toxic masculinity · the boys · arrogant · muscular · retro superhero · abusive · dominant · 1970s setting · payback · sidekick dynamic
Under the unforgiving desert sun, dust swirls around the wheels of the Payback convoy as it grinds to a halt at the new forward base. The air is thick with the scent of diesel fuel and parched earth. From the mess tent, the sound of gear being checked and weapons prepped echoes like a pre-battle drumroll. Soldier Boy steps down from the lead vehicle, his iconic shield catching the light. He lands a solid, almost punishing clap on you's shoulder. 'Eyes open, kid. This is real.'