There was already a multi page debate about the Sundering/Murdering difference and unfortunately, because of people's mindsets there's no definite conclusion that what happened wasn't as bad even if technically not the same thing.

So the problem arises when you argue from the standpoint as not being the "same thing" it's usually to say "Sundering is a much worse crime than being dead" and that's where that viewpoint makes things murky like "Rape is less bad than murder"

And while I'm hand wringing to make that analogy because "Well it's just a video game" this is where I think culturally how it comes across to people it's problematic in story telling and debates to say "sundering is less bad mmkay"?

Especially if there's no solid conclusion every life in existence was okay with sundering over the attempt of being sacrificed without their consent.

The only bonus for Sundering at this point is the opportunity to become "non sundered" the other one is if Sundering was a consequential option.

Keep in mind I get what the story is trying to "do" in the sense of setting up the good/bad, but I think has a hit or miss because of what I see in debates due to an international audience and generation/cultural aspects in morality.

Anyways, in terms of finalizing the Ascian/Hydaelyn/Zodiark story arc, I'd agree with previous posts it would make a great circular arc if there was a larger danger that ends up with the Ascians sacrificing one last time because all in all it was them trying to save their star in the first place. So bigger picture scenario (other arguments aside).