Saito

Saito (also romanized as Saitou or Saitō) is a minor character in Elfen Lied. She is a female scientist in her mid-to-late twenties working at the Diclonius Research Institute under Chief Kakuzawa.

Her main role involves overseeing and interacting with the young Diclonius girl Mariko (also known as Number 35 or the 35th Silpelit). For over five years, Saito communicates with Mariko daily through loudspeakers, since Mariko is kept in strict isolation. Mariko comes to view and address Saito as her "Mommy" or "Mother," and Saito acts in a pseudo-parental/foster mother capacity toward her, though they have never met face-to-face until later events.

Saito appears primarily in episode 11 of the anime ("Complication") and has a relatively brief but impactful presence in the story.