Universal Century 0096. Months have elapsed since the Laplace Box incident, also called the Universal Century Charter. The Earth Federation Forces send a team of investigators to the severed Axis, drifting beyond the Earth Sphere. Two civilians join the research squad: Arlette Almage and Danton Hyleg, both former Zeon and Neo‑Zeon engineers and test pilots. After infiltrating Axis, the investigators are ambushed inside a base that should be empty. The operation aims to uncover hidden threats and secure the Axis's cargo. Their encounter reveals a conspiracy Federation's history. Their investigation uncovers clues pointing toward a organization manipulating events. High stakes await.