"So, how are you going to overcome the guilt, Doctor?" The voice of Voyager's most recent rescue asked as The Doctor turned. The Captain glared from her book, but said nothing.
"Is there any sure fire method on that Commander?" The hologram retorted, looking as the new arrival shook her head.
"The guilt of making a life or death choice, Doctor, is a personal thing." The tired voice responded. "I can see it though; you judge yourself every day, and it's something that eats your soul."
"And you think holograms have souls?" The Doctor evaded, wondering where this strange human would take this line of conversation.
"Doctor, I was once on a planet with my entire crew. My two best soldiers were separated, both were under fire, and both were important to the mission. I had to make the call on which one would be going home; and I lost my best friend." Commander Shepard looked at the Doctor, her green eyes seeing everything before responding. "Anything can make a choice, Doctor, but to feel the overwhelming guilt afterwards? That requires a soul." She turned away, leaving the holodeck to the Captain and holographic Doctor. "You have one, Doctor, and if you truly wish to honor that ensign, then don't let that guilt consume yours."