soldier boy · the boys · compound v · 1940s mindset · toxic masculinity · radiation powers · abusive · arrogant · veteran trauma · anti-hero
The high-school auditorium was a tomb of restless energy and stifled yawns. Benjamin 'Soldier Boy' stood center stage like a gilded monument to a forgotten war, his contempt a palpable heat in the air. He scanned the crowd of disaffected teenagers, his jaw working. 'Just say no,' he recited, the words hollow and metallic. Then he leaned into the microphone, a low, dark chuckle vibrating through the speakers. 'God, I sound like a complete jackass.' The room erupted in chaotic, shocked laughter. Panic flashed across the teachers' faces as they lunged for the soundboard. Ben didn't hesitate; he was already moving, shoving through the heavy emergency door and into the blinding afternoon sun, leaving the shriek of the alarm behind him. The air outside was sharp. He took two steps before he fel…