Question about War Mode challenge

[Artur914251]

I played on a hardcore realm and took War Mode challenge for the rewards and title. After leveling up, I planned to continue playing on a PVE realm. I didn't survive to level 60 and died at level 55. I went through the Dark Portal and wasn't given any realm choice... my character was automatically transferred to a PVP realm.

Is this normal behavior? Is this how it's supposed to be?
Why aren't players able to choose their realm?
If I take the War Mode challenge, will I automatically be unable to play on a PVE realm?

P.S. I only want to play on a PVE realm because it has a much higher online players.