Tuvok had been rather surprised when Lieutenant Paris had said he would rather have him as a councilor then Commander Chakotay. Most humans would prefer another human as a counselor than a Vulcan. But then, the Lieutenant�s relationship with the commander had been rather rocky in the past. Perhaps that had something to do with it. Nevertheless, he found himself rather glad Lieutenant Paris had chosen him. He was rather curious about what was wrong with him, although he would never admit it.

�Tuvok?�

�Yes?�

�Are you�re parents still alive?�

�Very much so.�

�What are they like?�

Tuvok raised one eyebrow, but went along with Tom�s request, �My mother is a botanist and teacher, my father is a scientist, he studies geology.�

�Do you love them?�

�Love is an emotion, however I do care about them yes.�

�Do they care about you?�

�Of course.�

�Hmmmm. Any siblings?�

�One, a sister.�

�I have two sisters. I�m the eldest.�

�Interesting.�

�They�re always complaining I�m over protective of them.�

�Are you?�

�Yes. I have to be. Father�s busy a lot and they were too young to remember Mom very well. Someone has to take care of them.�

�Your mother died when you were young?�

�Yes, when I was 7. Father took it badly. She died in an accident.�

�What kind of accident?� Tom didn�t respond. �Lieutenant?�

Tom was sitting with his legs against his chest, staring into space, face blank.