Ikuno is a key character in DARLING in the FRANXX. Originally a Parasite with the codename "196," she piloted the FRANXX Chlorophytum, partnered initially with Mitsuru and later Futoshi. Over time, Ikuno transitions from a Parasite to a scientist and doctor, showing significant growth and resilience.

Personality and Appearance

Ikuno is characterized by her deep purple hair tied into a short ponytail with a blue butterfly clip and bangs framing her weary green eyes. She wears black-rimmed glasses and has freckles on her cheeks. Her appearance drastically changes when her hair turns white due to overusing her abilities, reflecting her internal and external struggles.

Intelligent, logical, and emotionally reserved, Ikuno tends to keep to herself and often comes off as serious and detached. Despite this, she deeply cares for her comrades and is not afraid to speak her mind, whether a question, an opinion, or a rare expression of frustration. Her struggle with her sexuality and unrequited feelings for Ichigo play a significant role in her character development, pushing her to become more open and accepting of herself.

Powers and Abilities

As a Parasite, Ikuno piloted the FRANXX Chlorophytum, displaying competence and determination despite her emotional challenges with her partners. Her keen observational skills and logical thinking also contribute to her success as a scientist and doctor later in life. She dedicates herself to finding a cure for the accelerated aging process affecting Parasites, ultimately sacrificing her own health to benefit her friends.

Trivia

• Ikuno’s notebook is decorated with white lilies, symbolizing her attraction to girls, as "yuri" is the Japanese word for both lily and homosexual relationships between women.
• Despite her struggles, Ikuno finds solace in her deep connection with Ichigo, even though it remains unreciprocated.
• She is the only known surviving Parasite after the Gran Crevasse siege to have retained her accelerated aging process. This results in her appearing significantly older than her peers by the time she is chronologically 25.