't utilize a FRANXX's magma energy without its pistil. Mitsuru says that they are programmed to run their life support sustems on backup power. Zero Two says he'll die if it runs out and they'll all be in danger.
Ichigo suddenly charges in with Miku and Zorome following. Though Miku tries to stop her, Ichigo asks what happened. Zorome says he told her that he tried to save them. She turns and asks why they aren't going to rescue him and how they could abandon him. She asks why he'd cut her loose when he's helpless alone. Zorome becomes uncomfortable and backs away from their argument. Miku sighs and calls her annoying and says that Goro's always looking out for her, like the time Hiro almost died when she broke down and Goro got her back on her feet. Ichigo asks what gives her the right to talk to her like that. Miku says that she's supposed to be the leader, but she loses her cool and lashes out constantly, and Goro must have a hard time with her as his partner.
Nana and Hachi enter and, smiling, Nana claps her hands and says that she's glad they're safe. Hachi explains that the klaxosaur vaporizes its bodily fluids to expland and explode. Kokoro asks if Goro's stuck in its fuel. Nana says that the fluid is harmless to FRANXX. Zorome says that they'll rescue Goro first, since he owes him. Hachi coldly says that their top priority is preventing the target from making contact with the plantation and explains their plan. Hiro angrily asks if they'll leave Goro to die. Nana says that if worst comes to worst. Hachi tells them to prapare to sortie. Ichigo asks to speak to Goro.
Goro says it's been 30 minutes since they radioed. Sweating, he tries to loosen his collar. In his hand, he holds Ichigo's hairpin. Ichigo calls out to him and he is happy that she came to. She suddenly shouts, scolding him, but he smiles. She sadly asks why he doesn't lean on her a little. Crying, she promises to save him. He says he came up with a plan and he's going to kill it and come home to her. He says he needs to go to conserve power.
Ichigo asks Hachi to be allowed to save him. Hiro agrees. Nana asks what they intend to do. Zero Two says that there's an exhaust hole on top of the klaxosaur.
Genista and Chlorophytum stand as the last line of defense. Ichigo sits in Strelizia's hand. Hiro says that, to get to Delphinium, she'll have to cross an area of highly pressurized vapor fuel. Zero Two says she wouldn't do it if she was her. Smiling, Ichigo says she believes in her. Zero Two smiles and says she doesn't dislike that. They throw her in and she swims to Delphinium.
The klaxosaur approaches the line. Goro thinks that he used to think that he didn't mind if his feelings never got through to her. As Ichigo swims, her hairclip comes off. At 6%, Goro says that he has more than enough to self-destruct, and an extra pack. He says he wishes he could have told her. Ichigo suddenly bursts in and says that the air's thin. He asks why she came, and she says he's so headstrong, even though he's weak. She says that they can't win alone, but together they can. Goro smiles with tears in his eyes. He narrates that he though he was satisfied that she would cry for him, but he's happier than ever to see her smile. He extends his hand to her. They leave and Goro drops the bomb, causing it to explode once they're away from it.
=== Episode 10: The City of Eternity ===
Zorome narrates that he'd been having the same dream over and over again where he's surrounded by darkness and staring at a distant bright light, and crying. Gradually, the light grows larger until it envelops him, and he lets out a loud scream.
The FRANXX attack a klaxasaur and easily disarm it. Zorome and Miku deliver the final blow, but Zorome takes too long to pull out and it shoots blood all over Argentea.
Zorome and Miku argue about their previous battle. Hiro notices that Zero Two seems sad, so he asks her what's wrong. She replies that she was just thinking about something and they both leave together. Nana shouts that she has good news.
The parasites gather around her and she happily explains that they have to wear their formal clothing the next day as Papa is going to award them medals. The ceremony will be held in the Plantation Parliament HQ. Though the other kids are excited, Zorome doesn't understand and seems indifferent to the medals. Miku explains that it means they can go into the city. Zorome looks to Nana for confirmation and she smiles. He becomes overjoyed and yells, to the annoyance of Miku.
The next morning, the kids stand at the door and they remark that Zorome looks cooler than usual. Zorome smugly agrees, but Futoshi teasingly says that he was checking himself out in the mirror the entire morning. Mitsuru asks how he didn't get sick of it, causing Zorome to become angry. Kokoro giggles and says that he does look a lot cooler, though, returning him to his positive mood. Miku tells Kokoro not to flatter him, causing she and Zorome to bicker again. Hiro notices that Zero Two is being standoffish, but Hachi and Nana open the door and they all leave.
At an ID gate, Hachi and Nana easily pass through. The children hesitate so Nana tells them to come along. Zorome suddenly throws himself through the gate, to the amazement of the others, but lands on the ground.
The children marvel at the city. At the ceremony, the mayor congratulates them and thanks them for their efforts. When he congratulates Ichigo, she says that it was everyone's effort. He tells Zero Two that their plantation is honoured that a former Nine like herself has joined them. He turns to Hiro and says that he's lived up well to the expectations placed upon him. Hiro thanks him, but looks troubled and turns to Zero Two who still looks indifferent.
He thanks Miku and when the mayor thanks Zorome, he is overjoyed and offers his hand. The mayor seems confused and walks away.
Afterwards, Zorome stares at his hand. When Hachi says that he's leaving the rest to Nana, the children are disappointed with how the ceremony actually played out. The girls push Nana to let them walk back, and she reluctantly agrees.
The children look around as they walk back. Zorome happily looks forward to when they too can live there as adults. The others disagree and feel like they won't be able to become adults, though they don't know why.
Zero Two and Hiro walk far behind the group. Hiro asks what she meant when she said the city was lifeless. She says just what I said. Hiro says that she'd been acting weird, and asks if something happened. She says that she just couldn't care less about this place.
The children marvel at the city's main energy source. When Goro asks Ichigo, she seems uncomfortable. He says that maybe he shouldn't have told her how he felt and says to not let it bother her.
Nana tells them they have to return, but Zorome wanders off and is separated. He looks at the energy source, but realizes that he's been seperated and cannot contact the others.
Zorome notes that the city seems empty. He sees a person and calls out, but they walk away. Zorome tries to crawl down, but notices an adult and falls to the ground.
He wakes up to find that he'd been treated by an adult. She is happy that he is okay and says that the medical checker just wouldn't work on you. But I tried a bunch of things, like using pet mode settings, and then it worked out. Before she can let them know where he is, Zorome asks to just talk for a bit. She agrees and removes her face covering.
She appears to be an elder woman. Later, she disinfects the house and offers Zorome some tea and sweets. Zorome stuffs them in his mouth. He asks her various questions, and she explains that There was a time when I used to enjoy the sense of taste, but I don't really care now. As long as my body gets the nutrition it needs, that's enough, she lives with her partner. She asks if he'd like to meet him.
She brings him to a dark room where her partner lies in a machine. He smiles and the woman explains that he's activating his brain's reward system to gain a sense of pleasure. Zorome says that he'd rather gain it by eating those snacks from earlier. She falls to her knees and says that talking had just made her tired.
They return to the living room. She says that she doesn't even remember what his voice sounds like. She remarks:
-I don't think either of us is dissatisfied with out partner. We don't meddle in each other's business, which gives us the freedom to live our lives as we please.
Zorome complains about Miku, so she says that he should change his partner, then. He is taken back and begins defending her. The woman somehow already knew his code. She becomes more ill and says that she needs to get him picked up.
On the phone, she says that she checked with him, so there's no doubt about it.
She returns to say he'll be there soon, but notices that he's crying. He says that he doesn't know why, but she feels really familiar somehow. He feels that someone's always been watching over him. Gentle and kind, like they're always there to protect him.
She says that he is mistaken, as they kids are the ones protecting them. Zorome becomes happy and tells her that he'll keep protecting it, fighting until he kills all the klaxosaurs, and then one day, he'll become an adult. He begins to ask if she can be his family when he lives in the city, but stops and instead asks for her to be his friend. She finds this funny and says that's obviously out of the question but is cut off before she can explain.
The woman explains to a man that she treated and fed him. He hands her a heart. A man tells him not to waste their time and infected children shouldn't enter. The other man tells him to knock it off, since they're victims too, calling them pitiful.
Ichigo happily announces that they found Zorome and everyone sighs in relief. Miku calls him a jerk for making them worry. She sentences him to clean the bath for a week.
Zorome rides the elevator with Nana. As he cleans the bath, he hums. Miku enters and yells at him to take it seriously. He asks why she's watching him for. She says that he won't take it seriously unless she does or he might get lost. He laughs and asks why she got such a useless kid. He scrubs her with his brush.
He thinks that they're not pitiful. He wonders why the women felt so familiar. He thought about it a bunch of times after that day, but he never found an answer. Eventually, he stopped thinking about it, and even forgot about her and stopped having that dream.
=== Episode 11: Partner Shuffle ===
When Mitsuru suddenly wakes up, Zorome notes that it's unusual for him to sleep in and Futoshi asks if he was having a good dream, as his face is all red. They head off for breakfast as he rubs his forehead. He narrates that he chose to not expect anything from anyone, preventing his hopes from being betrayed. He slips out of bed and leaves the room.
Ichigo reports that they killed 25 conrad-class klaxosaurs. Nana thanks her and says that the S-Planning in their area is proceeding smoothly, thanks to their efforts. Hachi tells codes 326 and 196 that they need to improve their kill count, and that their parasite score is dropping as well. Hachi dismisses the group, leaving him and Nana alone.
As the unit stands on guard, Zorome asks what "S-Planning" is. Hiro replies that it seems like they're digging for something, and Zero Two says that it's probably nothing good and she can smell klaxosaurs.
Futoshi tells Kokoro that they've grown stronger, as they're on a special mission. Kokoro says that it's thanks to him carrying her through. Futoshi says that she's his responsibility and she giggles and thanks him. Blushing and nervous, he asks thar she promise to be his partner forever. She again smiles and agrees. Futoshi is happy and promises to always protect her. Miku suddenly interrupts and says he's gross. Zorome agrees and says to cut off his comm. Kokoro giggles, but Futoshi reprimands them for listening.
An alarm suddenly sounds and Ichigo announces that seven conrad-class klaxosaurs are approaching. Goro wonders if they have a nest nearby. Ichigo tells them to get ready. Chlorophytum suddenly falls to its knees. Ikuno turns to see what's wrong, and finds Mitsuru sweating and panting.
Goro notes that he had always been frail, and Ichigo adds that he was the only one who received the injection and came back. Miku is confused, so Ikuno says that it was the Elixir Injection, a highly concentrated drug that induced yellow blood cell production and greatly increases parasite aptitude. Miku asks if he had always acted that way. Goro says no, he used to follow Hiro around. Futoshi says that that's shocking and Zorome asks how they ended up butting heads. Goro says he doesn't know, but it started not long before he took the injection. He says that Hiro changed a little back then, too. Kokoro says that the injection has only a survival rate of 15% and didn't know he had such a risky procedure.
The next morning, Nana notes that he seems to be out of the woods for now. He asks to pilot a FRANXX. She is reluctant and thinks it over. When they test, his capacity is low and Hachi notes that he might become a pruning target. Nana thinks of what they should do.
She suggests that they try a "partner shuffle." She tells them that it's simply an option available to them. The children discuss their thoughts, and Futoshi says that they don't need to, since he promised to protect her forever. He asks if she agrees and she reluctantly agrees. Hiro asks Zero Two if something is bothering her and asks if she remembers when he asked her to speak her mind with him because he wanted to get to know her better. As he talks, she covers his mouth and says they can understand each other just fine by piloting Strelizia together.
Mitsuru watches Hiro from far away and Ikuno tells him to stop, since he knows what caused the mess. He asks what she's talking about. She tells him to drop the act and that it takes courage to face up to others and himself. He asks what her point is, and she says that he wants to be acknowledged, not by Papa or the adults. He suddenly shouts for her to shut up. Everyone turns to look at him, causing him to look ashamed. Ikuno smirks and says that it suits him better than acting cool and aloof. She says she's not like him.
Nana asks if there is anyone who wants to try piloting with a different partner. Ikuno asks to try a pistil-pistil connection as a backup plan when they've lost a stamen. She asks Ichigo to help. Ichigo is surprised by reluctantly agrees. Nana agrees to let them try and asks if there's anyone else. Kokoro shyly puts up her hand and asks to try with Mitsuru. This surprises everyone, and Futoshi is hurt. She apologizes, but he begins to cry.
Futoshi cries into his pillow as the other boys are at his side. He asks if he did something wrong. Zorome suggests that maybe he annoyed her and that he should lose weight. Goro wonders why she would and Hiro replies that she must have felt she had to do something for Mitsuru. Zorome smiles and says especially since he's so miserable. Futoshi leaps out of bed and begins shaking him, saying clearly he's the most miserable. Goro tells him to calm down, as Mitsuru suddenly returns. They all turn to look at him. He begins to leave, but Futoshi angrily asks if he thinks he's pathetic. Mitsuru asks what it matters who their partners are. Futoshi easily throws the others off of him and says he has no idea how he feels. He tries to punch him, but misses and falls on his face. Mitsuru adjusts his tie and says he's annoying. Hiro tells him to try and understand Futoshi's feelings. Mitsuru clenches his fist and asks what right he has to say that. Hiro doesn't seem to understand and Mitsuru walks away. On the floor, Futoshi says that, when he thinks of Kokoro, his chest feels tight. Now, he says that the tightness hurts now and wonders why. Hiro smiles at him and says he understands.
A Gutenberg-class klaxosaur approaches and Hachi commands to set up a defensive line 500 meters from the S-Planning and neutralize the target. He says that Genista and Chlorophytum will act as rear support. As Kokoro and Mitsuru go to their FRANXX, Futoshi stops him and tells him to protect Kokoro. Mitsuru scoffs and says not to be ridiculous. Kokoro stops him and says she'll be fine. Futoshi tells her to be careful and says he'll do his best with Ikuno. Kokoro smiles and nods. Futoshi begins crying and rushes into the cockpit, causing Ikuno to sigh.
Zero Two suddenly attacks, and Hiro says that its core is too deep. She rushes in again and is trapped, forcing Miku and Ichigo to save her. She tells Ichigo to mind her own business and charges at it again. The pieces cut off turn into the Conrad-class klaxosaurs they'd been fighting. Before she can attack again, Hiro stops her and she tells him not to get in her way. He asks Ichigo what they should do. Kokoro says they need to shoot at it. Futoshi cries as they talk.
Three get past and Futoshi goes after it. He tells Ikuno that she's too tense, but they manage to kill it. Mitsuru struggles as well, and Kokoro says that there's no need to rush. Strelizia kills it for them and Hiro asks if they're okay. Kokoro thanks him, and he tells Mitsuru to hand in there before rushing back. Mitsuru becomes annoyed and charges blindly at the klaxosaur, causing them to smash into it. An operator announces that Genista's positive pulse is dropping below minimum. Though they are about to be squished, Chlorophytum protects them. Ikuno asks if they're okay. Kokoro thanks both of them. Miku and Ichigo cuts its back legs, but it begins stretching in place towards the S-Planning. Ichigo says she and Miky will stop it. Miku tells Chlorophytum to take care of Genista. Futoshi says that he'll protect her as they shoot into its foot.
Genista reconnects and they all work together to kill it. Afterwards, Futoshi asks why he was so reckless, and Kokoro is about to stop him but Mitsuru stops her. He punches him in the face and Kokoro rushes to care for him. He asks why he didn't dodge it. Mitsuru asks if he realizes how unreasonable he's being. Futoshi shouts at him before Mitsuru slowly says that he promises to protect her. Futoshi falls to his knees and says that he loved her. Hiro sadly looks on from his FRANXX and Zero Two embraces him from behind.
=== Episode 12: The Garden Where It All Began ===
The episode starts with the members of Squad 13 looking out of a large window within a vehicle, seeing the Garden as they approach it. Zero Two is elsewhere within the vehicle, looking for picture books but to no avail. Squad 13 has been sent back to The Garden to undergo some tests, the place where they were raised. They are greeted by the Nines, Zero Two's former squad, and their leader Nine Alpha who wonders what Zero Two, formerly coded Nine Iota, saw in them. Miku comments how hot he is, much to Zorome’s dismay.
Disobeying orders, Hiro, with the other members of Squad 13 visit the old facilities where they were raised in, hoping to meet Naomi again. Naomi is nowhere to be seen and the adults refuse to tell them where she is. They also discover that the children from Garden are being developed into Parasites at a much earlier age, in response to the increased number of Klaxosaur attacks. When a group of Klaxosaurs attack the Garden, Squad 13 is dispatched, and Hiro notes that Zero Twos canines and horns have grown longer. During the battle, a hysteric Zero Two ignores direct orders and attacks alone, claiming that she must kill more Klaxosaurs in order to become truly human.
After the battle, Hiro asks the meaning of her words, but she refuses to answer. Meanwhile, Ichigo eavesdrops on a conversation between Nana and Hachi in which they affirm with each other that the Saurification process in Zero Two and Hiro is intensifying, much to her horror. When the second wave of the Klaxosaurs attack, Squad 13 sorties again and once more Zero Two turns rogue. Hiro is attacked by Zero Two whilst trying to stop her, and he receives visions of a past long forgotten.
=== Episode 13: The Beast and the Prince ===
Nana warns that Hiro's and Zero Two's consciousnesses will connect through Strelizia and merge.
In present time, Delphinium's arm is ripped off and thrown along with Strelizia. Ichigo yells for Hiro to get away from Zero Two or he'd lose his humanity. Hiro, crying, says that she was the girl with the picture book. She looks back at him with tears in her eyes.
=== Episode 14: Punishment and Confession ===
Zero Two and Hiro realize they knew each other as children. Zero Two catches Hiro before he collapses and asks if he's her darling from her childhood and is horrified thinking of what she had done. Ichigo suddenly interrupts and throws her off of him and into Goro. He asks if she's alright as Ichigo tries to revive Hiro. The other FRANXX wait. When they return to the docking facility, Hiro is taken for treatment. Zero Two realizes what Hiro meant when he said he wanted to understand her better.
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.
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. Zero Two breaks out of her room as Ichigo returns. She roughly throws Goro against a window. Ichigo yells at Zero Two but she said they (Squad 13, Hiro excluded) were all wrong and almost broke into tears.
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 (Hiro's treatment room). 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. 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. Ichigo grabs him and kisses him so he won't leave. 9'α greets Zero Two and shows all the stamen she can choose from. Ichigo tells Hiro that she doesn't regret their kiss and that she wants to be with him forever, which Goro overhears. She says that she's always loved him as Zero Two's ship flies overhead.
=== Episode 15: The Bird that Shares Wings ===
At Cerasus's international briefing room, Hachi explains that their objective is to take control of Gran Crevasse. Hiro is not allowed to participate and Zero Two fights in the front lines in stampede mode. Zorome and the others offer to protect Hiro before they head out for the battle. The squad, along with the 9’s and Squad 26, are outnumbered by surprisingly do well against the klaxosaurs.
A super Lehmann klaxosaur attacks the plantation and the squad rushes to protect it. They struggle to keep up and Zorome tells Miku they can’t give up because they have to defend the city. After noticing Hiro rushing towards Strelizia and Goro getting Ichigo to take Hiro to Zero Two, Zorome and Miku pick him up and tell him not to act cool. After killing, Miku notices a humanoid yellow substance fall out and notes it looks human, much to everyone’s confusion. Like everyone, Zorome is shocked to see the plantations self-detonate at Papa’s orders. Zorome gets emotional as he hears Hiro and Zero Two confess their love to each other, and tells them to cut the comms.
After the klaxosaur is neutralized, the cores are shown to remain but a giant colossal hand appears from inside the crevasse and crushes the cores, along with the plantation. Miraculously, the squad and Mistilteinn survive.
=== Episode 16: Days of Our Lives ===
A month passes since the battle at Gran Crevasse and the parasites have been left alone in their boarding house. The damage to the plantation restricted their access to water and electricity, forcing them to rely on their rations to eat and they develop a daily schedule for chores. Zorome looks out the window with binoculars and sees a cargo ship, thinking it is Papa but he is disappointed when he realizes it isn’t.
The Squad prepares breakfast and Zorome complains that they have to eat the same things. Ichigo says he doesn’t have to eat it if he doesn’t want to but he takes his tray back from her. After praying to Papa, Hiro notices Futoshi isn’t eating and he says he is on a diet. Zorome spits his drink out and says dieting doesn’t suit him and encourages him to eat but he declines.
They discuss five sources where they can gather water but two are usable for filtering. They realize how easy it was when their caretakers provided necessities for them. Zero Two suggests they cook their own food and the others agree. Zorome has reservations and doesn’t help out as everyone makes preparations for dinner. He teases Futoshi as he prepares a fire and it blazes from the wind. He watches Zero Two teach everyone how to reel in and catch fish.
When dinner is ready, Ichigo is about to pray but Zorome tells her not to because they shouldn’t have to pray to Papa when they did the work themselves. He enjoys eating the cooked fish as everyone compliments each other for their work. He notices Futoshi is not eating again. Futoshi tries to eat his food but Zorome says he is forcing himself to eat and to stop hiding it.
After dinner, they discuss the possibility they were casted aside and find it scary of not knowing the future but resolve to work hard to survive.
=== Episode 17: Eden ===
The 9’s unexpectedly show up at Mistilteinn, to the squad’s dismay. Alpha says they were sent by Papa, and Goro asks if they weren’t cast aside. Alpha says no and Papa has been worried as it wasn’t what he wanted. Zorome and Miku are greatly relieved. During breakfast, Zorome tried getting Beta to eat as a thank you but he politely declines.
Zorome later goes looking for Mitsuru and finds him and Kokoro in a compromising situation, as Kokoro is in the process of initiating sex with him by unzipping his shirt. Zorome freaks out and asks if they were trying to stick their bodies together and if they are imitating Hiro and Zero Two. Mitsuru asks if he needs anything and Zorome says he is on water duty and tries asking them what they were doing again. Mitsuru tells him to get the water and Zorome leaves irritated over the matter.
He then tells the others what he saw and asks if it is normal for people to stick their bodies together. Alpha comes in with a baby book Kokoro has been hiding and demands an explanation. Kokoro admits she wants to have a baby and they were not creations of Papa as they were led to believe but they are the same as any other animal and are capable of bearing children. Alpha says Papa has banned that and Zorome is surprised before saying it sounds like trouble. Kokoro says that is how species have continued for years and she wants to leave a mark for the future before she dies.
Afterwards, everyone discusses Kokoro’s words. Ichigo wonders if they can make babies. Zorome says how are they supposed to know because they were never taught about it. Goro wonders how they were born if Papa didn’t create them. Zorome again says how are they supposed to know. Zero Two says humans are amazing at being able to leave a mark.
=== Episode 18: When the Sakura Blooms ===
Hiro gathers everyone together to announce he wants to hold a wedding and explains it is a ceremony in which two people make a vow to be together forever in sickness and health. Miku asks who will be getting married and Hiro says Kokoro and Mitsuru, who have decided to get married before they leave for the Bird Nest. Everyone, including Zorome, voice their full support. Zorome plays ball while Hiro and Futoshi gather chairs for the ceremony and encourages them to join him. Miku then scolds them for slacking. Everyone later paints the house and poses for a group picture. Zorome writes “Zorome enters the fray” after painting the house.
On the day of the wedding, Zorome sits in attendance as Kokoro and Mitsuru walk. He comments how cool Mitsuru is trying to look cool and Ichigo comments how beautiful Kokoro is. However, the 9’s and an APE assault unit interrupt the wedding. When Zorome asks what’s going on, he is hit by the butt of a gun. Kokoro and Mitsuru are then taken away and the others reluctantly leave Mistilteinn for the Bird Nest.
A couple of weeks pass and Zorome complains how long it’s been since they were told to wait for their next mission. Ichigo gets a message and they are reunited with Kokoro and Mitsuru. Both have no recollection of the wedding. Zorome tells them about the ceremony and Goro points out the rings but Mitsuru says they were already there before. He and Kokoro believe the other is a new squad member. Zero Two says their memories have been altered.
=== Episode 19: Inhumanity ===
Goro tells everyone that Kokoro and Mitsuru were implanted with fake memories. They wonder if what they did was so bad it warranted such punishment. Zorome says Papa must have had his reason and Miku condemns him, saying she expected more from him and Ikuno reminds him about the hard work they put into the wedding. Zorome says all they’ve ever known is Papa. Hiro announces he plans to confront Papa.
Squad 13 speaks to Papa, who justifies that he simply erased unnecessay emotions and memories for the sake of APE’s objectives. Everyone is angry and Zorome asks Papa when will they become adults. When Papa doesn’t answer, Zorome demands to know what have they been living for and if they only exist just to fight and die. Hiro demands that Papa release them from duty since they no longer see him as their papa and he agrees as long as they win the final battle.
=== Episode 20: A New World ===
Papa orders Squad 13 to go to Gran Crevasse so Strelizia can take control of Star Entity and the others will be backup. They later attend an assembly meeting and are mocked by the 9’s. Zero Two defends her friends because, unlike the 9’s, they look forward to the future.
During the battle, the klaxosaurs suddenly stop fighting against the parasites and look at the sky as an atm of ships appear. Papa reveals they are VIRM and he is the leader, and he has been using humanity as tools for his benefit. The parasites also learn that the FRANXX they pilot are actually klaxosaur remnants dug up and converted into weapons for them to use to fight against the klaxosaurs. Zorome is shocked that they have been kept in the dark about everything.
=== Episode 21: For You, My Love ===
The Squad is confused on who they should be fighting as the klaxosaurs and VIRM start fighting each other. Zorome says they have always been fighting the klaxosaurs. Kokoro doesn’t care because she feels obligated to keep fighting. Mitsuru says he heard the VIRM are invaders and Goro says he heard Star Entity has been programmed as a bomb to destroy the planet. Everyone decides to return to Gran Crevasse to see for themselves.
They arrive and take Zero Two and Dr. Franxx to the entrance after learning Hiro has been forced to link with the klaxosaur princess. The corridor is blocked off, so Ikuno and Futoshi blast through it in full power but Chlorophytum deactivates as Ikuno’s health weakens. Ichigo orders Argentea and Genista to stay with Chlorophytum.
When the battle ends, Zorome and the others are shown to have survived but Zero Two is in a catatonic state.
=== Episode 22: Stargazers ===
All the parasites begin attempting to grow crops to make food to eat. During a meeting, they discuss their low amounts of water and maintenance. They wonder if they cant use magma energy and Zorome says they have no choice.
Zorome works in the fields with the others when a klaxosaur and VIRM soldier crash into the field after killing each other. He is later present in the infirmary with everyone when the new Nana announces Kokoro is pregnant. Kokoro panics over what she should do and Miku asks the boys to leave. Mitsuru asks the boys on what he should do but no one knows.
The next day, they find the crops have died and are surprised when Nana and Hachi show up. Hachi surmises the crops died because years of magma energy drilling deprived the soil of life. Zorome says there is no way because it could only mean but Ikuno finishes that they were rejected by the planet and Ichigo collapses from fatigue.
Goro tells everyone Mistilteinn has fresh soil that can be used for farming and Zorome is elated they can finally grow crops. However, Hiro announces he is going to space to rescue Zero Two, who is mentally connected with Strelizia and fighting the VIRM. Despite being told it is a suicide mission, he refuses to change his mind. Zorome later sits with Futoshi, Miku, and Ikuno outside as they watch a meteor shower and wonder if they will find something they would die for.
The next morning, the squad meets with Hiro and announce they will be going with him. Zorome says they are not just doing this for him but they also want revenge on VIRM.
=== Episode 23: Darling in the Franxx ===
Zorome randomly flies Argentea through space and Miku asks if he’s alright. Everyone agrees they can move more freely in space. Futoshi is impressed with their new weapons and it feels like they’re part of a real team. Zorome says they have always been a real team. Hachi orders the FRANXX to return to the ship as they travel to Mars’ orbit.
There, they see a massive ba the klaxosaurs and VIRM with Strelizia Apus in the center. Hiro and Alpha rush into the battle and the others provide backup. Zorome and Miku take the lead for Hiro to get there more easily. A fleet of VIRM block them from getting closer to Strelizia Apus so Zorome and Miku blast through fleet to help Hiro get trough.
As Hiro tries to reconnect with Zero Two, the battle becomes more intense. Zorome wonders what is taking Hiro so long but Goro assures him that Hiro has always pulled through. After Strelizia evolves into Strelizia True Apus and eliminates the VIRM fleets, two satellites form a warp gate, and Hiro and Zero Two have decided to enter it. Zorome asks why because Hiro got to see her and they should just return to Earth. Hiro and Zero Two explain their decision is to finally end the war and they take a bomb from the ship with them. They then promise their friends that they will come back.
=== Episode 24: Never Let Me Go ===
72 days after the gate passage, Zorome returns to Mistilteinn with Goro, Ichigo, Miku, Futoshi, and Ikuno. Their former home had been destroyed and they begin gathering soil and plants for farming. As Kokoro teaches some of the girls to knit and Mitsuru looks after her, Zorome and Futoshi come rushing in and give her food they say is full of good nutrients. She thanks them and they have to drag a reluctant Mitsuru back to the fields with them.
245 days after the gate passage, Zorome and a few other boys congratulate Mitsuru for becoming a father when Kokoro gives birth to their daughter. He later bids farewell to Goro when he decides to travel the world to gather supplies needed for the parasites to survive. Zorome and Miku are shocked when Goro boldly kisses Ichigo.
783 days after the gate passage, the squad learns Zero Two’s statue can link them to Hiro and Zero Two in space, and they all hold hands to send their prayers to the two. Zorome and Miku say they won’t let them keep outshining them anymore. When Hiro and Zero Two sacrifice themselves, everyone mourns them and Zero Two’s statue breaks and turns into ashes, leaving behind a small plant.
Over the next eight years, the parasites have stopped using magma energy as part of their commitment to the planet and created a self-sufficient lifestyle from scratch.
Eight years after Hiro and Zero Two’s deaths, Zorome as become a teacher and is surprised how many children attend the school entrance ceremony. Two girls tease him for skipping a teacher’s meeting. Zorome says he doesn’t have to attend it and proceeds to tease the girls before Miku scolds him for slacking they get into an argument. The former squad later reunites at a cherry blossom that grew from Zero Two’s ashes and thank her and Hiro, reciting the lessons they learned from the two.
== Relationships ==
=== Miku ===
He and Miku were arranged as partners after being discharged from the Garden. Both have personalities and tempers that mirror each other. They have a strong partnership but tend to go back forth between rivals and friends. They frequently quarrel over just about everything and tend to insult each other. Miku gets agitated with Zorome's immaturity and sarcasm whereas Zorome loathes her temper and teasing of him. In spite of their frequent quarrels, it is hinted they have feelings for each other.
Despite how badly they seem to treat each other, Zorome truly cares about Miku and is willing to do whatever it takes to protect her. When Miku was electrocuted and knocked unconscious during their first mission, Zorome was terrified she was dead but when she woke up, he was so relieved that she was alive that he threw himself in her and hugged her. Zorome later tells the Old Woman that although he can’t stand Miku's temper, he believes he is the only person who can tolerate her. when she also suggests he find another partner, Zorome is surprised by the suggestion and rejects it, showing that he wants to remain partners with her
Zorome tends to act lecherous around Miku, who shows disdain towards him for this. When he accidentally saw her partially naked after her parasite suit melted in front of him, he was shocked and then mesmerized. While she betrayed him firnogling her, he replied seeing her didn’t hurt her, which made her angrier. However, when they reconciled, Zorome apologized but Miku said she didn't mind if he ogled her a bit. Zorome also tends to get jealous at other males when Miku seemingly takes an interest in him, such as showing dismay when she called Alpha "hot".
Although their relationship is left ambiguous when they reach adulthood, they work side by side as teachers for the next generation and continue their quarrelsome antics. To maintain their bond as partners, they both wear a fragment of Argentea in a pendant.
=== Hiro ===
He initially acted hostile towards Hiro, calling him a "wuss" on multiple occasions, either where he is able to hear or directly towards him, this may play towards his attitude of wanting to show that he is better than the Parasites with "double digit" codes, rather than just him. After Hiro saved them from a Klaxosaur, and said that he won't be a burden to Zorome and fight together as a team, Zorome gained respect of Hiro and their relationship improved.
=== Futoshi ===
Zorome seems to like teasing and poking fun at Futoshi a lot. Overall, the two maintain a healthy relationship, often playing in the backyard with each other. Zorome also cares for Futoshi and is visibly upset to see Futoshi not eating in Episode 16.
=== Ichigo ===
Ichigo is Plantation 13's Squad leader. He seems to dislike her for her bossy attitude and likes to think he is better than her.
=== Kokoro ===
Although they haven't interacted much, Zorome has stated in Episode 05 that he finds Kokoro beautiful. He shows concern for her during her pregnancy, as he gives her food for nutrition so she and the baby will be healthy.
== Etymology ==
His name is a reference to his code. The literal meaning of "zorome" is repdigit; a number that consists of the same digit, such as 666. It is also the Number of the Beast, a term in the Book of Revelation.
== Trivia ==
* Out of all the boys of Squad 13, Zorome shows no interest in girls and shrugs off the idea of romance, despite him being lecherous towards the girls.
* Zorome is fond of sports and often plays ball. He even receives one as his annual present from Papa.
* Up until Naomi’s departure, Zorome is the member of the squad with the lowest code number, hinting he was deemed unlikely to succeed and given no special treatment. Despite this, he and Miku prove to be a compatible match and pilot a FRANXX that specializes in speed and close range attacks.
* Zorome’s reason for becoming a teacher was because he was inspired by Hiro making a difference by giving all the parasites names and Zorome wanted to do something for the new generation by giving them an education.
* In one of the MATO comics, it appears that Zorome and Miku's matching necklaces are made out of Argentea, which is to remember their FRANXX and the memories they formed together there by. The Drama CD of vol. 3 confirms this theory.
Category:Darling in the FranXX
Category:Characters
Category:Male Characters
Category:Humans