[ Ace senses her uncertainty, which in many ways seems to surpass his own. Years at the academy have taught him not to let doubt evolve into grief, or else you'll end up watching the task in front of you slip through your fingers.

Yes, there's a glimpse of loneliness that shines through when he occasionally averts his gaze, but in his spirit, he's eager not to let any hope perish. ]

It's all right, it was my decision to answer your question, after all. [ He flashes her a smile. ] Just as it was ours to follow that path. Of course, I want to know what's become of our efforts, but I will await the day I can see my siblings again, if that's what it takes.

[ And her listening is an aid in itself, just that is enough for him. He chooses his next question rather carefully. ]

You said you had a brother, too, correct?