Seeing how dissatisfied the others were with 004, 002 could only ask, "003, 006, what do you think?"
003 said, "I only joined recently. I don't know 004 nearly as well as you do, so I'll abstain from the death vote."
006 sounded even more helpless. "This is my first meeting. I haven't even introduced myself yet, and I don't know anyone except 002. How am I supposed to vote? Casting a vote would be irresponsible toward everyone. I can only abstain!"
002 considered it for a moment, then said, "This needs the support of at least one of either 000 or 001. I'll ask them and give everyone an answer in a couple of days."
005 interrupted, "No need to wait a couple of days. 002, contact them right now."
"Now? I can't reach either of them right now."
"I can."
As soon as 005 finished speaking, intermittent signal tones came from his projection screen.
Before long, a hoarse voice sounded on the other end.
"Hello, 005. What is it?"
"001, just letting you know we're holding a death vote."
"A death vote? For whom? 004?"
"Impressive. You knew without me even saying it. That's right, it's a death vote for 004."
001 fell silent for a moment, then said, "On this matter, I agree with 007. 007 can speak for me. Also, I told you not to call me unless it concerns that person."
"All right, understood."
"Beep, beep, beep-"
005 hung up.
Clearly, 007, Olof, would vote in favor, which meant 001 had effectively voted in favor as well.
Yet throughout the remote meeting, everyone remained silent, whether it was 002, who wanted to protect 004, or 005 and the others, who wanted him dead.
Countless thoughts raced through their minds as they tried to understand why