Ep 3. The Fair Sword, Mary Kikakujo

In Armed Girl's Machiavellism season 1 episode 3 entitled "The Fair Sword, Mary Kikakujo," the audience is introduced to a new character named Mary Kikakujo. Mary is the student council treasurer and has a reputation as one of the strongest swordsmen in the school. In the episode, Nomura faces off against Mary in a duel, eager to prove himself against another skilled swordsman.

The episode begins with Nomura challenging Mary to a duel, much to the surprise of the other students. Mary initially declines his request, but eventually agrees to the duel after Nomura's persistence. The two begin their duel with a series of quick and precise attacks, with neither gaining the upper hand.

As the duel wears on, Mary starts to show her strength as a swordsman. She is quick and efficient, easily dodging and blocking Nomura's attacks. Nomura becomes frustrated, feeling as though he is not improving as a swordsman. However, Mary tells him that he is improving and recommends he change his sword technique to better suit his strengths.

Nomura takes Mary's advice and switches to a more unorthodox sword technique, much to the surprise of the other students. Despite this, Mary manages to overpower Nomura, but he refuses to give up. Nomura continues to battle against Mary with all his might, refusing to be defeated.

In the end, the two swordsman call a truce, acknowledging each other's strength and skill. The episode ends with Nomura determined to continue improving as a swordsman and to one day defeat Mary.

Overall, "The Fair Sword, Mary Kikakujo" is a thrilling episode that showcases the intense sword fights that this anime is known for. Mary's introduction adds depth to the show's character roster and keeps the audience invested in the story and the world of Armed Girl's Machiavellism.