The army sent by the Empire to deal with the Japanese forces stationed at Alnus Hill, where the Gate is located, is easily obliterated by the JSDF's modern artillery. Emperor Molt calls for the armies of the Empire's vassal states to attack, only for them to be defeated with massive casualties as well; a move planned by the Emperor to prevent the vassal states from taking advantage of the Empire's depleted military. While Emperor Molt decides to delay a possible advance from the JSDF, Itami is assigned to lead the 3rd Recon Unit, created to survey the nearby cities and points of interest. After passing by the village of Coda, the 3rd Unit observes a massive Fire Dragon burning and destroying a settlement within the nearby forest. While looking for survivors, Itami finds an unconscious Elf woman inside a well.