Ep 3. Fighting Puppet

In season 1 episode 3 of DARLING in the FRANXX, titled "Fighting Puppet," the squad of parasitic pilots receives a mission to exterminate a mass of klaxosaurs. The squad consists of a group of boys known as the "Pistils" and girls known as the "Stamens." During their mission, they encounter a giant klaxosaur that they are unable to defeat with their usual tactics. While attempting to fight off the klaxosaur, Hiro, the protagonist of the show, starts to experience some strange sensations and begins to hear a voice in his head.

As the squad continues to battle the klaxosaur, the pilots of other FRANXX robots join in to help. Despite their combined efforts, they are still unable to defeat the massive klaxosaur. That's when Hiro's partner, Zero Two, suggests that they try to connect their FRANXX robot, Strelizia, with the prototype FRANXX robot that's been stored away in an old facility. The prototype, referred to as the "Puppet," was said to be unsalvageable due to its incredibly powerful energy source.

Hiro and Zero Two make their way to the facility where they encounter Dr. Franxx, the creator of the FRANXX robots. Dr. Franxx allows them to try to connect Strelizia with the Puppet, but warns them of the dangers that come with attempting such a connection. Despite the warnings, Hiro and Zero Two move forward with their plan.

Upon successfully connecting the two robots, Strelizia undergoes a transformation, resulting in a noticeably more powerful appearance. The squad of pilots continue to fight off the klaxosaur, with Hiro and Zero Two leading the charge. The massive klaxosaur proves to be a difficult opponent, but the newly transformed Strelizia is able to hold its own.

During the intense battle, the rest of the squad is left in awe as they witness the incredible power of Strelizia. Hiro and Zero Two display perfect synchronization, and their connection to the FRANXX seems to have deepened. Ultimately, the squad is able to defeat the klaxosaur with the help of the newly transformed Strelizia.

Upon returning to their base, the pilots reflect on the events that transpired during their mission. Hiro and Zero Two are left with a mysterious feeling, both uncertain of what just happened between them. Meanwhile, Dr. Franxx is seen in his lab, appearing very pleased with the results of the connection between Strelizia and the Puppet. The episode ends with the implication that there's much more to the relationship between the FRANXX robots and the klaxosaurs than meets the eye.

Overall, "Fighting Puppet" is an action-packed episode that not only delivers high-intensity battle scenes but also begins to unveil the underlying mysteries surrounding the world of DARLING in the FRANXX. The episode leaves the viewer with a sense of excitement and intrigue, eager to see what will happen next.