Upon their recapture, both children have their memories erased by the adults, explaining why they didn't initially recognize each other at the start of the series. Themes and Symbolism

The revelation recontextualizes the Strelitzia 's true power, which is unlocked only when the two pilots share a genuine, deep-seated emotional bond.

The flashback depicts a young Hiro as a rebellious prodigy who gave names to his peers (like Ichigo and Mitsuru) and questioned the adults' authority.

The fairy tale of a beast who sacrifices her wings to be with a prince mirrors Zero Two’s journey. It explains her obsession with the word "Darling" and her habit of eating sweet things, which reminded her of the candy Hiro gave her.

Moved by her suffering, Hiro breaks her out of her cell. During their brief time in the snowy wilderness, they share a picture book—also titled The Beast and the Prince —which becomes the foundation for Zero Two’s desire to become "human" and find her "Darling" again.