"The voting will now commence," Dr. Zimmermann announced, his voice carrying the weight of historical moment. "Each delegation will proceed to the secure voting chamber individually to ensure complete privacy and prevent any external influence on the decision-making process."
I watched as delegates began filing out of the main conference room, each moving toward what would arguably be the most consequential vote of their political careers. The secure voting chamber was a separate room designed specifically for moments like this. It was soundproof, electronically shielded, and monitored to ensure that no one could coerce or influence another's decision.
As the room gradually emptied, I remained seated, projecting an image of calm confidence while internally fighting the growing weakness that threatened to overwhelm me. Without the System's support, my body felt foreign, diminished. It was like trying to operate a machine with half its components suddenly removed.