Quoted me a lot.
On hard mode axe users are even more dangerous for him because of the disabled weapon triangle.
If he has an A-support with Leo, he can get +3 in defense. If he has at least 10 defense and decent HP he can take two hits by soldiers with steel lances without any problems. On hard mode Edward is easier to train than Nolan, because he can be get problems even in early game, if his strength and speed don't rise quickly.
Her strength growth is not very good so the assassin class is the better choice for her thanks to the silencer skill.