[ The relationship in question is a bit peculiar, as no other mother would be as willing to send their children into the war as Arecia seems to be, but Ace never knew any different. It's how he's lived his life up until now, and among the chaos she was one of the few constants that he could always return to. ]

And yet, your paths crossed here, as well. I'm glad for you.

[ It's a genuine remark, as the information certainly gives him hope. Also, it's not hard to imagine Zelda getting along great with other villagers if her welcome is anything to go by. He's spent years struggling to understand such bonds, so he finds her ways admirable, in a way. ]

Admittedly, this also makes me think -- what happens if one doesn't display the will to fight? Could they be sent back as easily as they came to be the chosen one?

[ Everything that the Crystals will upon seem to stay on the permanent side of things, but it's still a question worth asking. ]