The disappearance of the Spearhead Squadron beyond the horizon does little to conceal the intensity of the Republic of San Magnolia's relentless propaganda. Vladilena Milizé continues to serve as "Handler One," commanding yet another dehumanized 86th squadron in the ongoing war against the Legion. On the Western Front, Shinei Nouzen and his squad are quarantined at a military base under the control of the Federal Republic of Giad, formerly the Giadian Empire. The newly established government grants the rescued Eighty-Six full citizenship and freedom. Housed by President Ernst Zimmerman himself, the group meets his adoptive daughter and the last Empress, Augusta Frederica Adel-Adler. However, amidst the calm of this tender society, Shinei and his team feel that their purpose lies on the battlefield. Before long, they find themselves once again in the midst of the Legion's onslaught as part of the Federacy's Nordlicht Squadron, accompanied by Augusta Frederica. But, as history repeats itself, they realize that regardless of the side, death and pain on the front lines are the only comfort they know.