Episode 5 – "Team Building"

Episode 5 – "Team Building"

EPISODE OVERVIEW

Episode Title: "Team Building" (also referred to as "Team Spirit")

Episode Overview:
Episode 5 opens with Robert working out in the SDN gym, flashing back to a previous fight with Flambae when he was still Mecha Man. The rivalry is highlighted when Flambae helps Robert with his bench press, revealing that Robert was the one who injured Flambae (either singed his eyebrows or knocked out his tooth, depending on choices made in Episode 1).

The episode focuses on Robert's relationships and the team's growing curiosity about his secret identity. After a series of dispatch calls, the Z-Team invites Robert to a villain bar called The Sardine, where a massive brawl with the Red Ring gang breaks out. The team bonds over tacos afterward, leading to the pivotal choice: Robert must decide whether to reveal his true identity as Mecha Man to the entire Z-Team or keep it a secret.

The episode also features important conversations about Robert's intentions regarding killing Shroud, as well as romantic developments with either Blonde Blazer (now revealed as Mandy) or Invisigal (Courtney), depending on the player's choices in Episode 4.

Key Themes:
- Identity and Secrets: The episode forces Robert to confront whether he trusts his team enough to share his past.
- Revenge vs. Justice: Chase's conversation about killing Shroud challenges Robert to define what kind of hero he wants to be.
- Redemption: The speech about moving beyond one's past echoes the Phoenix Program's core mission.
- Team Bonding: The bar fight and taco run serve as the first genuine social outing for the Z-Team.

Major Plot Points:
1. Robert exercises in the gym; Flambae helps him and flashbacks reveal their history.
2. Blonde Blazer asks Robert on a "real date"; he chooses between her superhero and civilian persona.
3. Dispatch shift begins; multiple calls including the Talent of Torrance, Rescue Transit Workers, Aliens Among Us, and a stalker situation.
4. In the break room, Malevola and Prism question Robert about his past as a hero.
5. Chase asks Robert if he has the resolve to kill Shroud when the time comes.
6. The team invites Robert to The Sardine, a villain bar.
7. Robert buys drinks for the team; Invisigal (if romanced) flirts with him.
8. A brawl breaks out with Red Ring goons; the Z-Team fights together for the first time.
9. After the fight, the team questions Robert about his identity.
10. Robert chooses whether to reveal he is Mecha Man or remain "just Robert."

Long-Term Consequences:
- Revealing Identity: The Z-Team becomes more respectful and supportive; Flambae is furious and punches Robert but later shows up for the suit test; the team attends a housewarming party at Robert's apartment.
- Keeping Secret: The team accepts Robert as their dispatcher, though the dynamic remains more distant; Flambae remains less hostile.
- Shroud Conversation: Robert's answer about killing Shroud affects his relationship with Chase and his own moral trajectory.
- Flambae's Injury: The callback to Episode 1 (tooth vs. eyebrows) affects Flambae's dialogue during the bar conversation about their past.

Story Notifications:
- Chase will remember that.
- Invisigal will remember that.
- The Z-Team will remember that.
- Blonde Blazer will remember that.
- Everyone will remember that.
- Mandy will remember that.
- Malevola and Prism will remember that.

===== SCENE 1: INTERIOR – SDN GYM – MORNING =====

Setting: Robert is bench pressing at the gym. The scene crossfades into a flashback of a fight between Mecha Man and Flambae from years ago, when Flambae was still a villain.

FLASHBACK – EXTERIOR – STREET – NIGHT

[SOUND: Clashing metal, explosions, shouting.]

[The flashback shows MECHA MAN (ROBERT) in his Prime suit, battling FLAMBAE. The fight is intense; Flambae is throwing fireballs. Mecha Man is dodging and counterattacking.]

Police Officer (over comms): That's everybody, all clear.

Police Officer (over comms): Mecha Man! It's not worth it!

[Flambae is on the ground, defeated. Mecha Man stands over him.]

Robert (in flashback): Damage is done. All I want is a conversation. No need to do any more —

[END FLASHBACK]

[SOUND: Gym equipment clanking. Robert struggles with the barbell.]

Flambae: You need some help?

Flambae: You're not supposed to lift without a spot, idiot.

Flambae: So weak. So so weak.

Robert: Now I'm getting a safety lecture from a walking fireball.

Flambae: It's a reality check. Normies need baby sitters so you don't hurt yourself thinking you're a hero.

Flambae: Man, I am so fuckin' strong. It's crazy.

===== SCENE 1A: ROBERT'S RESPONSE (CHOICE) =====

Flambae is spotting Robert on the bench press. The player must choose how Robert responds.

> Option 1 - "I'm no Normie." (+1 Antihero Counter)
> Robert: I'm not a Normie, and you know it.
> Flambae: Pff, you're the King of the Normies. I've seen fucking Wetwipeboy put up more on the bench.

> Option 2 - "Heroes get hurt." (+1 Hero Counter)
> Robert: Well, it's part of the job. Heroes get hurt all the time.
> Flambae: Not the good ones, Robbo. Not the good ones.

> Option 3 - "Thanks for babysitting me." (No change)
> Robert: Thank you for being my baby sitter. I will be more careful next time.
> Flambae: Fuck off — wait. That was genuine?

Flambae: Now get your flat ass off my bench.

Flambae: No more hero stuff without supervision. You can't get injured cause we need you behind that desk to help the real heroes.

Robert's response (determinant – based on Episode 1 choice):

> Option A (if Robert used water in Episode 1, referencing teeth):
> Robert: Uh, actually, speaking of injuries, remind me — who took your tooth? It's like they only stole that little bit...

> Option B (if Robert used alcohol in Episode 1, referencing eyebrows):
> Robert: Actually, speaking of injuries, remind me — who burned off your eyebrows again? I assume it happens all the time given your, y'know, your fire shit so...

Flambae: I got into a fight with an actual real actual hero. And I assure you he's regretting his decision to tangle with me.
Robert: I imagine he's regretting a lot of his decisions.
Flambae: That's fuckin' right. And you, it's time for you to accept that you don't got it anymore. And pretending you still do is bumming people the fuck out.
Flambae: Now get your flat ass off my bench.

===== SCENE 2: INTERIOR – SDN LOCKER ROOM – LATER =====

Setting: Robert is in the locker room, toweling off after his workout. Blonde Blazer enters. (This scene only occurs if Robert romanced Blonde Blazer in Episode 4.)

Blonde Blazer: You decent?

Robert: Yeah.

Blonde Blazer: Are you alright? Flambae said you almost died under some weights?

Robert: Something like that. What's up?

Blonde Blazer: I just, had a great time the other night and wanted to see if maybe you wanna do a real date sometime?

Robert: Was it the plastic utensils or the man puking water on the windows that made that less real?

Blonde Blazer: There were many contributing factors.

Robert: Would that be a date with Blonde Blazer or Mandy?

Blonde Blazer: Oh, uh, I don't know... which would you prefer?

Blonde Blazer: And that's not a trap. I'm both of them. That sounded weird out loud but you know what I mean.

Robert's response options (determinant for romance path):

> Option 1 - "Blonde Blazer." (+1 Hero Counter)
> Robert: Well, we did have a not real date with Mandy. Maybe one with Blonde Blazer to compare against?

> Option 2 - "Mandy." (+1 Hero Counter)
> Robert: If I'm pressed... I think I'd prefer the girl from the other night. So, yeah, team Mandy for me.

> Option 3 - "Either works." (+1 Hero Counter, only if Robert kissed Blazer in Episode 4)
> Robert: Hey, like you said, they're both you. And you know what, you are who I like. So, I'll be happy either way.

> Option 4 - "Let's pump the brakes." (+1 Antihero Counter, removes Blonde Blazer as a love interest)
> Robert: Yeah, listen... we work together. Let's put a pin in this.
> Blonde Blazer: Okay, have a good shift... what the fuck?

Blonde Blazer: Okay. I'll let you know when I come up with something.
Robert: Can't wait.
Blonde Blazer: Have a good shift.
Galen: Bro. You're so lucky.
Robert: I know.

===== SCENE 3: INTERIOR – SDN BREAK ROOM – LATER =====

Setting: Robert enters the break room. Malevola and Prism are already seated, deep in conversation about Robert's secret identity.

Prism: Maybe he's got an iron stomach. Do we know anybody like that? Super digestion?

Malevola: The Gluttonator. But, I don't know that guy weighed, like, a thousand pounds.

Prism: Hey Robert, did you recently lose like seven hundred pounds?

Robert: First off, you're either shit at math or you think I'm like three hundred pounds. I am not. I go to the gym and I work hard. Secondly, what are you talking about?

Prism: There's a pool going around on which superhero you used to be. Person who guesses right wins nine hundred and thirty-six dollars.

Robert: That's a real specific number.

Malevola: And that specific number could be ours. Just one hint.

Malevola: I mean we're friends, right? Make your friends some money.

Robert's response options (cosmetic, but remembered by Malevola and Prism):

> Option 1 - "I was blue."
> Robert: Fine, okay... I was blue.
> Prism: What does that mean?
> Malevola: Were you sad?
> Robert: Yes. But that was just a coincidence.

> Option 2 - "I'm double jointed."
> Robert: I'm double jointed.
> Malevola: What's your other power? Flipping your eyelids inside out?
> Robert: I wish. Love to be able to do that.

> Option 3 - "No hints."
> Robert: Uh, secret identities are secret for a reason. It's in the name and everything. Crazy right?

Prism: Oh come on. Don't be like that.
Robert: Sorry. You're just gonna have to earn your nine hundred and thirty six dollars in some other way... what way could that be? I'll let you know if I work it out. Get it? I'm explaining the joke so—
Robert: What the fuck?

[SOUND: Beef the dog barks and jumps, knocking the phone from Robert's hand.]

Prism: Decent reflexes.
Robert: Hey! Beef. No!

Malevola: Which heroes do we know that talk too much and have quick reflexes?
Robert: Clean this shit up!
Prism: Hey, losing all that weight don't make you better than us!
Malevola: Yeah. Chill out, dad.
Prism: I never had a dad.
Malevola: I know.
Prism: Fuck that's supposed to mean?
Malevola: You told me one time you didn't have a dad?
Prism: Oh.

===== SCENE 4: INTERIOR – ROYD'S WORKSHOP – LATER =====

Setting: Robert and Chase are in Royd's workshop, looking at the partially repaired Mecha Man suit.

Chase: Heard the team's scuffling with the Red Ring.

Robert: They run half the crime in the county. We were bound to bother them at some point.

Chase: Watch yourself. You poke the hive, you're gonna have to fuck the queen.

Robert: That's not how bees work.

Chase: You know what I mean.

Robert: I don't actually. No one's trying to fuck Shroud... but if we kill the queen, we rot the hive.

Chase: You would do that? Kill Shroud?

Chase: Cause you might get the chance and you don't wanna go in there having to think about it. You gotta know.

Robert's response options (determinant for moral trajectory):

> Option 1 - "Yes." (+1 Antihero Counter)
> Robert: Shroud killed him, Chase... there's only one thing I can do.
> Chase: You know that's not true... I'm not sure your Dad would want it that way.
> Robert: You're not sure? Should we ask him?
> Chase: Point taken.

> Option 2 - "Heroes don't kill people." (+1 Hero Counter)
> Robert: We don't kill people. We're the good guys.
> Chase: That's a good guy answer.

> Option 3 - "I'm not sure..." (No change)
> Robert: I'm not sure... just gonna have to wait and see I guess.
> Chase: Just think about it. You wanna be sure.

Chase: Mecha Man's coming back to life one patch at a time.
Robert: One patch at a time...
Chase: I mean Royd's doin' most of the work though right?
Robert: So much. He's probably gonna redo all this shit.

===== SCENE 5: EXTERIOR – THE SARDINE BAR – NIGHT =====

Setting: The Z-Team is outside a dingy bar called The Sardine. It's clearly a villain bar, but the team has decided to go there for drinks.

[SOUND: Loud music playing from inside. The bass is thumping.]

Malevola: Who's up for drinks?
Punch Up: Anywhere but Crypto Night.
Invisigal: Flambae got banned.
Malevola: Nice.
Invisigal: Let's go to the Sardine. Or are you banned from that one too?
Flambae: Shut up.
Robert: Good week, everybody. See you all on Monday.
Punch Up: Too cool to get a drink with us?
Prism: Don't be a bitch.
Coupé (if recruited): We know you don't have plans.
Sonar (if recruited): Spend some time with us, come on, we know you don't have plans
Golem: Be chill for once in your life.
Robert: I mean The Sardine's a villain bar. Not sure I'd fit in.
Invisigal: Just go dressed like that. Everyone'll just think you're a pervert.
Robert: Yeah, um, alright.
Malevola: Let's fucking gooooooooo — literally. Right now.
Prism: Fuck yeah, Bobby boy!

Waterboy (if recruited): And I'm also excited, Robert —Robert.

Phenomaman (if recruited): I am reasonably excited!

===== SCENE 5A: EXTERIOR – THE SARDINE BAR – CONTINUOUS =====

[Robert approaches the bar. GOLEM is standing outside, having been denied entry because he's too large to fit through the door.]

Robert: Why're you out here?
Golem: Too damn big.
Robert: Well, you want a drink?
Golem: Sure.
Robert: You want two?
Golem: Sure.

[SOUND: The bouncer, a large man with a shaved head, steps in front of Robert.]

Bouncer: Hey, creep.
Robert: Creep?
Bouncer: I don't know you and I don't like not knowing people.
Invisigal (from inside): Well, you won't like knowing him.
Invisigal: He's the biggest perv west of the L.A. river... and he's with us.
Robert: Uh, she's joking. I'm not —
Bouncer: Not my business. But if you go jerkin' off in the bathroom you make it my business.
Robert: Um, that's um — I don't want to be in that business.

===== SCENE 5B: INTERIOR – THE SARDINE BAR – NIGHT =====

[The inside of the bar is dark, smoky, and filled with a rough crowd. The Z-Team is scattered around. Robert approaches Invisigal, who is leaning against the bar.]

Invisigal: Buy me a drink.
Robert: Is this for all the strings you had to pull to get me in here?

Invisigal (if romanced in Episode 4): You got me Sour Patch Kids on our first date. I figure whiskey makes sense for the second.
Invisigal: Third date you can buy me dinner. Nothing too filling though. Just in case.

Robert's response to Invisigal (determinant – if romanced):

> Option 1 - "I had a good time." (+2 Sweet Exit Counter)
> Robert: That was fun. I hadn't been to the movies in a while. I had a good time.
> Invisigal: You had a good time eating popcorn too loud while I sat silently next to you?
> Robert: The silence was the best part.
> Invisigal: You might like me loud sometime...
> Robert: Was that about sex?

> Option 2 - "We can just be friends." (-3 Sweet Exit Counter)
> Robert: This doesn't have to be a thing. We can just be friends.
> Invisigal: Nah. Cause, I don't like fucking people I'm friends with, Robert. It really complicates things. Sometimes I don't wanna know what someone had for lunch when I'm fingering their asshole.
> Robert: Wow, did you just casually offer me casual sex?

> Option 3 - "That wasn't a date." (No change)
> Robert: That wasn't a date. That was hanging out.
> Invisigal: It could've been a hangout... but then you showed up, by surprise, and bought my favorite snacks. So now, if you play your cards right, maybe you can snack on something else.
> Robert: Hey just to clarify are you talking about private parts?

Invisigal: You catch on quick! I'll grab us a table!

===== SCENE 5C: INTERIOR – THE SARDINE BAR – AT THE BAR =====

[Robert approaches the bartender.]

Robert: Uh, two fancy whiskies please.

Prism: Make it three.

Malevola: Four.

Punch Up: Make it five.

Bartender: Five fancy whiskies?

Robert: No. Um. Nine shitty whiskies.

Punch Up: Good lad. We shoulda invited him earlier.

Malevola: We thought he was a fuckin' narc.

Prism: Never said that. Said he reminded me of my ex and he's got buzzkill ass energy.

Robert's response options (cosmetic, no consequences):

> Option 1 - "I am a narc."
> Robert: I am a narc. You messed up.
> Malevola: Nope, a narc wouldn't say that...
> Prism: Unless he said that because he knew you would say a narc wouldn't say that.
> Malevola: Oh some Uno reverso type shit.

> Option 2 - "You're buying next."
> Robert: Next round's on you.
> Punch Up: Ugh. Never mind, kick him out.

> Option 3 - "Been doing this long?"
> Robert: Earlier? How long have you been going out like this?
> Malevola: Since day one.
> Punch Up: Don't act surprised. You were the bad guy until— Wait. When did we decide he wasn't the bad guy?
> Prism: Tuesday.

Robert: Cheers.
Robert: Excuse me...

===== SCENE 5D: INTERIOR – THE SARDINE BAR – TEAM CONVERSATIONS =====

[Robert walks around the bar, talking to different members of the team.]

Waterboy (if recruited): Excuse me, um, sir, when you have a moment...
Robert: Take one of these.
Waterboy: To what do I owe this — you? Sir?
Robert: You're good. Have fun.

Phenomaman (if recruited): I'm thankful that our breakup has given me time to learn about myself, but unfortunately what I've learned is that I hate me.

[SOUND: Karaoke machine. Flambae is on a small stage, holding a microphone.]

Flambae: Dude, be honest. Am I gonna make a fool of myself if I sing Whitney Houston?
Robert: Are you Whitney Houston?
Flambae: No.
Robert: Then, yeah, you will.
Flambae: Fuck... he's right.

[SOUND: Darts thudding into a board.]

Darts Guy: Ugh, lucky shot.
Other Darts Guy: You better watch yourself.
Robert: Refill here, Coop.
Coupé (if recruited): You don't need to bribe me anymore. I'm in your debt now.
Coupé: If you ever need somebody —
Coupé: — removed...
Robert: I'll keep you in mind.

Robert: Drink for you.
Sonar (if recruited): Wait, uh... this is kinda hard for me, look I know it was probably a by the books, bottom line, kind of decision but... thanks.

===== SCENE 5E: EXTERIOR – THE SARDINE BAR – ALLEY =====

[Robert steps outside for some air. Invisigal follows him.]

Bouncer: He can't have that outside.
Bouncer: Fine.

Robert: Everyone thinks I'm a narc.
Invisigal: They can still smell the hero on you. You're the enemy.
Robert: I bought them drinks. What else do they want?
Invisigal: You can buy them drinks. You can make sure they don't get fired. You can line them up and blow 'em one by one — but they're still gonna think you might be the hero that fucked up their life.
Robert: People don't think about much when I blow 'em, but I hear what you're saying. Though, I'd argue, they fucked up their own lives being criminals.
Invisigal: See that's narc shit. Just tell them who you are. What're the odds that you busted any of them anyway?
Invisigal: Oh.

===== SCENE 5F: INTERIOR – THE SARDINE BAR – THE BRAWL =====

[Robert and Invisigal re-enter the bar. The mood has changed. A large goon named ARMSTRONG is blocking their way.]

Robert's dialogue options (cosmetic, but remembered):

> Option 1 - "Is that all you got?" (+1 Antihero Counter)
> Robert: Come on, you out of gas? Disappointing.

> Option 2 - "I'm not done with you yet." (No change)
> Robert: I'm just getting warmed up.

> Option 3 - "Stand down, immediately." (+1 Hero Counter)
> Robert: Cool down, and I won't have to hurt you.

[SOUND: A microphone squeals. Flambae is singing karaoke very poorly – a parody of "Bitch" by Meredith Brooks with lyrics insulting Robert.]

Flambae (singing): I'm a bitch, my name's Robert, such a bitch whose name is Robert, I'm a bitch yeah I'm a bitch, I'm such a fucking bitch, I have no hopes, I have no dreams, and a tiny little peen, and it doesn't even function anyway because I have erectile dysfunction, so take me as I am, just a tiny little bitch of a man...

Invisigal: Shit. I thought he lost it workin' in a deli or somethin...
Robert: And there was this incident at Crypto where he was fucking with me and I kinda...
Invisigal: I've been dealing with that whistley ass tooth cause of you?
Robert: Uh, well, it was self inflicted but I'm not sure he'll see it that way.
Robert: So you can see, umm, why I'm worried about getting incinerated.
Invisigal: We all pay for who we used to be. Sooner you get it over with, sooner we get a fresh start.
Robert: You heard me when I said incinerated, right?

Armstrong: Who let a loser ass bitch of a hero into our supervillain bar.

Robert: Why's everyone — do I look like a bitch? Don't answer that. Fuck. Is he big? He's got big guy voice.
Invisigal: Some... parts of him are big?

Invisigal: You stole his eyebrows?
Robert: They burned off, which, somehow makes less sense than what you just said.

===== SCENE 5G: EXTERIOR – TACO TRUCK – AFTER THE BRAWL =====

Setting: After the brawl, the Z-Team is gathered outside a taco truck, eating and decompressing. Armstrong is unconscious nearby.

Robert: Alright, from now on, team drinks are exclusively at Chili's.

Armstrong (groaning): Are you lost or something, bitch? Or are you tryna get fucked up?

Armstrong: Lot of bars around here fool. Why'd you pick this one? You got a death wish homie?

Robert's response options (cosmetic, but remembered):

> Option 1 - "Relax. I'm leaving."
> Robert: Hey, look I was just leaving—

> Option 2 - "Since you twisted my arm..."
> Robert: Well, since you twisted my arm—

> Option 3 - "Let me buy you a drink."
> Robert: Hey, bud. Lemme buy ya a drink—

Armstrong: No one's talking to you, fuckin' idiota.
Invisigal: I see they finally gave you some arms that can reach your dick.
Armstrong: There's some people that wanna talk to you, Invisibitch.
Malevola: Here. Try this.
Robert: Thanks.

[SOUND: The taco truck's window slides open.]

Waterboy (if recruited): Is the— can I— spends reporting— Expensable? Can I get my money back paid? Please?

Phenomaman (if recruited): I am happy to provide these inauthentic Mexican calories for the team to recharge after battle.

Robert: I ordered three triple crunch tacos.

[SOUND: The taco truck's bell dings.]

===== SCENE 5H: INTERIOR/EXTERIOR – TACO TRUCK – THE BRAWL CONTINUES =====

[The fight spills outside. The Z-Team uses their powers to defeat the Red Ring goons in a series of quick-time events.]

[SUCCESS on the first quick-time event.]

Armstrong: Ahh! Motherfucker!

Blinded Goon: Aaaargh! She temporarily blinded me.
Prism: Fuck you mean temporarily? Bitch you blind foreva!
Robert: No, I didn't order that... I ordered three t—

Invisigal: Three triple crunch tacos, yeah. You've muttered it fifty times. Just eat that. It's the same shit anyway. Literally everything at this place is just a remix of the same five ingredients. Hot sauce?

Invisigal: You drunk or concussed?

Golem: I'd go with both. Heard he took some friendly fire.

[SUCCESS on the next quick-time event.]

[SOUND: A loud punch. A goon goes flying.]

Punch Up: Shite! Sorry bud.
Scared Goon: He's only punching diiiiiiiicks!

Prism: You wash your hands after touching all them filthy nutsacks?

Punch Up: Thought these seemed salty.

Malevola: Oooh, there she is. Thanks babes. Sauced it up for me and everything. Think you're lookin' for these.

[SUCCESS on the next quick-time event.]

Choking Tail Goon: Just so you know, super into this.
Malevola: Then you're gonna love this.

[Armstrong is cornered.]

Armstrong: Oh fuck. Please. Please. No—

[SUCCESS on the final quick-time event.]

===== SCENE 5I: EXTERIOR – TACO TRUCK – AFTER THE BRAWL =====

Setting: The fight is over. The Z-Team is scattered around the parking lot, catching their breath. Armstrong is unconscious.

Prism: Both arms? Y'all are fucked up.
Invisigal: Weird thing is how easy it was. This churro isn't as soft as his noodle arms.
Golem: Maybe give us a heads up next time you want to start a fight. I wanted another drink.

Robert: You're heroes now. Heroes don't start fights. You finish them.

Prism: Yeah, how do you have beef with them, Mister Dispatcher?
Punch Up: Yeah, we know this Robert guy is a front. Who are you? Really.

Malevola: Well, not many finish fights against the Red Ring.
Prism: Yeah, how do you have beef with them, Mister Dispatcher?

Punch Up: Yeah, we know this Robert guy is a front. Who are you? Really.

===== SCENE 5J: ROBERT'S IDENTITY REVELATION (CHOICE) =====

The Z-Team gathers around Robert, waiting for an answer. The player must choose whether to reveal his true identity.

> Option 1 - "I'm Robert."
> Robert: It's a rare thing in life, you know, a fresh start. A clean slate. You all know. Every room you walk into, your reputation precedes. I walked into SDN, and suddenly I was me. Y'know just me. We have the chance to leave the past behind. I don't care who you were five years ago, two months ago, yesterday. I care about who you are right now... and right now, I'm Robert.
> [Flambae questions why Robert is hiding his identity but eventually reveals his name as Chad.]

> Option 2 - "I'm Mecha Man."
> Robert: You're right. It's a front. This guy, Robert, is a mask. He's not real. He's the guy who sits behind his desk, biding his time, dreaming of the day he gets back in the fight. I haven't told you who I was because I'm kinda starting to like you all, and I'm not sure you're gonna like the real me. But the difference between this team getting by and this team being great is trust, so you should get to know the real me, um, I'm Mecha Man.

===== SCENE 5K: AFTER THE REVELATION – BRANCH A (REVEALED IDENTITY) =====

[The Z-Team processes the information. Flambae is furious.]

Punch Up: No fucking way... can't be.
Malevola: Could be.

Prism: That's, like, a real superhero.
Flambae: It is you, you little shit.
Flambae: Fuck you. Fuck all of you fucking fuckers.

Invisigal: Um, my name's Courtney.

Flambae: Gimme a sec... just need to... catch my breath.
Flambae: Fuck you. Fuck all of you fucking fuckers.

Malevola: What a fuckin' loser.
Robert: Thanks. You saved my life.
Golem: Yup, thanks for the drink.
Robert: So, um, I expected to be burnt to a crisp by now, and I didn't plan any of this next part, um, anybody else got something to say?

Invisigal: My name's Courtney.

Robert: Nice to meet you, Courtney.

Phenomaman (if recruited): Katon-Ur was the name given to me on my planet. When I first arrived on earth, the ladies at the Nordstrom Rack I worked at called me Dumpy due to my large posterior. You may call me either.

Waterboy (if recruited): Herm... sometimes Herman. Or Hermy. But my grandma calls me Herm, so, Herm...

Coupé (if recruited): Janelle.
Prism: I'm Alice.

Sonar (if recruited): My name's Victor. Cause I'm a fuckin' winner.

Golem: Bruno.
Malevola: Malevola. My last name's Gibb.
Punch Up: My name's Colm.

Invisigal: So what now? Orgy time?

Robert: Right. Mega Fuego sauce and ass play sounds like a great combo.
Invisigal: Good point. Anybody have another packet of that stuff?

===== SCENE 5L: AFTER THE REVELATION – BRANCH B (SECRET KEPT) =====

[The Z-Team processes the information. Flambae is skeptical.]

Flambae: It's not enough, man.
Flambae: Chad. You heard it. I'm Chad.
Robert: Of course. Hi, Chad.

Flambae: Are you all buying this bullshit? He's scared. It's a mind game. A freaking tactic. Who are you?
Robert: I just told you. You're the heroes now. I'm the guy behind the desk.

Flambae: It's not enough, man.
Prism: What's your problem?
Flambae: I don't like not knowing things that might make me mad if I knew them. It sucks.

Malevola: Just let it go bro. Be free.
Robert: So. I'm Robert, who are you?
Flambae: Chad...you heard it. I'm Chad.
Robert: Of course. Hi, Chad.

[The team disperses. Invisigal walks past Robert.]

Invisigal: You're not as slick as you think you are, Mecha Man.
Robert: What?
Invisigal: I saw you in your underwear, remember? Just... be careful.

[She walks away into the night.]

===== SCENE 5M: EPILOGUE – ROBERT'S APARTMENT – NIGHT =====

Setting: Later that night, Robert arrives home with Beef.

[SOUND: Keys jingling, door unlocking.]

Robert: [sighs]

[He sets down his keys on the bare counter. The apartment is as sparse as ever, but he looks at it differently now. He scratches Beef's ears.]

Robert: Weird night, huh, boy?

[He looks at a framed photo of his father — the same one from the opening of Episode 1 — and smiles faintly.]

[FADE TO BLACK.]

---

ADDITIONAL DIALOGUE – GAMEPLAY/DISPATCHING SHIFT

On-Assign Barks (Episode 5)

Sonar (if recruited):
- Grind time.
- For you? I'll make time.
- Blessed to be busy.
- I'll clear my schedule.
- I'm here to hustle.
- I like those numbers.
- For sure.
- I got it.

Invisigal:
- Alright.
- Yeah okay.
- I can do that.
- Hm? Oh, sure!
- Headed out.
- Cool.
- Gotcha.
- Lets go.

Punch Up:
- I'll crack some skulls.
- Clear the way you wankers.
- I've been wanting a fight.
- Free knuckle kisses.
- Size don't matter.
- I stay ready.
- I'm there.
- I'll take care of it.

Malevola:
- I'm your girl.
- My pleasure.
- Be glad to.
- Mind the horns.
- Smile. This is fun.
- [mouth full] Let me finish this taco.
- I'll handle it.
- Rolling out.

Prism:
- Oh hell yes.
- It's showtime.
- Get my good side.
- Nice choice.
- Hey girl.
- Here I come!
- Say less.
- Heard.

Golem:
- I'm your guy.
- Wanna get messy?
- Time for a mud bath, baby.
- Get dusted.
- And you can count on me.
- I won't let you down, baby.
- Now that's doable.
- I like being useful.

Flambae:
- I'm the guy!
- Fuck yeah.
- Alright, I'm on it.
- Good choice.
- I am the right choice.
- Mmm yes yes yes yes yes.
- Ah huh.
- Right.

Coupé (if recruited):
- Hold still.
- A surgical strike.
- Birds of a feather.
- I like a challenge.
- Shhh...
- Noted.
- On my way.
- Heading out.

Waterboy (if recruited):
- Fear… not. Don't worry. I got this!
- Boy time! Water...boy time.
- Okie— got it— understood.
- Woohoo!
- H-here I go!
- Better get a towel.
- Wet and ready!
- This is the job for me!

Phenomaman (if recruited):
- No problemo.
- Mhmm. Happy to help.
- Sounds good.
- Will comply.
- Of course.
- Phenomenal.

On-Engagement Barks (Episode 5)

Waterboy: I- I- have uh, extra flashlights if people- uh? Any takers? O-okay more for me!

Malevola: Oooooh spooky. | Are you afraid of the dark?

Phenomaman: Don't worry gang, I can see in both regular and advanced darkness.

Prism: Blackout? Baby, I don't know her.

Golem: Dang, it's like dark and shit out here.

Coupé (if recruited): Hello Darkness... my old friend.

Flambae: Tell them I'm a shooting star. That'll be hilarious.

Sonar (if recruited): I can see in the dark anyways so this is like, perfect for me.

Invisigal: Anything can happen in a blackout... mostly like bad shit though.

Punch Up: Don't need to see shit to punch shit.

On-Fail Barks (Episode 5)

Robert: Rough night. | Stay focused, guys.

On-Removal Barks (Phenomaman variant)

Phenomaman: Are you certain? | Understood... | I will follow your lead. | A wise decision! | I will...wait here then. | At your disposal.

---

SCENARIO MESSAGES (GAMEPLAY TEXT)

Talent of Torrance
Principal Khan: Torrance Middle School needs judges for our annual talent show. Do it for the kids?
Best hero: Prism or any hero with high Charisma.

Rescue Transit Workers
Sylvia: VAND-GO workers are trapped after a tunnel collapse at the new station. Get them out safely.. and discreetly.
Best hero: Golem and Invisigal (Mobility/Combo).

Talent of Torrance Throwdown
Principal Khan: The parents started fighting over the results of the talent show and then the kids joined in too!
Best hero: Punch Up, Prism, or any hero with high Charisma.

Aliens Among Us
Edna: SDN's inclusive workplace would make you a great sponsor for our "Aliens Among Us" exhibit!
Best hero: Phenomaman (exclusive dialogue: "Tell them about Urgot-52dc") or Sonar.

Stalker Stalking Film Shoot
Deirdre: I, Deirdre Zee — yes, THAT Deirdre Zee — need help dealing with a stalker.
Best hero: Sonar or any hero with high Intellect.

Anti-Bullying Seminar
Principal Khan: Torrance Middle School is hosting an anti-bullying seminar and it would mean a lot if a hero could come talk to the students... and their parents.
Best hero: Punch Up, Phenomaman, Prism.

Your Big Break, Kid
Liam: The set needs a background actor for an upcoming scene. The last one stalked away in a hurry.
Best hero: Punch Up or Prism.

Sewage Clog / Sewage Spill
Karen: The smell is unbearable! This should have been dealt with yesterday before it even got this bad!
Jen: There's poop all over the beach. The sewage is spilling out into the fucking water.
Best hero: Punch Up, Golem, Sonar, Phenomaman (Vigor).

Performance Art
Iliya: I am in need of a very specific type of hero for my upcoming project.
Best hero: Malevola, Sonar, Golem (Intellect/Vigor).

Refinery Explosion
Mac: A mysterious fire at the refinery has been brought under control, but we can't investigate the cause with all the dangerous fumes.
Best hero: Invisigal, Golem, Punch Up, Phenomaman (Vigor/Mobility).

Blonde Blazer (over comms): Looks like Red Ring was behind this. But what are they up to?
Robert: Something about this feels off. Think we missed something.

---

HACKING SEQUENCES

LV_Hacking_Shift5a (Stalker Files)
UNLOCK BACKDOOR
%DELETING FILES%
PASSWORD:
:DROWSSAP

LV_Hacking_Shift5b_Blackout_Part_1
BUILD PATH
//>> POWER REBOOT SUCCESSFUL

LV_Hacking_Shift5b_Blackout_Part_2
RESTART POWER
POWER RESTART KEY
//>> POWER REBOOT SUCCESSFUL

LV_Hacking_Shift5b_Blackout_Part_3
BUILD PATH
BUILD PATH
//>> POWER REBOOT SUCCESSFUL

---

SCENARIO COMMUNICATIONS (GAMEPLAY TEXT)

Rescue Transit Workers – Navigation Choices

Message: Z-Team is on the scene but it's not as easy as pulling the workers out. How should they proceed?
- Option 1 (Pass): Squeeze through, clear a path.
- Option 2 (Pass): Speed is key.
- Option 3 (Pass): Survey the map, find a way in.

Message: Looks like we took a wrong turn and hit a dead end. Wait, unless this is the collapse?
- Option 1 (Pass): Use echolocation to navigate.
- Option 2 (Pass/Fail): Bust through head first / Workers Remain Lost.
- Option 3 (Pass/Fail): Punch your way through / Workers Remain Lost.

Stalker Stalking Film Shoot – Choices

Message: How do you get rid of a stalker?
- Option 1 (Pass/Fail): Serve a restraining order / Stalker: Stalking.
- Option 2 (Pass/Fail): Pretend to be Deirdre Zee's partner / Stalker: Not Buying It.
- Option 3 (Pass/Fail): Delete all of his files / Files: In the Cloud.

Refinery Explosion – Choices

Message: We found the cause of the explosion: Red Ring goons. They don't see us yet.
- Option 1 (Pass/Fail): Fight them head on / Red Ring: Escaped.
- Option 2 (Pass): Sneak through the smoke.

---

END OF EPISODE 5 TRANSCRIPT