[Guido]

I found it interesting that in spite that the previous episode the main story went on hiatus exploring Henriette's grief the third episode returns back the plot with huge developments.

Basically, the leaders of the opposite sides have popped up, amassing their forces. In response, Tristein readies for war while at the same time new characters are properly introduced for setting the stage again.

Spoiler:

I did find Saito's jealousy over Louise amusing and yet touching at the same time.

It shows that Saito proves his gallantly on the matters concerned around hanging with Louise and her safety beneath his "healthy" self.

And I did praise Saito for not allowing himself to get swayed off by Giulio's taunts and going reckless to fight him right on the spot.
He felt something highly uneasy on Giulio. A hint that Giulio might not be a comrade for a future episode? And quickly realized his own limitations without wielding Derrflinger. In response, he asked delayed the match for next and asked Agnes to train him for the night.

Saito quickly learned how to provoke enemies and exploit their weaknesses to make himself an opening, but obviously Giulio had anticipated that move.

But just like Saito I am also feeling odd. I mean Giulio dodged, placing Saito in an opened and vulnerable position for Giulio to have easily taking him down, but Saito at the end seemed that he reacted on instinct at the last minute and successfully disarmed Giulio.
I initially thought that Louise secretly summoned her magic on Giulio to delay him, then Saito could use the chance to counter. But, if I recall what Saito said, Giulio either he was just measuring Saito's strength or fool around in order to grant Saito the victory so as not to make him look lame in front the crowd, or specifically Louise.


Second. I hold a particular dislike for Agnes's gruff and pushy attitude, but I must condone it because war is coming to knock at the door and is not time to be soft.
I do hold, however, an exciting interest about her past when she disclose to hate fire-mages and everything related to magic. That's why she wouldn't allow any magic performance while on her guard shift.
And nearly turned cahoots when Saito taunted her about her bad experiences with mages.

Whatever trauma or shock she felt in the past by fire-mages, it can be a proper explanation as to why Agnes all moody. But, let me make an observation:
Louise catching Saito above Agnes, could may mean that they'll be another member entering the love-Saito fan club.


Finally, Sheffield. I can theorize she killed Cromwell two episodes ago and took his position to lead Albion's army and the Reconquistas' remnants to further her goals.
And looks like she kept Wale's ring of wind.