Chapter 1

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As a security officer Tuvok had access to any crew member's quarters. He never abused this authority, using it only in an emergency. This seemed to be such an incident. Chief engineer B'Elanna Torres reported that one of her crew, a woman named Susan, had not reported for her shift. The ship's computer said that Susan was still in her quarters, but she was not responding to her com. Thus Tuvok went into Susan's quarters to make certain she was okay. But when Tuvok entered, Susan was dead, a phaser was still in her hand. This might be a suicide, but Tuvok would investigate to be certain. Within 15 minutes the doctor was performing an autopsy, and Tuvok was questioning B'Elanna.

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Tuvok: Can you think of any reason why she would take her own life?

B'Elanna: She wouldn't commit suicide. She joined the Maquis because her son lived on the border, it was about protecting him. Susan wouldn't kill herself if there was a chance she could see her son again.

Tuvok: That is a subjective statement. But until the doctor confirms it, one way or the other, I will investigate. Have you noticed any change in her behavior recently?

B'Elanna: After we learned of the Maquis' defeat two years ago, she did volunteer for extra work, more away missions. She wanted to have a good record for if we ever returned to Earth.

Tuvok: I have noticed a similar trend amongst the former Maquis. Is there anything more recent?

B'Elanna: Nothing comes to mind.

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At this point Neelix, the ship's unofficial moral officer, interjected, with some news.

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Neelix; I don't know if this is relevant, but I did notice something.

Tuvok: Please go on mr Neelix.

Neelix: Yesterday was her son's birthday. Susan asked me to make her blueberry pancakes to celebrate. After she finished this meal I saw her talking to a vulcan woman.

B'Elanna: T'Pol?

Neelix: Yes. I couldn't hear what they were saying, but Susan seemed a little agitated by the conversation.

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Tuvok didn't know if this conversation was in any way connected to Susan's death, but it was as good a place as any to start the investigation.