*(Y/N) POV, Plantation's 13 Mistilteinn, day after Zero Two's return to the Nines*

After Zero's departure and Code 015, 'advance' on Hiro, Ryuko and I didn't talk to anyone. We went back to our rooms and just keep ourselves shut. They tried to talk with us, with Code 056 even spending fifteen minutes monologing with me in our room. I wasn't interested, I turned my back and went to take a nap. All this time I was thinking.

'How do we get Zero back to us? To her Darling?'

Hiro wasn't better. Since he last saw Zero, his usual behavior, and attitude went to a state of depression with suicidal thoughts. He didn't show it, but the way his eyes were looking, all dull and without any other emotion than one... longing.

(Y/N): "Fuck..." I whisper. I didn't go for breakfast, I want to spend as little time with Squad 13 as I can "We have three hours to get a plan. Zero is with the Nines, and it will be hard to get her back. Alpha and his lackeys will never allow that" I get determined "I need to find a way to activate Thanatos" I get my laptop on my stomach and search through Heliconia's documentation. "It's got to be there somewhere" I then remembered uncle Werner's words.

'When negative and positive, male and female factors combine, and their hearts become one, the Iron Maiden will reveal her true form... it's not in the FranXX... it's about pilots and how they connect! They need to feel the same strong feeling!'

Getting my laptop aside I rush to the girls' side and knock on the doors, hoping I will see my partner on the other side. Soon, the raven-haired girl open them and I look straight into her eyes

'Ryuko... my beloved Ryuko... was she always so beautiful?'

(Y/N): "Ryuko..."

Ryuko: "Oh, hey honeybun? What's up?"

(Y/N): "Ryuko... are you alone?" Ryuko nods.

Ryuko: "I am. 015 and 196 are in the mess hall" I grab her arm, and we get inside, closing the door behind me "What're you doing?"

(Y/N): "Ryuko Matoi... you know I love you more than anything in my life" Ryuko nods once again

Ryuko: "(Y/N)... did something happen? Wh-Why are you saying it out of a sudden?"

(Y/N): "I want to make sure one thing is clear. That you're mine and mine alone, and that my love for you is infinite" Ryuko starts blushing "I love you, Ryuko, for everything you are. I love the look in your eyes when you want to achieve something, the way you pout when I get on your nerves or embarrass you. I love your fierce personality, and your blue eyes which I can stare into all day and night. You're smart, you're brave, you're caring. Despite being a tomboy, you're as cute as girls which spent hours putting makeup on themselves, with you not needing any of that because your natural beauty is enough" I hold her arms, still keeping eye contact "But most of all, I love you for being here with me and not leaving my side. From our days in Matoi's mention, through boarding school, to this day we were always together when we could. Every second I spent with you makes me realize how fortunate I am that I'm your lover. Ryuko, remember our promise, I will marry you-" It was enough for Ryuko. Being impatient, she grabs my hoodie and slams her lips on mine. Melting in the feeling, we embrace and explore our bodies. It doesn't matter that someone could come and see us, all that mattered to me was the girl in my arms. Ryuko slowly backed her face, a visible string of saliva still connecting us. We pant and look at each other.

Ryuko: "It feels... amazing"

(Y/N): "I... know" we get back to kissing, this time turning it more into a make-out session as Ryuko gets her hands under my shirt, while I massage her thighs and butt area. Moaning, we fell on the floor, not breaking contact whatsoever. However, our session is interrupted by a call from Ryuko's communicator. We get up and Ryuko picks it up.

Ryuko: "Code 015, you want something?" I can hear 015 correcting it to her nickname and telling her about wanting to talk with us "Okay, I will grab Omega, and we will see you later" she puts the device back into her pocket "(Y/N), Ichigo wants to talk with us" I sigh.

(Y/N): "So... what do we do? She removed us"

Ryuko: "Let's see what she has to say. We will decide later" We left the room and get to messing hall. Everyone finished their food as they leave the room "Good Morning Squad 13" she greets them, to be met with nods. We enter the room as 015 is sitting by one table.

Ichigo: "(Y/N), Ryuko. Please, sit down" we did as asked

(Y/N): "What did you want to talk about, 015?"

Ryuko: "I and Omega were kinda busy" she huffs. We look at 015, as she seems kinda hurt.

(Y/N): "Is it about our mission? Don't worry, Reapers are a part of Sixth United Company, we're getting deployed at the same time as Squad 13"

Ichigo: "Why? Why're you two doing this?" she looks down "Why're you acting like we're strangers to you two?!"

Ryuko: "015-"

Ichigo: "It's Ichigo! I don't want you two calling me by my code! I want you two to call me by my name!" I sigh.

(Y/N): "015, APE protocols-"

Ichigo: "And since when do you two care about them!" she tears up "I'm sorry. I got my emotions to control my actions again! I didn't want to remove you two, or even Zero Two! But Hiro was in danger, you need to understand how I felt! (Y/N), Ryuko, you two know each other for so long like I know Hiro! Ryuko, what would you do if some girl went and tried to deceive and hurt (Y/N)?! You would do the same thing, and don't try to lie. I know you too well" I and Ryuko look at her, eyes wide "I have one request for both of you" she bows "Please rejoin Squad 13! You two are a part of our family, and there is no one who could replace you!" She still bows, awaiting our answer.

Ryuko: "015" Ichigo looks at us with wide eyes, her hopes slowly draining as she's referred by code "You're right" blue-haired girl gets shocked and looks at her "I would do anything, and I mean everything to keep (Y/N) safe. But it doesn't mean you can hurt your friends in doing so" Ryuko sighs "It was the second time in one day, Ichigo. And we do have feelings despite what you said" Ryuko look away "It hurt, it hurt me that despite not knowing anything, you were first to judge either of us. And let me tell you, Hiro and Zero Two know each other for as long as you know him" Ichigo gasps.

Ichigo: "Huh?!"

(Y/N): "It's not our task to tell you about their history together. If you ask, maybe Hiro will tell you, and then you would understand how much you messed up" I and Ryuko stand up to leave.

Ryuko: "See you in the briefing room, leader" we try to leave, but I turn back to Ichigo

(Y/N): "Remember, Zero too saved your asses multiple times"

We left the room and get to the backyard, getting some warm-up for the upcoming battle I and Ryuko spar. I throw a right straight, but Ryuko blocks it and follows with a kick to my midsection. She runs to me, jumps up, and tries guillotine kicking me. I roll away, as she jumps from her twine, only to block another punch, this one making her skid away.

Ryuko: "(Y/N), chill out, it's just training"

(Y/N): "Sorry, love"

I run to her, trying to connect a Muay Thai kick to her torso, only for her to catch my leg, spin us around, grounding me, and put a leg lock

Ryuko: "Now, say uncle" she puts pressure on me, trying to make me tap out

(Y/N): "Never!" Ryuko puts even more force, making it more painful for me "Ghh!"

Ryuko: "I told you, tap out"

(Y/N): "And I told you, never!" now my partner arches her back, gaining even more leverage

Ryuko: "Stop being stubborn, honeybun, and admit your defeat"

(Y/N): "Okay, uncle, uncle!" Ryuko sets me free "For fuck's sake" I look at the black-haired girl "Those thunder thighs of yours can deliver a lock" I smirk.

Ryuko: "Pervert..." she walks to me and helps me up "Well, I'm all fired up, we can-" My communicator rang, and I see a message from Hachi

(Y/N): "Duty calls... Let's go, Ryu Ryu" We hold each other hands and walk together to the briefing room. We enter as everyone looks at us.

Futoshi: "(Y/N)? Ryuko?" we look at the kids

Ryuko: "Hey guys" she smiles at them

(Y/N): "Something's wrong?" Squad 13 looks at us.

Miku: "You two are fine now?"

Zorome: "Yeah! With how you acted yesterday" I chuckle.

(Y/N): "We talked with Ichigo here" I point to her, as she sits next to Hiro "And after she apologized, we decided to stay with Squad 13" Some guys cheer "We're here to get Zero Two back too" Hiro looks up at me and Ryuko, then Hachi and Nana enter, starting the briefing

Hachi: "This mission has but one objective. Take control of the area known as the Gran Crevasse" A map appears on a screen behind him. It shows the location of APE and enemy forces "The Fourth United Company is currently carrying out attacks but due to heavy Klaxosaur resistance, they are not making inroads. As a result, the Sixth United Company will be deployed shortly to reinforce the Fourth. You will be working with the Squads from four other plantations for this mission" Kokoro raises her hand.

Kokoro: "What exactly is in Gran Crevasse?" Nana and Hachi look at each other, nod, and look back at us.

Nana: "This may shock some of you, but take a look" A few video feeds come live on the monitor where the map was. The first is of the Gran Crevasse itself, a large dome-like structure. Another shows Klaxosaurs pouring from the walls of the Gran Crevasse.

Zorome: "What's that? A black wall?"

Miku: "What the hell, why are there some many?" Feed change, this time showing a destroyed plantation.

Futoshi: "No way..." It changes again, showing two standard-model FranXXs surrounded by Klaxosaur, fighting for their lives.

'Those four are dead and don't even know'

Feed changes again, showing the lonesome part of the battlefield, littered by a few broken standard models and corpses of Klaxosaurs.

Kokoro: "That's awful"

'This bastard is throwing everything on one card' I clench my fist but calm down when Ryuko places her hand over mine

Mitsuru: "This battle is clearly on a different scale than all our prior ones"

Hachi: "Taking over the Gran Crevasse is Papa's long-standing wish. If we win, this battle could be a turning point in humanity's history"

Goro: "H-Hey, look" we look back at the monitor, seeing a line of M9 models. Before them, however, is Strelizia in her Stampede Mode, her tail waggling back and forth.

'This little bastard is doing it again! He's dead meat! I will torture him until he begs he was never born! Burn him down cell by cell!'

Lizia roars and charges into the battle

Hiro: "Zero Two?" I spot Ichigo grabbing his hand, avoiding his gaze. I feel Ryuko squeezes my hand kinda tighter.

Ryuko: "We're coming, Zero. Just wait for us" she whispers and I lean to her.

(Y/N): "Even if we have to kill Alpha in the process" We nod to each other, only one objective in our minds: Save Zero Two and bring her back here

Speaker: Message from mission command, Sixth United Company prepare to sortie" Nana sighs and looks at us

Nana: "You are up, kids" Everyone leaves the room and gets to change. When we want to go to the docking bay, Hiro stops us.

Hiro: "Guys be careful ok?"

Goro: "Hey, you've got nothing to worry about" Zorome stands up and gives Hiro his typical cocky smile

Zorome: "Yeah! We are about to go kick some ass"

Futoshi: "Leave my food alone, okay, Hiro?" we all walk forward, as Hiro gets his head down

Ichigo: "Just sit tight ok? When we get back I will teach you how to pilot a FranXX from the ground up.

Hiro: "Please come back alive, guys" Everyone gives him a thumbs up and then walks further. I and Ryuko decide to hang back.

Ryuko: "Hiro" we look at the boy "We'll get her back. We promise"

Hiro: "You're saying it like it's so simple" We smile at him

(Y/N): "We are not coming back without her" I put a hand on Hiro's shoulder "Don't miss your chance buddy. Remember what I told you, yesterday? She needs you, even more now than before" Hiro nods, and Ryuko and I proceed to Heliconia. After we get out of Plantation 13, Squad 13 is joined by twenty more standard FranXX models, meaning Sixth Company is gathered.

Delphinium: "All FranXX counted down. Awaiting orders"

Nana: "Your goal is point F2. All units, move out"

(Y/N): "Ye hear her. Let's rock, Ryuko"

Heliconia: "Hell yeah!" Activating her boosters, she rushes ahead of the company. A trail of Klaxosaurs carcass follows her "We're getting closer to her position, (Y/N), how is Conia doing?"

(Y/N): "Everything is fine, love" I see Conia smiles and blushes a little on a screen "We're cutting through the Klaxosaurs like butter" We get to a group of Conrad, readying to annihilate them, only for one M9 unit to get it before us "Oh great..."

Alpha: "Omega, Psi, great to see you finally arrived" Heliconia groans "We were expecting you two with Iota yesterday"

Heliconia: "Changes of plans, Alpha" She smirks at the M9 unit "Don't think we're here as Nines either. We're still a part of Squad 13"

Alpha: "What a shame" Klaxosaurs surround the two units, and they get back to back. "What do you say, Psi? Omega?" Heliconia nods. The two mech does a quick job, annihilating our enemies in seconds.

Alpha: "Not bad for barbarians"

(Y/N): "You ruined it. You just had to do and ruin the moment, Alpha" I growl "Out of our way!" Heliconia sprung into the nearest pack of Klaxosaur, where Nines kill two, she kills twice as much, bringing our efficiency up and theirs down.

Heliconia: "Come on (Y/N)! Another one!" she's all fired up "Keep them coming!"

(Y/N): "Nine 'o clock, a neat group of I think fifty, plus one Moho just to spice it up" well... I'm all fired up too.

Heliconia: "Heck yeah!" Heliconia uses her booster to get to the pack, killing Conrad in ten seconds flat, finishing it up by slicing through Moho, its core impaled on her scythe "Hahaha!" Then, Delphinium calls her

Delphinium: "Heliconia! Get back here right now!"

Heliconia: "So bossy..." I chuckle.

(Y/N): "Heh, Zero said that about her too" Heliconia uses her boosters again, getting back to Sixth Company. Right away, Delphinium scolds us.

Delphinium: "What are you two thinking?! Why did you rush out?! We're supposed to stick together!" Heliconia gets her nose up and scoffs at her.

Heliconia: "Hmpf" she zooms next to Delphinium, as once again we're closing to the battlefield, with Nines being the first thing we see

Argentea: "Wow. It's like having a bunch of Strelizias and Heliconias" Mentioned black FranXX looks at her, kinda offended.

(Y/N): "We're much better than them, Miku" I radio Delphi "You shouldn't have called us back, Ichigo. Six Company would just get here anyway"

Delphinium: "Now it's not the time to argue (Y/N). Focus, we're joining them" I roll my eyes and push Conia's controls, making her speed up. Soon, we're back on our killing streak, as Heliconia slices every Klaxosaur in her sight, with Squad 13 right behind her, killing nearby Klaxosaurs. That's until one M9 unit lands behind Delphinium.

Alpha: "Hey. So that's your FranXX. How truly adorable"

Delphinium: "Gee, thanks. So, what's the situation?"

Alpha: "We're holding them just fine, but we're not getting anywhere" Heliconia cuts a Moho near them and turns to the M9 unit

Heliconia: "So get the fuck out of our way shrimp, and let us do the work!" She slashes another Klaxosaur, while Futoshi and Zorome laugh from her repartee.

Alpha: "Cold as always, Psi" he sighs and his FranXX point at the dome "See that? The Crevasse has been sealed within a thick dome. To get rid of it we will have to strike from the inside. So basically..."

Delphinium: "We have to go through there, huh? Let's go guys." She turns to FranXX of Squad 13 "Argentea, Heliconia, with me! Chlorophytum and Genista, provide cover fire!"

Squad 13: "Roger!" We burst into action.

Chlorophytum: "We're going to full power!"

Futoshi: "Right on!"

Chlorophytum crosses her arms over her chest and then quickly thrusts them to her sides. As she does the wing-like attachments slide into place on the lower portion of her forearms and begin to glow, forming some kind of weapon.

'And I thought it was for flight stabilization' I smile 'They're still full of surprises

Soon, six beams of energy shoot out of it, evaporating Klaxosaurs on contact and clearing a path to our destination

Heliconia: "Holy cow, Ikuno! You were hiding that from me?!" Chlorophytum smiles viciously at the black and red FranXX, before turning back and firing her weapon again. Heliconia rushes forward with the two melee FranXX of Squad 13

(Y/N): "Hey, Zorome? Goro?" I radio the two boys.

Goro/Zorome: "Hmm?"

(Y/N): "While we're here anyway, why not have some fun? You two wanna bet which team gets more?"

Argentea/Zorome: "You're on!"

Delphinium: "This is not a game, (Y/N)" Heliconia does a chicken taunt

Heliconia: "Someone's a chicken" she sings at white-blue FranXX, irritating her "What? Poor little Ichigo is scared she will lose.~" Delphinium growls and smirks later.

Delphinium: "Ryuko... I will make you eat those words. You're on!" she rockets into the fray, making Conia chuckle.

Heliconia: "That's got her fired up. Come on Miku, Zorome!" They soon join Delphinium in the fray. Heliconia continues with her slaughter, laughing with every swing of her weapon "Hahaha!"

(Y/N): "Come on! Another one! Haha!" Heliconia continues swinging "Love, I think it's getting cold. How about we warm the atmosphere, hmm?" I smirk, the same as the FranXX

Heliconia: "I don't see a problem, haha!"

(Y/N)/Heliconia: "Scissor Scythe, Blazing Sun!"

With her scythe ablaze, Heliconia doubles her efficiency. A smile was still present on her face.

Heliconia: "It's so much fun!" she cuts another Conrad pack in half "Come on (Y/N), these are too easy!"

(Y/N): "Hehe. They are. But they also are a great way to blow some steam, and I have a lot of it today!" I spot something on our left, a dog-like Gutenberg with three heads "What about that Cerberus?"

Heliconia: "Perfect!" Using her jets, she flies onto the Klaxosaur "Come here you overgrew mutt"

She stabs her scythe into its back, making it emit a shriek. Heliconia then runs towards its heads, dragging her weapon behind, creating a massive slit, and finally dragging it down between two heads. When there, she detonates her charge, blowing up one of the heads. Klaxosaur tries to sway her away, only for Conia to jump into the snout of another one. Looking right at its eyes, she stabs her scythe into one and detonates her second charge, blowing on the second one. Heliconia then dives into what's remains of it and makes her way to the core, finally impaling it on her scythe, as the Gutenberg falls on the side, taking out some larva Klaxosaur before finally exploding.

Heliconia: "That's more like it" She looks at the two other FranXX. Delphinium makes short work with her targets, moving with grace and precisely cutting Klaxosaurs on her way, doing a swirl from time to time.

'One two three, step, one two there, step' I chuckle

(Y/N): "Ryuko... do you have anything to do with why Ichigo knows this?" I smirk.

Heliconia: "For sure I wasn't asked by girls to teach them during the sleepovers and for sure I didn't teach Ichigo waltz" she looks away from my gaze "And for sure I didn't tell them-" I cut her off

(Y/N): "Yeah, yeah" I smirk "You little devil" Meanwhile, Argentea plunders her claws into a group of Klaxosaurs too slow for her speed and agility

Zorome: "Alright! You saw that (Y/N)?! We already got 20!"

(Y/N): "We got 38 for now plus a Gutenberg!" I boast "Eat dust shrimp!"

Zorome: "No way! Come on Miku! We need to beat them!" We continue our fight toward Gran Crevasse. Wherever we go, we leave a trail of bodies and a mist of Klaxosaurs' blood follows. All while Klaxosaurs keep coming, replacing those we killed. Finally, we close in, revealing a large oval door

Goro: "I see it... but wait, is it man-made?"

(Y/N): "Looks like it"

Delphinium: "Everyone we're going in!" However, before we can advance, a violent tremor shakes the earth. It lasts for a moment, but afterward, all nearby Klaxosaurs make a hurried retreat.

Zorome: "What was that?" I look around.

(Y/N): "I don't know Zorome... I don't like it"

Chlorophytum: "Klaxosaurs are retreating" Soon, my worries become reality. The ground under one plantation cracks open. From it, a trapezoid-shaped Klaxosaur emerges, bigger than any I've ever seen, bigger even than the plantation itself. It moves the earth with it, carrying the mountains it was lying beneath with it. As for the unfortunate plantation, it falls to the ground, its outer shell cracks, and trains of its tram system fall out of it.

(Y/N): "Super-Lehmann Class..." I stay speechless, knowing it's a serious threat. I look at the side of the fallen plantation, spotting number 26 "No..."

Futoshi: "Guys the mountains are moving!" Soon, there is a bright flash, as Plantation 26 detonates, doing basically nothing to the Klaxosaur

'Its reactors must've suffered a meltdown...'

Heliconia: "Fuck! 090! This is Heliconia, respond!" She tries her best to call Squad 26 leader.

Goro: "This can't be happening" a horror in his voice

(Y/N): "I hope they're-" I got cut off, hearing 'Protocol 32' from the radio making my hair stand on end "No..."

'Motherfucker! It's like I always say, to him, our lives don't matter!'

???: "Yes, sir" Heliconia's face turns into one of horror

Heliconia: "It was 090!"

(Y/N): "Motherfuckers... Suicide protocol..." I get frustrated, but then, Super-Lehmann starts moving... right towards Plantation 13 "NO!"

Mitsuru: "It's moving toward our plantation!" Us and the Nines give chase after the Klaxosaur.

Zorome: "Come on! Why can't things go right just once!"

'Come on you stupid idiot, think. If I don't think about something, it will crush Plantation 13... and then it's Protocol 32 for Squad 13...' I realize, with renewed determination, Heliconia rushes ahead, leading the two Squads.

Alpha: "Well, what now?" his M9 and Heliconia look up, spotting five standard models, each holding a tank full to the brim with Magma Energy

090: "All units, Protocol 32" I and Ryuko try calling him, trying to make him stop.

(Y/N): "090, wait!"

Heliconia: "Stop!" Then we hear a final message from our good comrade.

090: "Squad 13, the rest is in your hands"

A brilliant explosion occurs, ripping apart Squad 26

Heliconia: "090! Squad 26!"

(Y/N): "Fucking bullshit! Was it worth it?! It's still moving!" I yell in frustration. Klaxosaur's right track is now destroyed.

Goro: "Wh-What the hell?"

Zorome: "I-It stopped!"

(Y/N): "No..." The Klaxosaur slowly grinds to a halt before Plantation 13. But, instead of coming to a stop, it lurches forward, driving its head into the side of the structure. It opens its mouth and lets a lot of Conrad inside the City of Plantation 13

Genista: "They are attacking the plantation!"

Delphinium: "And it's up to us to defend it so let's go!"

'If Plantation falls, it's over. These motherfuckers from the council will order Protocol 32 for us. No way I will allow it!' Then, all of us hear a guttural growl. A blur of red and white rushes past us. Strelizia screeches, using her claws to climb up and into Plantation 13 through the hole made by Super-Lehmann.

Delphinium: "Zero Two... she came back" Heliconia wastes no time, activating her jets and flying right inside.

(Y/N): "I will not let you destroy our future!" Heliconia lands, but as soon as she did, she deactivates. Looking ahead at pistil's platform, I can hear a quiet sob.

Ryuko: "I-I'm sorry (Y/N)... It's just... the thought that we can lose them... that these fuckers can order them to do the same as Squad 26 did... It's too much"

(Y/N): "We will not allow them Ryuko. Not now, not ever. We have a planet to save, and they're gonna be a part of it"

Ryuko: "But..." I grab her face into my hands, planting a kiss on her lips. She melts quickly into it and I can see all her worries melt away. When we pull off, we look into each other eyes.

(Y/N): "Better?" Ryuko dabs her tears away and nods "We're here with one goal. Save our home and our family" Ryuko looks at me, sparks behind her eyes shining like never before. She nods, and we get back to our places, where I commence the connection.

Typical green orbs full of memory get in my vision, but this time they are not only with our memories from Honno Town. They are also memories of Squad 13. When we arrived, from the beach, from numerous moments we lived with them. Memories that what are we fighting for is right. Memories of mine and Ryuko's promise to stay together forever and marry each other... I then get back to the real world, spotting some bright light dying from our FranXX. I think nothing of it and look at Ryuko's headdress, spotting both our scores have reached 120

'It worked' I look at the monitor closely, and it flashes 'Perfect synchronization, Heliconia Thanatos activated'

(Y/N): "Ryuko!" the face of our FranXX appears in her usual place on my right, but this time it was covered partially by a black metal hood. Heliconia's natural blue eyes changed their color to crimson red.

Heliconia: "What?" she looks at herself, and twirls a little, as her hood evolves into a black metal cape, reaching to her knees "So that's your plan, huh, hon?"

(Y/N): "Yup, we need everything we got. Please welcome our FranXX ultimate, Heliconia Thanatos" I smile "Uncle told us about Iron Maiden's true form... hope you like it. Oh, and you may take a look at our weapon, hon"

Heliconia: "Like it? I love it!" she checks the cape "Extra armor, neat. She then looks at her weapon, spotting an additional scissor blade on the other end of the scythe as well as a split in the middle of its pole "Cool! Double scythe!"

(Y/N): "Hehe, I like it. And I love you, honey"

Heliconia: "I love you too" She looks back, spotting Strelizia fighting with Conrad "Now, let's show them why we are called Reapers!"

*3rd POV, Plantation 13 Defense Room*

Analyst: "Both Codes 004 and 006 scores got to 120. They achieved a perfect connection"

Dr. FranXX: "I knew they can do it" he stares with a proud look at Heliconia's grim reaper config

'My nephew, my niece-in-law, this is why I wanted you in my plans. Your determination will lead us to victory' Doctor thought.

Hiro: "Doctor. What happened to Heliconia?" Hiro looks in awe at Heliconia's new look.

Dr. FranXX: "It's like I always say. When two factors, male and female, connect, and their hearts become one, the Iron Maiden will reveal her true form. This is Heliconia Thanatos, Heliconia's true form. Grim Reaper, getting ready to collect the souls of those who stood in her way. She is unstoppable in this form, just like Strelizia"

Hiro: "Like Strelizia?"

Dr. FranXX: "Of course. Heliconia and Strelizia are sister units, the two strongest FranXX in existence"

Nana: "Raise the bulwarks! If we lose this place, we're done for!"

Hachi: "That's right. Neutralizing the Super Lehmann class is our top priority"

Nana: "Doctor, it isn't safe here. Please return to HQ. You get back to Mistilteinn, too, Hiro!" Hiro and Dr. FranXX look at the monitor showing Strelizia and Heliconia fighting Klaxosaurs.

Dr. FranXX: "Don't you find her far more beautiful than any human? Pure and proud, and more alone than us all. She's like a Klaxosaur, through and through"

Hiro: "No! You're wrong! Zero Two is not a Klaxosaur!" Doctor turns to him "She is my partner!"

Dr. FranXX: "Then why are you still here my boy? Go to her" with that Hiro sprinted from the room "Good choice, young Hiro... good choice" the elder gentleman smiles.

*(Y/N) POV, Heliconia's cockpit, Inside Plantation'13 City*

Heliconia: "That's it! No more! Scissor Scythe, Execution Mode!" her scythes transfer into a double-sided lance "Blazing Sun!" with it on fire, Heliconia impales 5 Conrad into it "Now to the Grande finale! (Y/N), you ready?!"

(Y/N): "I'm always ready, love!" Heliconia smiles.

Heliconia: "Great. Flamethrower!" with the palm of her hand aimed up, she sends out a stream of fire, burning down every Conrad in 100 meters perimeters

Heliconia: "This place is our home! Those kids are our family!"

(Y/N): "You will pay for trying to destroy it, and for hurting them!"

Heliconia/(Y/N): "You damn monsters!" Heliconia throws herself into the horde, slashing and killing more and more of those who stand in our way. She pulls her scythe apart, and it disconnects in the middle, creating two Scissor Kamas

Heliconia: "Holy shit, this is so freaking cool!" Double wielding them, Heliconia slashes her way toward Strelizia, when we notice the rest of Squad 13 arrive.

Delphinium: "What is happening? Where is Heliconia?" Argentea points at us.

Argentea: "Um... Ichigo, I think I found them" They look at where we are, seeing only a hooded FranXX with red glowing eyes

Delphinium: "(Y/N)! Ryuko! Are you there?!" Killing some final Klaxo, Heliconia uses her boosters to get near them. The hooded FranXX gets her hood off, revealing her normal face, with the only difference being her eyes, not blue anymore, but glowing crimson red.

Heliconia: "You're finally here. What took you so long?!"

Argentea: "What took us so long? What happened to your FranXX?!"

Heliconia: "Oh, this?" she gestures to her cape and weapon "Heliconia Thanatos, Heliconia's ultimate form"

Chlorophytum: "Greek's God of Death?" Heliconia nods.

(Y/N): "Less talking, more saving Plantation 13" Heliconia gets her hood back on "Let's go, guys!" Heliconia runs towards enemies, with Squad 13 not so far behind her, not knowing that the upcoming hour will decide about the future of humanity and planet Earth.

Futoshi: "How many more of them do we have to kill?"

Zorome: "Quit whining fatty. We've gotta protect our plantation!"

Futoshi: "Don't call me that!"

Argentea: "Hey why don't you fire more of those beams?" she and Chlorophytum are back to back as one pack of Klaxosaurs surrounds them.

Chlorophytum: "I'm out of energy. I already burned through my reserves too!"

Argentea: "What? Don't be cheap!" the two argue, Genista, however, has none of it.

Genista: "Don't fight, we need to work together" She and Delphi are near the previous two. Strelizia runs between her and our lead FranXX, continuing her own killing spree. Swiping her tail like a mace, cutting Conrad all around.

Delphinium: "Zero Two..."

Goro: "Good thing she and Heliconia are on our side" All of them look up, spotting the black hooded FranXX standing on a heap of Klaxosaurs like a proud hunter on their prey. She builds it up, killing another five with just one sweep of her weapon. She notices the stares, moves her hood away to make her face visible, and waves at them. Then she went back to live up to her name. As we fight, time flew by, we lost touch with it. One thing I know, is we're nowhere near the end, as the flood of Klaxosaurs was still pouring from the Super-Lehmann's mouth. I check our stats, while Heliconia slashes another Klaxosaur, with the spear mode of her upgraded weapon she cuts it into four pieces with just one spin.

Heliconia: "Heck yeah!" she appears on my right "Hey, (Y/N)? How is our overall kill count?" I look for it.

(Y/N): "Eighteen hundred seventy-nine" Heliconia kill another one "eighty" I smirk "New personal best" I look at the hooded FranXX's face "How do you feel, love?"

Heliconia: "Me? I feel excellent! I can still fight!" She gives me a toothy smile "You, honeybun?"

(Y/N): "I've never been better!" I smirk "Come on, there is still so much Klaxosaur to kill!" Heliconia gets an itch again, but when she tries to fly away, she spots a training unit running between her legs.

Heliconia: "Huh? Who could?" I zoom up on the feed... it's Hiro!

(Y/N): "Ryu, it's Hiro!" Heliconia looks amazed.

Heliconia: "Hiro?!" I hum "But what is he-" She looks at Strelizia. The metal lion in the distance continues running around from one Klaxo to another. She looks down later, seeing as the small yellow unit is headed in her direction "He's trying to get to Zero Two!"

(Y/N): "Then what are waiting for?!" I look at Heliconia's face "Ryuko, my beloved, new objective" The mech nods and shoots towards the training unit

Heliconia: "Hiro, we will escort you to her" Heliconia fires off her boosters, following the training unit in its course

(Y/N): "Squad 13, this is Heliconia. We spot a training unit, Hiro's piloting it. We're escorting him to Strelizia, any help would be admired" Hiro soon rushes past Argentea. The pink and white FranXX looks on in shock.

Argentea: "Hiro?" one of Conrad's takes her down, the result of her and her Stamen not paying attention. As Heliconia passes by, she implies the larva onto her blade.

Heliconia: "Miku! Zorome! Come on!" Argentea tries to follow, but near them, Genista's now having problems.

Argentea: "Go! We will help them!" she rockets towards the black-green FranXX, while Heliconia tries to gain on Hiro, who has advanced on her. He waves and jinks around the Klaxosaurs, until one of them, notices him. It extends its tendril, and despite it being a Conrad, it was enough to destroy a fragile training unit. Heliconia gets near him.

Heliconia: "Hiro! You alright?!" She looks at him as blood was gushing from his forehead "Come on! We're getting you to her!" she rockets forward, seeing one Klaxosaur trying to attack the raven-haired boy, but Delphinium beats her to it. White and blue FranXX forces both of her swords into Klaxo's face.

Delphinium: "Why did you come here, Hiro?! What did you think you could do in a training unit?! I'm not letting you go any fur-" she however falls to her knee, her left hand outstretched in a welcoming manner "What are you doing Goro? Why are you shutting us down?"

Heliconia: "Ichigo! Goro!" She yells, closing in the distance to them and turning her scythe into two kamas. Two Klaxosaurs appear behind Delphi. She jumps over her, impaling one of her blades into one before doing a flip, delivering a round kick and a slash later to the second one "How many times do I need to tell you two to be fucking careful?!" She sighs "I slowly start to sound like a more aggressive version of Nana... being a kindergarten teacher, here I go..."

(Y/N): "No" I simply shut her unwise dream off

Goro: "I'm sorry, Ichigo. That's enough"

Delphinium: "But..."

Goro: "I can't stand seeing him and Zero Two like that any second longer" Delphinium deactivates, and Goro opens up her faceplate, offering a hand to Hiro. A moment later, Hiro takes his place inside Delphinium. Her faceplate closes, leaving the blond tall boy near the destroyed training unit. "Good luck bro" Heliconia gets her hand down next to him and smiles at the boy.

Heliconia: "Goro, hop on, you're coming with us!" Goro smiles, jumping on it, and Conia gets it near her head. Ryuko and I shut our FranXX for a minute, as I open up her faceplate, looking at the boy on the other side.

(Y/N): "Goro, you're a fucking legend. Come on, move your ass and get here!" I help Goro on, and he straps himself to the jump seats he used before "Man, I'm glad to have you and Hiro as my bros" I smirk at the blonde, getting back to my seat and activating Heliconia once more. Delphinium activates a second later too.

Heliconia: "Ichigo! Make sure Hiro gets to Zero. Goro is with us" Delphi nods

Delphinium: "Right. Here we go, Hiro" I meanwhile look back at the younger boy in our cockpit.

(Y/N): "Goro" he looks at me "If Ichigo doesn't kiss you after everything you've done today, I will make her do it" Conia's face appears on my right as always, and she looks at the boy too

Heliconia: "Haha! Strawberry for sure owns him at least one peck! Come on Goro, your time is up. Play it right!" Goro simply smiles his awkward smile and places his hands behind his head.

(Y/N): "I think he knows what to do. Come one, love. Don't keep them waiting!"

Heliconia: "Right!" She gets right after Delphinium, assisting, and killing any Klaxo that could stop her.

Delphinium: "Zero Two!" totally unexpected, she tries to drive her swords into the metal lion, Lizia, however, blocks it with her tail. That doesn't stop white and blue FranXX from transferring her Pistil's outrage. "I'm sick and tired of you toying with me!" she tries to stab Strelizia once more, but the metal lion catches her sword in her jaw and bites it down, finally breaking it. Delphi discards it and instead slaps Strelizia "I wish... I wish we'd never known you!" Lizia however pays her back by slapping Delphi's head with the dull side of her tail, knocking off Delphinium's hat. It reveals a mess of metallic red-pink petals acting as her hair.

I sigh... knowing well most of the adults are dead by now it also includes FranXX mechanics, meaning I will need to get my hands dirty and repair Delphi's armor and hat, all by myself

(Y/N): "I hope I have my tools..." Delphinium meanwhile grabs Strelizia by the jaw.

Delphinium: "I will let you get Hiro, alright! So get your shit together!" she drives her head right into Strelizia's maw.

Heliconia: "You can't let someone have something you never really owned, Ichigo... but that's a start" she sighs and looks at both FranXX. They don't move for about thirty seconds, after that we can hear Ichigo's sobbing voice on the radio.

Ichigo: "It's done. (Y/N), Ryuko, bring Goro back" Heliconia gladly walks to an inactive Delphi, gets her out of the maws of the metal lion, and puts her down. Later she squats down to her level, as I and Ryuko once again deactivate her. I open up the faceplate and Goro jumps from it onto Delphinium's. Both FranXX soon activates once again, after that Heliconia picks up Delphi's hat and puts it back onto the white and blue mech's head.

Delphinium: "Thanks, Ryuko" she whispers to the black FranXX, before addressing everyone "Keep them safe! I hate to admit it but Strelizia is the only one who can bring that big lug down!" We get down from the mountain of ruins and stand guard, creating a line of defense between Klaxosaurs and Strelizia

Heliconia: "Ichigo" the black FranXX gets her hood off and places a hand on Delphi's shoulder. Her red eyes are full of support for the younger girl "You did the right thing. We're proud of you" Delphinium sadly nods, some pixel tears on the verge of escaping her eyes. We turn to the horde, a smirk present on Heliconia's face "What do you say, (Y/N)? Round two?"

'Hehe, I can't say no to her' I smirk too

(Y/N): "You bet your ass" Heliconia once again throws herself first in danger, splitting the rushing Klaxosaurs into two separate groups. "Come on, Squad 13! When those two wake up, it'll be over!" Heliconia kill another ten, and that's when I noticed one core open up. Out of it falls a human-like figure mummified in some yellow resin "Ryuko... is that?"

Heliconia: "A Klaxosapien..." she looks shocked at it "May their pure souls find peace at last"

(Y/N): "Princess... please forgive us..." Suddenly, the ground shakes again, this time with audible explosions in the background. Mitsuru shares a live feed of what's going on outside with everyone from Squad 13. Serval Plantations ride up the dome covering Gran Crevasse, then stop, only to self-destruct, sacrificing themselves, but barely doing anything to the sphere shield.

Zorome: "What's going on?"

Futoshi: "Y-Yeah weren't adults still inside them?"

Mitsuru: "It's really strange. Are they sacrificing Plantations?"

(Y/N): "Of course. Papa will do anything to achieve his goal. He doesn't care about any of us"

Zorome: "What is that supposed to mean?!"

Mitsuru: "Exactly what (Y/N) said..."

*Plantation 13 Defense Room, 3rd POV*

Meanwhile, the Caretaker, Commander, and Doctor watch as Plantations go up the dome, exploding one by one

Hachi: "They got too far..."

Dr. FranXX: "Of all the foolish..."

Nana: "Doctor. What should we do?" she turns to the elder gentleman, who strokes his mustache.

Dr. FranXX: "It will be a turning point in our plans. Whenever (Y/N) and Ryuko get children to rebel against them, we will be moving to Stage 2. Be sure to go with them."

Hachi and Nana: "Right"

*Back with (Y/N), inside Heliconia*

(Y/N): "Come on Hiro, you're with her, don't keep us waiting..."

Delphinium: "How much longer?"

Three turret-like Klaxosaur get past our defense and pick up the easiest target... Strelizia. They fire their energy beam at her, as Heliconia tries her best to outdo them. Sadly, she's too slow as the hits connect, sending Strelizia into the air

Heliconia: "Zero Two!" suddenly, a bright flash of light erupts from the metal lion, as well as the signifying sound of an established connection.

Genista: "Look!" She points into the air. A large red light cross illuminates the whole Inner City of Plantation 13, Strelizia in its center.

Delphinium:" That light..." I meanwhile start smiling like an idiot, some tears escape my eyes as I stare in amazement at Strelizia

(Y/N): "Ryuko... he did it... He actually fucking did it! Haha! Hiro, he, he-" I gulp, trying to keep tears in check "Hiro saved her!" Our FranXX's face appears on my right. With the same idiotic smile, as well as some pixel tears falling from her red eyes.

Heliconia: "Yeah" she sniffs "Zero Two's quest to find him" She sniffs again "is finally over! Haha!"

Before us, Strelizia starts transforming. From her bestial Stampede Mode into her lovely Iron Maiden config. It comes with a twist, as instead of her normal white, Strelizia's color scheme changes to red, the same color as her horns. She soon finishes her transformation.

Everyone: "Strelizia!"

'That provides my theory true. If two people who are in love, or feel any other strong emotion towards each other, pilot a FranXX, it unlocks their true form' I look at Lizia 'Eros is truly one of the more beautiful ones'.

Strelizia starts her thrusters, rocketing toward Super-Lehmann Class

Hiro: "Zero Two!"

Strelizia: "Darling!"

Hiro: "Zero Two!"

Strelizia: "Darling! Darling! Darling! Darling!" I smile, seeing the widest smile I've ever seen on Lizia's face. Red FranXX reaches her top speed soon and flies right into Super-Lehmann's mouth. Klaxosaur rocks backward and away from Plantation 13, only for Strelizia to emerge from the other side like a comet. The creature explodes as our friend and little sister radio their declaration of love towards each other to the whole Squad 13 "Darling I'm so happy I met you! I love you!" Hiro laughs, while I and Ryuko are nearly crying out of joy "Zero Two, I feel the same. I love you too!"

(Y/N): "Fucking ninjas cutting onions..." I sniff, dab my tears and look at Heliconia, as she giggles, sniffs, and a stream of pixel tears fell out of her eyes "You want a tissue, love?"

Heliconia: "N-no, thank you my love" She sniffs again, and fans herself with her hand, trying to keep the tears from flowing

Zorome: "Cut the coms dumbass" he dabs his tears

Futoshi: "Seriously" he wipes his tears with a hand

Argentea: "Stupid idiots" she smiles

Delphinium: "I'm happy for you, for both of you" she sheds a single pixel tear, finally understanding what we told her earlier

Hiro: "Zero Two, we've got to destroy that dome. Think we can do it?"

Strelizia: "If we're together, we can do anything!"

Alpha: "Shall we get going too, then?" four M9 units rocket away

(Y/N): "Ryuko, you calmed down?" Heliconia nods "Then let's go too" Heliconia activated her jets and flies out after the M9 units, settling on a cliff nearby, observing as Strelizia cuts down the Klaxosaurs with the same wide smile she had lost nearly six months ago.

'Zero Two is back to her cute, happy self' I smile 'Glad to have you back, little sister' Then Alpha radioed Heliconia

Alpha: "Omega? Psi? You two are not helping us?"

(Y/N): "Nah, why should we? You're the Nines, you can do it without us"

Delta: "Oh come on you two!"

'Delta and Epsilon are the only two I can tolerate within Nines, Alpha is a prick, Beta is a snob, and Gamma... well, I broke his nose because of him trying flirting with Ryuko. Triplets are an unknown'.

Heliconia: "Sorry, Delta, Eps. Reapers' task was to keep Plantation and Squad 13 safe. The dome is your job"

Delta: "You two are such party poopers" she whines on the radio

We continue to observe as Strelizia finally got through and entered the dome. A while later, the large X on the top begins to shine brightly. Nines put their weapons into the dome, as four cracks appear and make their way to the top. When they meet at it, the light becomes blinding and the dome explodes into the sky. Strelizia is in the center of it, as she flies into the sky, before a second explosion happens, clearing the sky from the clouds.

Heliconia: "She... she looks like an angel"

(Y/N): "It's awesome..." I notice the red FranXX has landed and is looking at the sky "Let's meet with her" Heliconia nods and her boosters spring to life as she rockets toward a massive crater, soon landing near Lizia's position. Both FranXX face each other, when Conia puts her hood down and hugs the red mech

Heliconia: "Zero! We were so worried!" Some pixel tears again appear in her eyes "You stupid idiot, don't you dare do something like that again"

Strelizia: "Ryuko...?"

Heliconia: "Don't... don't you dare explain yourself, little sis. (Y/N) and I know"

Strelizia: "I'm so sorry for what I did"

(Y/N): "Don't be, we told you, we understand that Zero Two" Strelizia gasps "What's wrong Zero-" I was cut off by a giant hand emerging from Gran Crevasse.

Alpha: "Wow. An instant reaction" The hand slowly leans down towards Super-Lehmann's corpse and Plantation 13. It descends crushing the plantation.

(Y/N): "NO!" The hand drags itself back, dragging the mass of cores from Super-Lehmann with it. I look at the remains of Plantation 13, no more City, no more hangars and other rooms, it's now just a spire with Mistilteinn still standing on top like a crown jewel. Nines meanwhile get back to Papa.

Hiro: "Guys?!"

Delphinium: "Hiro?" we sigh in relief

(Y/N): "For a moment I thought you all died"

Heliconia: "Are you guys okay?"

Delphinium: "We are but..." she trails off "Plantation is gone" I then connect with Strelizia via a secure link

(Y/N): "Seems like we'll need a new home, after all, right Hiro?"

Hiro: "Yeah, it seems so" Strelizia looks surprised

Strelizia: "You know about our plans, Darling?" Hiro nods with a hum.

Hiro: "More or less. I saw it in your memories" he smiles "As well as who Ryuko and (Y/N) really are. When I was in the hospital (Y/N) explained it to me" He looks at his partner "We will finally fulfill our dream about exploring the outside world, Zero Two!"

Strelizia: "I'm so happy, Darling!" I chuckle.

(Y/N): "Not even an hour after your reunion and you two are planning a honeymoon already?"

Heliconia: "Someone can't wait" she sings, while Strelizia looks at her

Strelizia: "Shall I tell Darling how much time passed between your reunion and your first kiss ever back in your times?" Heliconia blushes.

Heliconia: "Shut up Zero..." We all land our FranXX about 15 meters away from Squad 13 as they await on the ground by their FranXX. Walking out of Heliconia, I saw Zero leaning on Hiro's shoulder, deciding to be a good friend I jump onto Strelizia's faceplate.

(Y/N): "Hiro, let me help you"

Hiro: "Thanks (Y/N)" I get Zero's left arm on my shoulder while Hiro gets her right one. We slowly walk down Strelizia, Ryuko waiting for us on the ground looking at us as if we don't need any help. Soon enough we get to the ground and sit Zero on the soil, Hiro's hand not leaving Zero's as they keep them intertwined since exiting Strelizia. I squat down in front of Zero and give her a huge brotherly hug.

(Y/N): "Don't you ever scare us like that Zero! You hear me?" I chuckle as I feel Zero returning the hug "You like to make us worried, don't you, little sister?" I smile at the pink-haired girl. Knowing what I mean and remembering my talk with her a while ago, she smiles widely.

Zero Two: "I'm so sorry, brother. I swear I will never do this again"

(Y/N): "I hope so" I then hear a sob, looking at its source to be Ryuko "Come on, Ryu, Ryu, we're all a family. You're Zero's big sister after all" Ryuko runs up to us and joins the hug.

Zero Two: "Big sister!"

Ryuko: "Little sis..." I look at the sole man standing.

(Y/N): "Come on Hiro, join us. You're a part of it too" we form a group hug "Of course you need our blessings to marry our Zero" The two younger Parasites blush while I start laughing.

Zero Two: "Brother! Don't embarrass me in front of my Darling!" Ryuko sighs and smiles.

Ryuko: "He's joking, Zero. Hiro already did enough to get this granted, so" I and Ryuko turn to Hiro with serious looks "Hiro, Code 016"

(Y/N): "Ryuko and I as the oldest present members of (L/N), Matoi, and Frank family are happy for you to join them as well as to give you our blessing to marry Zero Two. May your love be eternal"

Ryuko: "May you two live in harmony and peace" I and Ryuko smirk

(Y/N): "Of course... we're expecting a lot of nephews and nieces from you two as well" team Strelizia blushes again. Zero already knows how to make babies and Hiro probably saw it in her memories.

Zero Two and Hiro: "(Y/N)!" I scrap my cheek.

(Y/N): "I'm joking" I look ahead, and Squad 13 is closing their distance to us

Hiro gets before Zero Two, trying to protect her. I and Ryuko get to his side, with our weapons ready. Zero Two covers behind us, while still holding Hiro's hand. The rest of our squad have confused looks on their faces. Then they all look at Ichigo, waiting for her reaction. She walks over to us and looks at me and Ryuko, then she looked at Hiro, and finally at Zero Two. I and Ryuko nodded and stepped aside. Ichigo kneels next to Zero and slowly reaches for her, only for Zero to flinch and look away. Ichigo gets her hand back, smiles, and tries again, this time cupping Zero's cheek.

Ichigo: "Zero Two... I'm glad you are okay" Zero slowly turns to look at her.

Zero Two: "You don't hate me?"

Ichigo: "No. (Y/N) was right. I let my emotions get the better of me. You are just an ordinary girl" She hugs Zero "One of us, an irreplaceable part of Squad 13" I smile, seeing Ichigo and Zero finally bury the hatchet.

(Y/N): "Amen to that" I and Hiro help Zero stand "Time to get back home" the twelve of us start walking towards the remains of Plantation 13. With only one thing on my mind.

'Stage 2 is soon to take place. Everyone saw through Papa back at the battlefield' I smile 'All I need now, is a little spark of rebellion which will start the fire to consume those bastards'.

A/N: 'This is the corniest and most stupid love confession ever. But it struck me as profoundly beautiful.' Man, what a chapter. Episode 15 is the best one, deal with it. This is the breaking point between the original DiTF story and what will be solely my work as we slowly start the Rebellion Arc.

No more sneak peeks

Kill la Kill belongs to Studio Trigger

Darling in the FranXX belongs to Studio Trigger, A1 Studios, and CloverWorks

OC's belongs to me

(Y/N) belongs to you (and Ryuko) <3