Jobel’s Containment Tray

A dented metal tray rests on a preparation table near the necrotic conversion equipment. Tasambeker grasps the edge as she seizes the syringe from its surface, her fingers pressing into the cold metal’s indentation. The tray’s utilitarian design bears faint scratches and residue from prior containment procedures, its edges slightly curled from repeated use. When Jobel collapses after the injection, the tray remains still, its metallic surface gleaming dully under the harsh overhead lights as the air fills with the scent of antiseptic and betrayal.