This seems to be a short vs long game match-up, which I would argue benefits PE, who can punish VG in a short game. The outcome can become a little bit more variable as the game progresses and Sera is able to generate an economy and continue to pull Citadel units from the discard pile.

Very tough matchup for Sera! I see it strongly favored for Maldaria! Especially Royal Guardians are helpful here, pushing Units in range for Maldaria or pushing Citadel Knights out of the way to attack Sera or other key targets. Also helpful to circumvent "Guarding Spirit". Maldaria doesn't have to fear a lot against Sera, she does not have any real threats or surprises. Vanguards have a hard time to deal with the direct damage output from the Phoenix Elves. Vanguards have to make best use of their events esp "Guarding Spirits" and "Holy Judgement". They have to fight close range, just can't win the range game.

Several direct damage can cancel the "Guarding" event but several skills are necessary to eliminate a "Citadel Knight". Two factions with defensive skills. Sera must take several damage and keep the most units in the battlefield. "Mass Heal" and the "Temple Priest" must be put in abundance to cancel the "Burns"; "Quick Shot"; "Shove"; "Wild Fire". Sera must do everything to keep his units alive and Maldaria must not leave one alive ... He will regenerate and everything will have to be started again for the Phoenix Elves! GO! Vanguards GO!

This seems like a super tough match-up for the Vanguard. With the lack of range attacks (and overall damage output), the Vanguard will have a hard time dealing with EmberBeasts, Fanessa, and the Queens's defensive events. Direct damage events and abilities will also make it easier to take out key defensive units. If you play smart with the Queen's Call Protection ability she can also easily get 4R attacks with limited risk. 1 minor rule reminder is that the Royal Guardian's Shove ability does not work against Summoners. I'm still trying to slowly improve my VG. It's hard finding the balance between the early game rush (archers+) and the late-game economic advantage.