If any of you are wondering, since Sword Art Online Alicization: War of Underworld Part Two is airing while I'm typing this, the storyline of this fanfic won't spoil anything from Alicization Awakening and beyond for now. (I'm mainly an anime viewer so I don't know much of what happened in the books).

I don't own anything.

Underlined Italics are Hiro's thoughts

Chapter 7 Your Thorn, My Badge Part One

August 24th

Mistilteinn

Before midnight, a titanic metal dome known as Plantation 26 or rather Chrysanthemum, had finally arrived and ceased movement a few miles away from the exterior walls of Cerasus. Various spotlights beamed across the shell of both Plantations as the adults of Plantation 13 and Plantation 26 began processing the magma transfer.

An automated voice echoes out, "Plantation 13 will now carry out the kissing with Plantation 26."

Alarms blared as massive tubes started to extend from each Plantation. From afar, Squad 13 had decided to stay up and voyage past the forest, overlooking the procedure within Mistilteinn's glass dome. Since they were just rookies, none have ever witnessed such an event and most haven't even heard of the term "kissing". Being one of the few who knew another form of kissing, Hiro placed his hand on the glass as he recollected the time he had first encountered Strelizia's pistil.

When we first met, Zero told me,

"A kiss is a very special thing."

An automated voice repeats, "Plantation 13 will now carry out the kissing with Plantation 26."

Do the adults kiss?

If so,

who was it that compared plantations making contact to a kiss?

Once the two tubes made contact, air hissed out as multiple cylinders locked them together.

"Say, what is "kissing," anyway?" Zorome wondered as he curiously pressed his face closer to the glass.

"You were watching all this time without knowing a thing?" Miku questioned, placing her hands on her hips while turning away with a smug look on her face.

"Shut up, dumbass! Do you know all about it?" retorted Zorome.

Since she didn't exactly know either, Miku flinched before stuttering, "I-It's when two plantations are stuck together, right?"

"That's not all." comments Kokoro with a smile.

"It's a transfer of magma fuel reserves from one plantation to another, through that big pipe." informed Ikuno.

Across from her, Mitsuru crossed his arms, adding, "That fuel is essential for both the adults and us to live. FranXX can't be operated without it, either."

"So we can relax now, right?" clarified Zorome.

"Not exactly. This is a large-scale transfer of magma energy. I've heard it'll attract a huge number of klaxosaurs." informed Goro.

"Are you serious?" exclaimed Zorome.

"A huge number, huh?" murmured Futoshi.

"Don't worry," happily reassures Hiro, gaining confused stares from everyone. "If we work together, we'll be fine. We even have Strelizia now."

"Hiro..." mumbled Goro. Behind him, Mitsuru and Ichigo turned away, both opposing the fact.

Ichigo sighs before sadly agreeing, "Yeah. Hiro's right."

After a couple more minutes of spectating, the group decides to head back to the boarding house and back to sleep. For once the Zephilla pair took the lead back down the illuminated path. Despite his current drowsy mood, Kirito appeared to be troubled by Plantation 26's arrival, specifically of the squad.

Perplexed by his expression, Asuna asks, "What's wrong?"

"Just follow the code." silently recites Kirito. Kikuoka's warning before they've entered the system recently started to unsettle him.

"What?" questioned Asuna. Slowly the pair sped up their pace, gradually distancing themselves from their squad.

"Kikuoka told me something before we dived in."

"Which is?"

The memory played in his thoughts as he echoes Kikuoka's advice, "Don't use your names at all. Try to be like everyone else, don't stand out, just follow the code."

"Ok...but why bring this up now?"

Kirito sighs, "I think we were lucky to be placed in this squad." He turned to Asuna, who just tilts her head, not understanding his point. "I mean, how come we haven't been reprimanded yet by the adults?" He tucks his hands in pockets, "Plus it felt off whenever someone like those guards and Hachi referred us by our code numbers instead."

"Oh yeah, Hiro just gave them names." Few steps later, they reached the front porch.

Since the rest of the squad was still a bit behind, Kirito only opened the door for himself and Asuna, "But he was the first to start this meaning this squad is special."

Asuna finished his sentence, "Which probably means that Squad 26 aren't the same." Kirito silently nods in response. Asuna cups her chin as the door swung shut behind her, "So we're assuming they don't have as much freedom like us, what are you suggesting we do about it?"

"While Squad 26 is around, we'll act like them. Be quieter and reserved like Mitsuru." Slowly they walked upstairs, pausing before they part.

"Good night, Asuna." The door softly opens but neither of them has realized their squad's presence.

"Night, Kirito~ku-" She was cut off from a sudden peck on the lips by Kirito. He gave her a weary grin before turning away to stretch his arms, yawning as he staggers up the stairs towards the stamen wing. Asuna hesitates before walking up the stairs in the opposite direction. She glanced at the door, finally noticing that almost the entire squad stood frozen in place at the door, all looking baffled with their confused stares. Assuming they might have witnessed their kiss, immediately her eyes widen as she rushed down the hall into her shared room.

"I'm not the only one who saw that, right?" Futoshi muttered, turning to the Argentea pair but for once, both were too bewildered to say anything.

While Mitsuru paid no attention, Goro, Kokoro, and Ikuno were also speechless from their brief gesture. It was the first time any of them had seen someone else kiss but since Hiro had already experienced a kiss himself, he was mostly unfazed. He suddenly jolts, remembering that Zero Two wasn't the only person he had kissed. He turns around to face Ichigo who had finally set foot inside the building. Judging by her expression, it appears she hasn't noticed Kirito and Asuna, for now at least. The blue-haired leader looks up at her squad with a concerned expression.

She walked up beside Goro, wondering, "What's going on?"

Before he could utter a word, Zorome finally blurts, "Eh?! W-Why were they sticking their mouths together?!"

Ichigo paused and tried to process his statement. "W-Wait, what?" A pink tinge appeared on her cheeks as she shot a questionable look at Hiro. Before their eyes met, she averts her stare and walks through the group, quickly marching up the stairs to the pistil wing.

"Uh, should we be concerned?" asked Miku as their leader left the room.

Not wanting to get involved, Hiro advised, "For now, let's pretend that never happened and get some sleep." Normally someone would further press on with the matter but due to the restrictions of today's special schedule, they had no choice but to drop it for now. Zorome would usually be that someone but since he was the most enthusiastic about the ceremony, he refrains and follows the boys to their side.

Boarding House

It was almost 7 am, breakfast was prepared and everyone was still awaiting the Zephilla pair. Some were ready to bombard them with questions last night but unfortunately, Kirito already collapsed in his bed and as for Asuna, the last time anyone has seen her was when she retreated to the pistil wing. Ichigo already inspected their room where she found cabinets open and Asuna's bedsheets untampered. Apparently, after grabbing her nightwear, the pistil in question preferred to sneak down and sleep in the restricted room.

Even now in the mess hall, there was a mix of suspicion and anticipation. For the boys, when Goro checked this morning, he expected to see his other black-haired comrade but instead, the top bunk was already fixed. Goro glanced with concern at his partner before checking his page, seeing that it was already 7. He shoves it back in his pocket and rose from his seat but the moment he stood up, his page vibrated as a message popped up from Asuna.

It said 'Don't worry, just eat without us. We'll see you guys later at the Admin Building.' Goro frowns and closed his page as he slumps back in his seat.

He looks over to their blue-haired leader, informing, "Ichigo, lead the prayer. They're not coming." Ichigo sighs and clasps her hands, everyone does the same as she starts.

While their squad dined, the Zephilla pair were preparing to depart. Both have already retrieved their formal uniforms and thanks to Asuna, they can enjoy their breakfast in their usual picnic spot. Once Kirito finished cleaning the kitchen, he turned off the lights and grabbed the picnic basket before walking out to the hallway. Asuna stood against the wall, holding her page along with a folded blanket that contained their caps and cloaks.

"Let's go, Asuna."

She nods and reactivates the camera with her page before walking down the hall with Kirito to the courtyard. For once, they simply ignored the camera in the corner and casually entered the vivid forest, hand in hand once again. They voyaged through the forest in silence, hoping to temporarily ease their mood before today's hectic events. Shortly they arrived near the lake and fortunately this time, there was no pistil lingering in the water. Asuna unfolds the blanket, allowing the two to sit down and unpack their breakfast. Asuna sets their clothing aside before handing Kirito a pair of utensils and one of her bentos. Due to the limited time they had, she stuck with simple dishes of two chicken-filled onigiris, a few rolled omelets, a small salad, and some berries. Kirito drools at the sight, especially since he's been up since 5 am doing surveillance outside, marking down the caretakers' breakfast schedule.

"I hope this makes up for earlier." apologized Asuna as she pulled out two glasses, filling them up with some milk from a thermos she packed.

Kirito nods, "Of course. Just call if I need to do this again."

"Probably tomorrow when they're prepping dinner." Asuna giggles, "Maybe, later on, I could make your favorite." He then fantasizes about the thought of having teriyaki chicken burgers again.

Together they clasp their hands, "Thank you for the food."

After a few bites of her onigiri, Asuna realized, "Wait, when should start calling each other by our codes?"

"Technically, we only need to around Squad 26, but," He smirks, "how about we start when we get to the Admin building?"

She gulps down one of her omelets, "So considering last night, do you think it's a good idea to mess with our squad now?"

He shrugs, "I don't think they'll mind us calling them by their code numbers, and besides, sooner or later everyone will figure out what kissing actually is."

After some consideration, Asuna sighs in agreement, "As long as I'm not the one explaining, then why not..." She shoots a playful grin at him, "Code 096."

Two hours later

Admin Building

About 15 minutes ago after his short nap, the black-haired stamen had witnessed Hachi and Nana exit the building. They crossed the bridge and headed down the trail towards the boarding house to retrieve their squad. Somehow they haven't noticed his presence amidst the various bushes. As they faded from his view, Kirito stood up to lean against a tree, with Asuna's cloak and their hats in one hand and his page in the other. Before he checks his page, the bushes rustle to reveal Asuna who had finally returned from the boarding house.

"Did anyone see you?" asked Kirito.

She pants while grabbing her formal wear from him, "Nope," To avoid any encounter with their squad, she simply looped around to the restricted room window and dumped the basket inside before scurrying off.

Once she finished, he asks "Wanna wait inside for them?"

"Sure."

A few minutes later, Hachi and Nana led Squad 13 across the bridge, all wearing the formal attire over their uniforms.

After scanning the area, Kokoro realized, "Where's Kirito and Asuna? Weren't they supposed to be here?"

"Do you think they'll skip the ceremony?" wondered Miku.

Zorome looks up and scoffs, "Sucks for them. They'll miss seeing Plantation 26's adults." As they entered the front door, they were welcomed by the Zephila pair who lounged in the hall near the elevator, oddly appearing more professional than them.

Nana walked up to a wall panel and accessed the elevator, "Let's go, everyone."

Once Squad 13 shuffled inside with Hachi and Nana trailing behind, the doors slid shut and they began to descend. Most of the squad started to fidget with anticipation while some were ready to start an interrogation, specifically their blue-haired leader.

Ichigo approached the couple, calmly wondering, "Didn't see you two this morning. Where have you been?"

Knowing that she's unaware of the kitchen, Asuna plainly responds, "In the forest."

"Ok..." Ichigo looks back and forth between the two, "About last night, what wer-"

Kirito monotonously interjects, "It was late, I don't know what I was doing."

"But-"

He hovered his finger over Ichigo's lips, "We'll answer any question you have after the ceremony, ok Code 015?" She flinched from the unexpected use of her codename.

Miku placed her hands on her hips, clarifying, "So we can't question why you stuck yo-"

"You can but later Code 390," stated Asuna, gaining a few perplexed stares.

"Settle down." Nana clapped her hands, causing everyone to redirect their attention to the adults. "If you don't remember the procedure today them listen up."

Hachi reminds, "When the mayor returns to Plantation 13, that's the cue for both squads will walk down to the center and meet. Shortly, Squad 13 will walk down to Chrysanthemum while hearing a speech from the mayor of Plantation 26. Later return to the center and formally present yourselves to Squad 26."

"A couple of handshakes later, our mayor will give the closing speech and the ceremony is officially over," concluded Nana.

After a few silent nods, everyone, except Mitsuru and the Zephilla pair, continued their excited chatter until the elevator reached its designated level. The door slid open to reveal pairs of guards, all armed and ready to escort the parasites to the venue.

Outside between the two Plantations

A grand ceremony was conducted with the utmost solemnity.

The event was prepared to temporarily take place beside the magma tubes. Both domes had their metal plating split apart to expose their exterior amphitheater, packed with adult spectators from their respective Inner cities. On each side, banners were displayed while multi-colored confetti was dispersed by the wind. The flagbearers lined up along the red carpet as the two mayors met and shook hands. After they returned to their respective plantations, Squad 13 and Squad 26 walked down the red carpet, halting in the middle just a few meters apart.

The children of Plantation 26's FranXX squad were also in attendance,

Both squads were lined up in one row beside their partner however since Zero Two wasn't present, Hiro was the odd stamen out and had to stand slightly behind the Zephilla couple. For Squad 13, the Genista and Argentea pair, along with Ikuno, marveled at the event with enthusiasm or curiosity as the rest observed in a composed manner.

and they seemed a lot more calm and composed than us.

Across them, Squad 26 differed in multiple ways, such as age, experience, and notably by their appearance. Although they all wore the same uniform, their varied shades of brown hair and brown eyes made them even more identical.

The mayor of Plantation 26 announced, "Boys and girls! The dreadful klaxosaurs are sure to attack the magma reserves in great numbers." As he spoke, flagbearers walked onto the carpet and lowered their large, white flags with the parasites' symbol over the squads. "The fate of these two plantations rest squarely on your shoulders, parasites." The squads crossed paths and headed over to each other's plantation to wave at the crowd. "You are strong! We believe that you will surely bring us victory!"

Being treated like VIPs gave our morale a big boost.

But at the same time,

Hiro falters while the wind ruffles his hair. He then looked up at the sky as the clouds slowly blocked the sun.

we clearly sensed the coming of a fiercer battle than we had ever experienced before.

The flagbearers scattered as parasites of both Plantations returned to the center for a formal introduction. Each FranXX pair only shook hands with the pair across from them. Apparently from being opposite from the Delphinium duo, Hiro, Kirito and Asuna were the first to meet Squad 26's leader pair. First, they introduced themselves by their gender.

Kirito extended his hand gave him a friendly smile, "Hey, I'm Code 096."

Hiro followed him, "I'm Code 016."

He shook Kirito's hand, responding with the same welcoming expression, "I'm Squad 26's leader, Code 090." He then shook Hiro's hand, "Great to finally meet you, Code 016."

Asuna did the same with his partner, "I'm Code 046. Nice to meet you."

"Code 883. Likewise." Her response was more monotone like an actual NPC.

Then they switched, "Hi, I'm Code 046."

Unexpectedly, Code 090 flinches, "Code 046?" As she silently nods, he briefly examines her before shaking her hand with a warm smile, "I'm Code 090. Good to see you again."

Perplexed by his words, she attempts to pop out a question until suddenly, Kirito gently pulled her back into line. After their brief meeting, the leader units had to greet each other. Once Goro and Ichigo stepped forward, for a moment, Asuna had noticed Code 090 glancing at her with a confused gaze. Before their eyes met, he averts his attention to their blue-haired leader. Then as planned, the mayor of Plantation 13 gave a closing speech and the friendship ceremony has concluded. Adults began to disperse and the parasites regrouped with Hachi and Nana.

'Again?' thought Asuna. Beside her, Kirito realized she was zoning out and started nudging her. His effort was useless so he switched to poking her cheek, finally getting her attention. Suddenly she blurts to Nana, "Are we allowed to explore Plantation 26?"

Nana informs, "While they're here, you're permitted to cross Plantations anytime from 9 am to 7 pm."

"Then let's go right now!" bubbled Zorome. With that in mind, Futoshi followed and the two started jogging away from the group.

Ichigo sighs at her teammates' antics before shouting, "You two won't have much time to explore! You might miss lunch!"

Beside her, Goro adds, "And you still need to change!"

Immediately the two paused in their tracks, nervously looking at each other as they began pondering their choices. Knowing exactly what they're planning to do, Kirito hands Asuna his hat and rushed towards the eager stamens, startling both of them with his swift arrival.

Kirito threw his arms over their shoulders, "If you agree to go after lunch, I might try to persuade Nana and have us eat dinner with them."

As he switched between the two, they instantly beamed once more, "Really?!"

The black-haired stamen grins, "Come' on, let's hurry and go so we can come back."

Simultaneously Zorome and Futoshi pumped their fists in the air, "Yeah!" Together, the trio marched back to the rest of their squad, allowing everyone to finally travel to the elevator.

After reclaiming his hat, Kirito did as promised and sped up to their red-haired caretaker, politely wondering, "May I request something?"

"Of course, what is it?"

"Would it be possible for all of us to have dinner with Squad 26?" Nana glanced at him, inquiring the reason behind his unusual request. Kirito continues, "I thought it would be best to further acquaint ourselves. Learning more about each other could improve our cooperation in the upcoming battle."

"Hmm," Nana briefly turned to Hachi who just silently nods in response. She returned to Kirito, "Ok, your suggestion will be under consideration."

Immediately Hachi used his tablet and began contacting the adults of Plantation. Meanwhile, from behind, Asuna had gradually faltered from the group, causing her to barely miss the elevator as a result. Fortunately, since the ceremony was still fresh in everyone's mind, practically no one had seen her fumble.

Being the only one to notice his girlfriend's odd behavior, Kirito shuffles near her and whispers, "Hey, what's wrong?"

Asuna shakes her head, reassuring him, "Oh it's nothing much. Just something that Code 090 said."

"Hm? What did he say?"

"Earlier, the way he spoke sounded like he knew me or we've already met."

"He probably heard your Code number before or thought you were someone else." surmised Kirito.

"Maybe but," She raised her hand up to her forehead, speculating, "I don't know...It feels like I knew him."

August 25th

In the stamen wing, out of all the double-digits in the shared room, Goro was the first to wake up. While Kirito and Hiro snoozed, he softly rolled out of the sheets, removing his nightwear before grabbing his newly washed uniform from the wall compartment.

"Hey, you two. Wake up." Goro yawns as he zips up his uniform.

He gently tugged Kirito's leg, causing him to groan, "Give me a minute..."

Goro shrugs then checks on his childhood friend who was still wrapped up in his blanket as he faced the wall. He chuckles, "It's morning. Rise and shine." He reached out to touch Hiro's face but retracted upon contact, for his skin was oddly warmer than normal. While Hiro slowly rolled out the bottom bunk, Goro took a moment to examine his friend's pasty appearance. With his attention solely on Hiro, he hadn't noticed something kicking at this arm.

"Can I get down now?" Kirito yawns while dangling his legs over the ladder, subconsciously using his foot to nudge Goro's arm off the ladder.

Quickly Goro snapped out of his daze and moved away, plopping down on his bed as the two black-haired stamens got dressed.

Once they were done, the trio headed down the hall to the bathroom, each claiming a sink with a face towel. Goro removed his glasses, washing his face before brushing his teeth.

He glanced at Hiro, finally asking, "Are you okay? Your body was burning up like crazy."

Hiro turns off the faucet, reassuring, "I'm perfectly fine. If anything, I feel really light on my feet."

Goro frowns, "You're not lying, are you?"

"Of course not. I actually want to go train right now." His response made the blonde pause.

Despite doubting his statement, Goro simply murmured, "Okay, then."

Since there was still some time before breakfast, they walked over to the living room, finding the rest of their squad lounging inside.

"Yesterday's ceremony was something else, huh?" Kokoro comments with a smile as the trio claimed one of the circular couches. "I was so excited, I had trouble getting to sleep last night."

"Plantation 26's squad leader seemed like a nice guy." hummed Miku. A huge grin appeared on her face as she remembers their interaction from last night.

"Is he the kind of guy you'd like to ride with?" wondered Kokoro.

"Better him than the boys we're stuck with." Miku looked over to Ikuno, asking, "Don't you agree?"

The purple pistil shrugs, "No. I don't really care."

Miku crossed her arms and rolls her eyes, "Wow, what a wet blanket." She redirects to her left towards Zephilla's pistil, "What about you, Asuna?"

Asuna jolts with confusion, "Huh?"

"The twin-tailed pistil gasps, "What? Don't tell me you haven't noticed their leader sneak a peek at you?"

"He has?" wondered Asuna, trying to recall if she had seen him.

Miku sighs, "Must be nice." She glanced at Asuna's partner, teasing, "Looks like Zephilla has some stamen competition. Better do something soon, Kirito."

Kirito leans back against the cushion and shrugs, "Why bother? It's just piloting." He then motions to girlfriend, "And I don't think Asuna would pilot with someone she barely knows." He briefly cringes at the thought of Asuna and Code 090 together in the piloting position. Across from him, Zorome and Futoshi had maintained their joyous mood, both thinking about the ceremony.

Zorome crosses his arms behind his head, stating, "It gives you a real lift when the adults have high hopes for you, huh?"

Futoshi happily sighs, "Yeah. It shows they really need us." Suddenly Zorome sprung up onto his feet, raising his right-hand high as he recites the words of Plantation 26's mayor.

"Boys and girls! You are strong! We believe that you will surely bring us victory!" Some of the squad chuckles at his word by word outburst. "And I'll be the one who leads us to that victory!"

"You mean Hiro will," added Ichigo, making him the center of attention again.

"Oh, yeah. You really shone in the previous battle." compliments Kokoro.

"But how are you feeling? All good?" asked Futoshi.

Without hesitation, Hiro responds, "Well, yeah. Everything's fine."

"Awesome!" comments Futoshi.

Miku mentions, "Looks like the "three times and you die" rumor was all nonsense, then."

"That, or he's extremely compatible with her." noted Ikuno.

"Thanks. But we wouldn't have won without you guys." Hiro justifies as his blood started pumping again. "I had a hard time keeping up with everything happening, but it felt just right. If I can keep riding, I hope you'll let me fight with you as part of the team."

"Heh. Don't get cocky, man." Zorome muttered as he crossed his arms, "All you did was get through that one time."

"Do you really have to be such a spoilsport?" asked Goro.

Hiro remained unfazed by his judgment. "Zorome..."

"Huh?"

"I'll do my best not to be a burden." resumed Hiro, walking up to Zorome with his hand out. "Let's keep fighting together."

Zorome's eyes widen, surprised by the red stamen's words. "O-Okay..." Immediately he felt superior again, reverting back to his prideful nature as he gladly shook Hiro's hand. "Jeez, fine. Keep it up, all right?"

"Big words, little man." giggled Miku, provoking her partner again.

"Oh, shut up! I just, uh..." He was at a loss for words and began mumbling, "You know, as the team's ace pilot, I'm trying to..."

Miku shrugs and cuts off his attempts to recover, "Okay, okay." As their discussions continued, Kokoro diverts her attention to a certain olive-haired stamen who appeared troubled as he exits the room.

Soon everyone followed the purple stamen to the main entrance, heading downstairs towards the mess hall.

While Ichigo and Hiro walked down the stairs, Ichigo had noticed something about the black-haired stamen, "Hang on, Hiro." He paused near the grandfather clock, allowing Ichigo to reach the collar of his uniform. Upon contact, he cautiously backs away from her, subconsciously placing his hand on his nape. Ichigo lowered her hands, quietly noting, "Your collar was bent out of shape. When will you learn to take better care of these things?" Hiro eased up as she continued walking down the stairs. "By the way, I was amazed you realized what I was going for in the last battle."

Hiro started following her down, "Well, I have known you forever."

She slowed her pace, looking over at him with a smile, "I knew you'd work something out."

Futoshi marched blindly towards the stamen table, happily chanting, "Breakfast, breakfast..." Behind him, Kirito chuckles as he walks through the door, and for some reason, everyone fell silent.

To him, it seemed like they were looking at directly him until someone began tugging his right arm, "Morning, Da-" From the voice, it sounded like Asuna which confused him since she was standing soundlessly next to Miku. Kirito paused to face the speaker and the first thing he saw was pink hair over her teal eyes.

Immediately, Zero Two released him and backed away, muttering, "Oh, you're just my darling's double."

"Yeah, totally not Kirito. Merely Hiro's twin." Kirito jokes before smirking, "Morning, Zero Two. It's nice to see you, too." When he finished, she distances herself even further, glaring at him before turning her head away to look out the window. Amused by the situation, Kirito rolls his eyes and started approaching her. Unexpectedly, after hearing a faint chuckle from behind, Zero Two jolts and redirects her attention to the mess hall door.

Kirito regarded her stare and turned to see the two teen digit parasites enter the room, "Anyway, back then..."

A feminine voice interrupted Ichigo, "Morning, darling!" Zero Two eagerly walked up to her actual darling, shoving Kirito out of the way in the process, and luckily he only stumbled against a chair.

When the teen numbered codes recognized Zero Two's presence, the brief tension between them that had just disappeared instantly resurfaced. "M-Morning." stuttered Hiro. Ichigo silently observes the pair, unmistakably bothered by the short distance between him and pink-haired pistil.

"This way." Zero Two clutched his wrist and guided him to the stamen's table.

She turns away as Hiro utters, "Uh, wait..." Zero Two carelessly sat down, claiming a seat that uneased Genista's and Argentea's stamen.

"You're a girl! Why're you coming to sit here?" chided Zorome, watching the two with disgust. Goro stared curiously while, as always, Mitsuru ignored the scene.

"And that's my seat..." mumbled Futoshi.

"Y-Yeah! Get back to your table!" demanded Zorome.

"Pipe down," said Ichigo, gaining everyone's attention. "Take your seats already. It's time to pray."

Futoshi recites, "But...my seat..."

"Want to sit over here, then?" suggests Kokoro, making Miku and Ikuno groan.

He lights up, "Can I really?"

"Yeah, you can sit beside me," smiled Asuna, patting the chair next to her.

"Thanks!" grinned Futoshi.

Zorome exclaims with disapproval but unfortunately, he was powerless to interfere. For now, he settled down in his seat between Goro and Kirito, allowing Ichigo to begin. While everyone closed their eyes and clasped their hands together, Zero Two quickly seized the honey pitcher and started pouring an unreasonable amount of golden honey onto her meal.

"May Papa never starve. May Papa never thirst. May Papa's heart be filled with peace for eternity. Let's eat."

Everyone echoes, "Let's eat."

As everyone dug into their food, Zero Two held her honey covered bread slice, happily offering it to Hiro, "Here, darling. Say 'Ahh'." He hesitates before nodding and leaned in for a bite, obtaining Goro and Zorome's attention. After he gulps, she asks, "Like it?"

"Y-Yeah, it's good."

"You can eat my share," stated Zero Two.

Across the table, Zorome comments with a fork in his mouth, "Lucky him. I wanna try something like that, too."

"Why not ask your partner, then?" question Goro.

With a dazed expression, Zorome responds, "What? I'd rather ask a cute girl, like Kokoro-chan." The moment he looks at the pistil table, he exclaims when caught the Genista pair copying the Strelizia duo.

Futoshi sticks his fingers up in a V-shape as Kokoro giggles, "We see, we do."

Miku got up and leaned over the table, wondering, "What's with you? So easily influenced." She finished by giving her partner a threatening glare, making him flinch with fear.

"You know Zorome, you could just come here and ask," affirmed Asuna as she laid down her utensils.

Zorome's eyes widen, "S-So you'll do that for me?" Without a response from Asuna, he stood up from his seat and started walking over, "Thanks, Asu-wait what are you doing?" Surprisingly she rose from her seat and casually strolled to the stamen table with her plate and utensils.

"I'm switching seats with you." Asuna swiftly swapped their drinks and meals around, explaining, "In my seat, you could ask both Kokoro and your cute partner to feed you. With me in your seat, I get to do the same with Kirito~kun." Zorome stares speechlessly as she sat down, struggling to determine whether he should feel more grateful or irritated by her actions.

"Zorome, would you like a bite?" invited Kokoro with the honey-covered bread still in her hand. Without another doubt, he sped over to Asuna's seat and sat down to take a bite, making both his partner and Ikuno sigh. When he leaned back and gulped down, he felt an odd sensation of pleasure.

Zorome sighs, "This makes bread taste even bet-"

"Then how about this?" Miku quipped as she cuts him off by shoving a slice of honeyed bread in his mouth.

He quickly bit down before ripping the bread out of his mouth. After chugging down some milk, he turned to his twin-tailed partner, demanding, "What are you doing?!"

"You're the one who wanted to be fed so let your cute partner feed you!" Miku grabbed her fork, stabbing one of her cherry tomatoes before forcing it into Zorome's mouth.

Across the room, Zero Two ignored the two and continued feeding her darling, "One more time. Say, 'Ahh'."

Hiro leaned towards her once more and ate the last scrap of honeyed bread. Zero Two grinned at her darling's satisfaction and turned back to her plate, preparing to offer an assortment of honeyed foods. As she lifted a strip of honey-covered meat, something across the table piqued her interest. Similarly to the other FranXX pairs, Asuna fed her partner but to Zero Two's surprise, Kirito had returned the favor. From observing his gesture, she pouts and faced Hiro who was about to eat the sausage on his fork.

"Hey, darling..." She stops him by tugging his sleeve with her honey-soaked hand, accidentally staining it.

Without noticing the stain, Hiro laid down his fork, wondering, "What is it, Zero Two?"

Rather than respond, she quickly shifts her stare between him and the Zephilla couple, hoping he'll understand what she desires. Perplexed, he followed her gaze, realizing it was directed at Kirito who was offering Asuna some of his food. It took him a moment to comprehend the situation. Hiro reached out to grab the honey pitcher, pouring some of the golden substance onto his plate. He smears a strip of meat onto the honey before holding it up to Zero Two's mouth. The red pistil happily chowed it down and for some reason it tasted even sweeter, causing her to release a soft squeal.

Being one of the few that heard her, Kirito comments, "Too sweet for you?"

Annoyed, Zero Two frowns and waved him off, using her honey-soaked hand. Simultaneously, Goro and Asuna lean away as Kirito jolts, for he felt some honey splat onto his face, making both pistils at their table giggle. Mitsuru rolls his eyes while Hiro covers his mouth to stifle his chuckle.

After her short giggle fit, Asuna grabbed her napkin, "Here I'll get it." She subconsciously got closer to Kirito and wiped the honey off his face.

"You're doing it wrong," stated Zero Two.

Asuna paused from wiping the rest and glanced over at the red pistil, "Then how would you do it?"

"Just watch," smirks Zero Two. Asuna observes her as she briefly examines Hiro before pointing at his face, spotting some honey hidden above his chin. "Hey, darling, you got something here."

"Huh? Where?" He began feeling around his face until Zero Two clutched his hands.

"Right here." She lets go of his hands and wrapped her arms over his shoulders, pulling him closer to her face. Suddenly she licked below his lips, enjoying his dangerously sweet taste while everyone, except the Zephilla couple, cringed at the sight. Zero Two looks back at Asuna and grins, "That's how."

Unfazed by her action, Asuna laid down her napkin, murmuring, "Oh, I see now." To everyone's surprise, Asuna cupped Kirito's face with both hands and pulled him towards her, making him blush as she licked the remaining honey off his cheek. After seeing the flustered expressions on the Squad's faces, the ruby-horned pistil's stifled chuckle turned into a loud chortle.

Soon Zero Two settles down, wiping a tear from her eye as she faced Asuna once more, "You're different. I like that." Hiro watched the two pistils share a laugh, both surprised and relieved that someone's willing to befriend Zero Two.

At what was originally the pistil table, without bothering to face the two FranXX pairs, Ikuno questions, "You all saw it. Are you gonna do that too?"

The Genista and Argentea pairs exchanged uneasy glances, appearing either flustered or timid when they faced their respective partners. Immediately they refrained from feeding each other and returned to their separate plates, deciding to dine in awkward silence. Amidst the tension, Goro glanced over at his partner but to his dismay, Ichigo looked rather upset as she stared into her teacup, observing her reflection while the two couples continued enjoying each other's meals.

After Breakfast

"Thanks for the food." All plates were cleared and for the first time, both tables had run out of honey.

One by one, the parasites strolled out of the room. Once the Strelizia and Zephilla pairs approached the entrance, the Delphinium duo quickly intervenes, closing the door behind them.

Annoyed by their presence, Zero Two demands, "Move,"

"I will," Immediately, Zero Two cuts Ichigo off and resumed her approach, "after we address your behavior."

The red pistil rolls her eyes as she walks up before the blue-haired leader, hanging her head uncomfortably too close to her face. With an intimidating expression, she iterates, "Get out our way. My darling needs to show me around."

Hiro tilts his head, sputtering, "I am?"

Zero Two looks over her shoulder, frowning, "Yes, you are." She marched back to the blue-eyed stamen and squeezed his wrist, heading back towards Ichigo, "Now let's go."

"Wait..." Goro reached out to stop her. However, before he was able to lay a finger on her, Zero Two smacks his arm away. Hiro tried stalling her movements but after realizing his futile attempts, he resorts to pointless efforts of slipping out of her grasp. "Can't we at least hear what they have to say?"

"Later," Before he could continue, Zero Two turned back and slammed the mess hall door.

Ichigo sighs, "What is with her..." She redirects her attention to Goro, asking, "Are you ok?"

"I'm fine," He suddenly flinches before rubbing his arm, "but she hits hard."

"You'd be surprised at what she can do," noted Asuna from being one of the very few to witness Zero Two's agile feats.

"But why hold us back? What did we do?" wondered Kirito as he leaned against the stamen table.

Ichigo gestured towards Asuna, "That thing you did earlier. Please don't do it again." She placed her hands on her hips, Stop trying what she does. Her influence could affect out numbers."

"It could change them in a good way. Kokoro fed Futoshi like Zero Two and they looked like they were enjoying it," mentions Asuna.

"But things like how you licked Kirito's cheek isn't good." justified Ichigo.

"And to be honest, it's uncomfortable for us to see you do that," added Goro as he rubbed his nape.

"Sorry about that." apologized Kirito. Now that he thought about it a lot of his friends, especially his female ones, have been bothered numerous times by their affectionate displays. "but it's kinda a habit since we do stuff like that regularly."

"Even this?" Ichigo points at her cheek.

"Well Asuna did surprise me with that but since it was her, I was fine with it." shrugged Kirito as his gaze lands on Ichigo. "Usually it's not a lick though." He ends by giving her a wink, implying a certain detail.

Understanding what he meant, a blush began creeping on her cheeks, making Ichigo abruptly turn her head away. After a brief moment of recollection, she glares at the black-haired stamen, "Still you're-"

"How about you try it for yourself?" suggested Asuna as she headed towards the pistil table, snatching something from the fruit tray before walking up to the blonde stamen. He expected her to feed him but instead, she pulled his wrist and placed the fruit onto his palm, folding his fingers over the item. After Asuna withdrew her hand, Goro opens his fist, finding a single strawberry resting on his palm.

"Ichigo..." pondered Goro.

His thought was interrupted when Kirito shoved him from behind, "Now go on." Goro stumbles towards his blue-haired partner, making her jolt from the sudden approach. Flustered by the situation, he averts his stare to the berry in his shaky hand.

Noticing his discomfort, Ichigo sighs, "Fine, just give it." Wanting to get this over with, she looks away and opens her mouth, patiently waiting for him to hand over the berry. Goro shook his head and took a deep breath, clenching his other fist while hesitantly feeding Ichigo with the other. Once she gulped the strawberry, the other three parasites in the room curiously anticipated her reaction.

"Well?" wondered Asuna.

Ichigo gave Zephilla's pistil a perplexed stare, "Well what?"

She queries, "Like...did the taste change, or do you feel different in some way?"

"It tasted sweet as always, but..." The blue-haired leader then briefly pondered on the other question before plainly shrugging, "I still feel the same."

"Then how about you feed Goro this time?" suggested Kirito as he turns around, reaching for the fruit tray at the stamen table. Before he could offer her the grape, Asuna quickly pulled Ichigo aside as a certain thought came to mind.

She whispers, "If Goro was Hiro, how would you feel right now?" Instantly Ichigo flinches, her cheeks flushed a rosy shade as she sped towards the exit.

Before leaving, she glanced back at Goro, mumbling, "Thanks..." Upon seeing her flustered expression, he speechlessly nods as she closed the door, unaware of the blush appearing on his cheeks.

Asuna walked up to the blonde stamen, leaning towards him, "So you're gonna wait?"

Goro jolts, raising his eyebrows, "With what?"

"You have a crush on her right?" questioned Kirito, throwing the berry into his mouth while his roommate gave him a confused stare. Noticing, he restates, "You care about her want to protect her forever, right?"

"Of course...she's my partner," Goro looks down to the carpeted floor and sighs, "But I know she has a thing for Hiro and I don't want to get in the way of her chance to be happy with him."

"I understand that you don't want to interfere but Ichigo's going to suffer the longer you stay quiet, " noted Asuna, placing her hands on his shoulders while Kirito opens the door behind her. "Just think about it."

"If she does get hurt in the end...don't hesitate to comfort her." advised Kirito as he extends his right arm behind Asuna, pulling her close to rest a hand on her shoulder. To Goro, his small gesture emitted a warm, soothing aura. The Zephilla couple exited the room, leaving the blue stamen alone to reflect his thoughts.

Together, the Strelizia pair roamed around the building, starting on the first floor. Since the bathroom was just next door, Hiro decided to start the tour there. "Over here, we have fixed times for waking up, bathing, and going to sleep. All of it. Everything's laid out for us, even the clothes we wear and the food we eat."

Rather than explain everything fully, he silently observed Zero Two as she balanced onto the bath walls, ready to answer all of her questions.

"What's next?" wondered Zero Two as she hopped off the wall, wandering back towards the locker section.

"Let's finish this floor first." Hiro follows her to the main entrance and took the lead, "We'll go outside after I show you upstairs."

With Zero Two trailing behind, Hiro wandered across the foyer into the library, and surprisingly, the red pistil perused the vast collection. At first, she skimmed past shelves packed with various literary genres until all of a sudden, she pulled out books from different sections and just glanced at them before dropping the slabs onto the carpeted floor, making Hiro's eyes widen. He quickly crouched down to retrieve the fallen books and for once, replaced the volumes without bothering to organize, despite knowing he'll tick off two of his squadmates. Finished with his stack, he looked across the room, spotting Zero Two reaching for another book.

Before she threw it away, Hiro asks, "Are you looking for something?"

"Hmm..." Zero Two scanned the book and after seeing a simple crown on the cover, she threw it back over her shoulder, "'Not really..."

Hiro rushed forwards and barely caught the book, placing it down onto a nearby table. "Be carefu-" He paused and looked around the room for her, finally realizing that she walked out. Hiro sighs and moved the remaining books onto the table before leaving. A couple of rooms later, the two trekked upstairs to one of the living rooms. After scanning the room, Zero Two noticed the glass cases mounted on the wall and began to curiously examine the items inside. According to Hiro or rather the adults, inside were old items that have been used by humans before the age of klaxosaurs.

"Oh really..." mumbled Zero Two.

When she was done, Hiro led her down the hall towards the stamen wing. Before turning around the corner, he paused to look out the window, "This entire forest was built to fine-tune the parasites' numbers, apparently."

"Is that why there's a ceiling, too?" wondered Zero Two.

"Probably. But even with the ceiling, it does rain here," added Hiro.

"Rain?" questioned Zero Two. Unlike the parasites, she has never seen such a form of precipitation or even recalls hearing the word 'rain'.

"Yeah. Water comes pouring down from the ceiling."

Zero Two's eyes widen with excitement, "Wow, I wanna see that! Do it for me!"

Her sudden request made Hiro wince, "I can't. Papa and the others decide when it happens."

She pouts, restating, "I wanna see it right now. Do it."

"But..." He pondered for a moment, trying to think of a response but Zero Two quickly grew tired and diverts her attention to the window, dropping the discussion overall.

Shortly they turned the corner and found Goro walking out of their shared room. Once the blonde stamen noticed the Strelizia pair, he moved out of the way without question and leaned against the wall, allowing Zero Two to explore the room. With a troubled expression, Goro observed the horned pistil as she began carelessly jumping on his bed.

"By the way, why'd you suddenly ask me to show you around?" wondered Hiro while watching his partner bounce around.

"Why? Because...I'm going to live here, too." happily announced Zero Two with a smile, instantly causing Hiro and Goro to flinch with confusion. Apparently they weren't the only ones, for Argentea's stamen was nearby and abruptly popped in next to Goro, visibly disturbed with Zero Two's presence.

"Eh?! Wh-What's a girl doing here?" fumed Zorome, interrupting Zero Two fun. "Stay out of the boys' wing!"

Hiro stutters, "S-Sorry! We'll be right out!"

"So should I leave too?" The black-haired stamen paused and looked up to face the feminine voice, finding Zephilla's pistil arriving next to Goro.

Zorome clenched his fists with frustration, demanding, "Why are you here again?!"

"If you're trying to find Kirito, he's not here," notified Goro.

"I was actually looking for you, Goro. Ichigo's heading out soon and she asked me to find you," informed Asuna.

Before Goro could say anything, Zero Two swiftly hopped over and clung to Asuna, declaring, "You're coming with us outside,"

Asuna faced the red pistil, giving her a perplexed stare, "Ok but why?"

"I wanna know where we'll have our double date," smirked Zero Two, discomforting the boys as she rested her chin onto Asuna's shoulder.

"She can come but let's go, Zero Two!" Hiro quickly gave Zero Two her shoes before subconsciously seizing both hers and Asuna's hand. He hung his head low while leading the two pistils out of the stamen wing. From witnessing their gesture, Zorome placed a hand on his hip and watched with annoyance as they jogged down the hall.

He leans forwards, commenting, "The heck? Look at them, holding hands and all." Goro copied Zorome and turned to overlook the trio with a worried gaze directed at the black-haired stamen.

After typing the name of Asuna and Kirito's FranXX so many times, somehow I think I forgot the original spelling. But then again, all of you know what I'm talking about in the end.

The poll on my profile is still open until episode 6 is posted and go vote if you haven't.

Episode 5 might have a third part since it's actually a good episode to add more fillers so episode 6 might be delayed. Also, with a month of summer left and unfinished school work awaiting me, the rest of episode 5 might be posted a bit later than I planned but it really depends on if I end up being stuck with writer's block again.

If you don't know what the poll is for:

Throughout the entire Darling in the FranXX timeline, some months don't have events from the episodes. I could try to add extra chapters for special events, so should I add additional chapters with these topics? (You can choose all three if you like them. Also if anyone has other ideas, leave them as reviews in the most recent chapter of Code 000.) If not then review saying you want no extra chapters.

- Kirito and Asuna's (maybe Hiro's) Birthday

- If possible or wanted, Aincrad Anniversary

- Memorials for Eugeo and Yuuki (adds extra for when some of the Nines die)