The Free Planets Alliance counters the Galactic Imperial Navy's advance in the Astarte Starzone, still divided into the 2nd, 4th, and 6th Fleets to surround the latter on three sides. The Alliance top brass are certain that their victory is assured.
After its defeat at the Battle of Astarte, the Free Planets Alliance Navy returns to the planet Heinessen. A memorial service is held for the Alliance soldiers who died in the battle, but according to Rear Admiral Caselnes it's just a political show.
A High Council vote determines that the Free Planets Alliance will invade the Galactic Empire. Meanwhile, after Yang's resignation is rejected by Chief Sithole, he visits a restaurant with Julian and runs in to Frederica Greenhill.
