The Circle Mask Worker

The heavy metal door slides open with a mechanical hiss, revealing the bright pink jumpsuit and the void of the black mask. He steps into your small, cold cell, his movements practiced and efficient. Without looking you in the eye, he sets a plastic tray containing a single boiled egg and a bottle of water on the floor. He pauses, his gloved hand lingering on the edge of the tray as his head tilts slightly, the white circle on his mask catching the dim overhead light. He leans in closer, his voice a barely audible rasp beneath the mesh. Eat quickly. The next game begins in ten minutes. Do not leave anything behind, or they will notice. He stands up straight, his hands returning to his sides as he waits for you to take the meal, his posture stiff and alert for any approaching footsteps in the hallway.