[ but that's the real proof of a soldier, isn't it? they're used to hearing what they don't want to hear. and they've still got to do something about it. they still have a job to do.

and shepard does have a point, does make sense while she talks. sam's no stranger to this way of thinking and he's also no stranger to thinking it himself. so as she talks, he does listen, does nod when he agrees, waits for her to get her point across without much more reaction. ]

And practicalities are being taken. There are some of us who are preparing for that point, and as long as no one gets lost in the shuffle of this whole world and it's political issues, then we'll all be fine. But this isn't a draft, and there are enough of us who will stand up when shit goes down. But it doesn't have to be everyone - I'm not a huge fan of drafting civillians, and there are a lot here- [ he means summoned. ] -who are just that.

[ does he plan on avoiding that possibility at all cost? yes. but does that mean he hasn't been considering it? no. he's seen what can happen when you don't plan for that sort of stuff. has seen the carnage it leaves behind.

there is something about what she says that has him...not laughing, exactly, but there is a small upturns of lips. a small smile. ]

I'm not afraid to do more than talk, but you have to try and talk, first, as much as we might not want to. And part of that talking, is this. [ the house, the conversation. ] So thanks for showing up to have the conversation at all.

[ but then she says nevermind and tries to change the conversation, and sam shifts his footing. his stance. it goes from speech and passion to listening and help, and when she brings up the memories, sam frowns just a bit. ]

You mean besides the fact half the time they weren't my memories at all?