The Tales of Sol 74 By Joe at3unit3@yahoo.com
This is a fictional story it is not intended to imply that any members of the Backstreet Boys, Nsync, or 98 Degrees are gay, or any of the other celebrities mentioned are homosexuals. If you are not old enough to read these stories do yourself a favor and don't get caught. The same goes for those people whose countries have these sites made illegal. And for everyone else enjoy
Captain Planet and related characters were created by R.E Turner and copyrighted by AOL Time Warner Company and Trademark by TBS Productions
Babylon 5 and all related characters and props were created by Michael Straczynski and copyrighted by Warner Bros.
Star Trek and all related characters created by Gene Roddenberry. Copyright Paramount
Transformers and all related characters, and props are trademarked by Hasbro Inc. Copyright Rhino Home Videos and AOL Time Warner Entertainment CO
He-Man, She-Ra, related characters, and props are trademarked by Filmation 1980s
Buffy, the Vampire Slayer, Angel, and all related characters created by Joss Whedon. Copyright 20th Century Fox.
Batman, and all related characters created by Bob Kane. Copyright DC Comics and Warner Bros.
X-MEN and all related characters were created by Stan Lee. Copyright Marvel Comics and 20th Century Fox.
To those who've been reading Tales of Sol. I want you to know that while there is sex in this story. That is not is sole purpose and yes I do hope the sex sense makes you all hard and gets you off.
Sol is an adaption from my childhood favorite show Captain Planet and the Planeteers, The cartoon showed us that the world can be a better place if we took a few moments to care for it.
Tales of Sol is meant to express hope.
It also shows how music can have an impact in our lives. While I don't know if my favorite bands 98 Degrees, Backstreet Boys, or Nsync have ever read this. They saw me through some of the hardest moments of my life and offered in their own way hope. To them, I say thank you.
I dedicate the Tales of Sol to all of my brothers and sisters of the US Armed Service past, present, and future.
I like to thank my friends whom I had the privilege of showing these chapters with. They helped with editing and inspiration,
John Rivera, Albert-Russ Alan Rivera-Odum, Derbe.D. Hunte Yvette Ortiz Samuel Diaz Jr for all their help in Making The Tales of Sol an enjoyable story to write.
And I have a few other names starting with the beginner of this universe.
James is the author of Tales of a Real Dark Knight. I still hope to reconnect with you dear friend and all the rest of this series.
Blake the author of Tales of a New Phoenix
Jeremi author of the Tales of Young Mutants
I am adding a few more remarks. I have entered into the 21st century of AI editing, I have been using various AI programs to help with grammar checks, clarity, and improvements to my story.
This story was edited with the help of GPT Workspace, Grammarly, Microsoft Copilot, and Quillbot AI software.
AI Use Disclosure: I used GPT Workspace to generate some text for my story, Grammarly to check my grammar and spelling, Microsoft Copilot to write some code snippets, and Quillbot to paraphrase some sentences. I verified the accuracy and originality of the AI-generated content and cited the sources that I used for reference.
References:
GPT Workspace. (2024, January 9). Version 1.0. [AI tool]. GPT Workspace Inc. https://gptworkspace.com/
Grammarly. (2024, January 9). Version 5.6. [AI tool]. Grammarly Inc. https://www.grammarly.com/
Microsoft Copilot. (2024, January 9). Version 2.3. [AI tool]. Microsoft Corporation. https://copilot.github.com/
Quillbot. (2024, January 9). Version 4.2. [AI tool]. Quillbot Inc. https://quillbot.com/
The Tales of Sol 74 Hawaiian Fun
Once back at the hotel, I discreetly tapped my combadge, erasing the radio frequency and officially closing the chapter of our volcanic adventure. The day had been filled with more than just the sights of Kilauea--there were also unexpected heroics, rescue missions by Sol, and a close brush with danger.
Back in the hotel, the members of the Backstreet Boys processed the day's events, each with their own takeaways. "Seeing you in action is still something else," Nick observed, a note of awe lingering in his voice.
"I'd rather you didn't have to," I confessed candidly. "I can do what I need to without the extra worry about keeping you guys out of harm's way."
AJ, always quick with a quip, chimed in, "And I plan to keep this face away from any natural facial treatments courtesy of volcanoes."
Howie couldn't help but seize the moment. "Maybe a little mud mask from Mother Nature might do you wonders, AJ," he joked, eliciting chuckles from the group.
AJ played along. "If I'm going to have a mud bath, it'll be the deluxe, not-so-volcanic version, thank you. I can't exactly claim damages from a volcano."
Stacy then approached, her demeanor showing a newfound respect, not only for my actions but also for Kilauea itself. "How did you find the trip?" she inquired, her gaze settling on each of us in turn.
"I'll admire Kilauea from afar now, thank you," AJ stated, his experience instilling a deepened regard for the volcano's power.
"It was certainly something," Kevin reflected. "To learn and witness the cycle of creation and destruction that volcanoes represent--it was nothing short of awe-inspiring."
Nick directed his gaze at me, his expression sincere. "Just thank you, Mike. For all that you do, for how you look out for us, and for never compromising your duty as Earth's champion," he said with heartfelt gratitude.
Each word struck a chord, an affirmation of the efforts I put forth daily to strike the balance between godfather and protector--an endearing reminder that every action ripples out to touch the lives of those I care deeply about.
Stacy carefully listened to the recount of our trip to Kilauea, hearing about how I, in my role as Sol, had intervened when the peaceful visit was disrupted by the volcano's sudden display of its fiery potential.
She expressed relief that all had ended safely, and her joy was evident that the day was not only exhilarating but also enjoyable for everyone. Yet duty called, and she ushered us to an afternoon practice session in a studio hired by Johnny Wright.
The rehearsal was a marvel of professionalism, with the boys' voices in perfect harmony. Surprisingly, I was asked to step out for a while. They were perfecting a special recording, a surprise they wished to keep under wraps. Naturally, I honored their wish for privacy, understanding my place as a visitor among them.
Finding myself with time to spare, I ventured down memory lane to Pearl Harbor, a place etched with history and personal significance. Encountering old shipmates, I basked in a warm reunion. Chief Petty Officer Shepard, a mentor from my Navy days, mentioned that he'd kept an eye on my post-Navy journey all the way to the Power Plant, expressing proud approval.
Not all paths from my past were easy to tread; the shadow of 9/11 still darkened some memories, a sentiment I shared openly with Shepard. His response was one of understanding and encouragement; the pride he held for my achievements was clear as day.
After mentioning my efforts in aiding Jake Morow--with the power plant and beyond--Shepard suggested extending that hand to fellow service members, an idea I embraced without hesitation. Exchanging business cards, we even devised a referral system aimed at honorably discharged sailors from our Command.
As CPO Shepard guided me through the memorial site at Pearl, emotions stirred, a testament to the historical sorrow and loss suffered. The presence of the souls on the sunken USS Arizona reverberated through me, evoking a profound respect that dwarfed the flutters of discomfort Sol helped me manage.
When Shepard noticed the shift in my demeanor, his concern was palpable, but I reassured him with a nod, explaining how deeply I honored those who maintained their eternal watch beneath heavy waters.
Understanding that it was time to return from my emotional visit to the memorial, I excused myself and made my way back to the studio. Upon my arrival, despite the ongoing rehearsal and Henry's insistence that they remain on stage, Brian immediately broke away and rushed over, his worry manifested in the tension of his embrace.
"What's wrong, Mike?" His concern filled the space between us.
As I met his gaze, the emotions I'd been bracing against cascaded forth in a torrent of tears. "I'm sorry, Luv," I managed, my voice a fragile whisper.
Full of compassion, Brian comforted me: "You've done nothing that needs forgiveness; just tell me what's going on."
The words found their way out, stumbling over the fresh resurgence of sorrow. "I visited the Arizona Memorial--my mentor showed me around, and--" I paused, choked up by the sheer act of reliving the experience.
The tears, and the story behind them, caught the attention of the entire band. Kevin, ever the anchor, queried Brian softly, "What's happened?"
Brian, tender and reassuring, explained, "Mike's just come from paying his respects at the Arizona Memorial."
The others gathered around, AJ and Nick taking a position before me. AJ's question emerged gently. "Mike, what did you feel over there?"
Drawing in a deep, steadying breath, I revealed, "Being close to those sailors, those trapped souls--it was overwhelming. The same way I felt when we freed those chaps from the train; it's all flooding back now."
The band united in empathy and sorrow, allowed the gravity of my words to sink in. Howie's exclamation was a stark acknowledgment of the shared grief.
Struggling for composure, I elaborated on the poignancy of the connection with the Arizona's entombed. "Among their pain and fear, there was also pride, hope--a palpable sense of duty and love," I confessed, the depth of emotion from the memorial still clawing at my heart.
Brian's arms wrapped around me offered strength, his soothing comfort guiding me through this storm of sentiments. "Those men are fortunate to be remembered by someone like you," he reassured me, his own voice touched by the resonance of the history we'd just revisited.
My equilibrium gradually returned to the tidal wave of memories ebbing slowly. "I didn't mean to intrude on your rehearsal," I apologized, conscious of the diversion I had caused. Brian's understanding calmed the lingering guilt within me.
For the band, though, my visit to Pearl Harbor was a solemn reminder of their own gratitude for every day together and for every song they were able to sing. In that studio, the mood may have been subdued, but the bonds between us had only strengthened--a collective acknowledgment of the past that shaped us and the present moments we cherished.
Howie's quiet question pulled at my heartstrings. "Who were those guys reaching out to?" There was a reverence in his voice, a genuine need to understand.
"They were speaking to the uniform," I answered softly, reflecting on my time in the service. "The same uniform I wore when pledging to honor those who fought for our freedom."
With a look of understanding, Howie reassured me, "You've got nothing to regret. We're grateful for the chance to rehearse, a freedom made possible by their sacrifice and yours. You're a hero and a friend, Mike, and you don't need to conceal anything from us. We're your family, and we love you."
Brian pulled my face gently towards his, ensuring our eyes met. "You've made us remember that our luxuries come at a high price," he said. "We couldn't do what we do without people like you, our sailor boy. We owe you and them everything." His declaration of love was open and unwavering, not dampened by our bandmates' presence. "You're my everything, Mike, and I'll never leave you."
AJ contributed his admiration as well, recognizing the uniqueness of my abilities. "Mike, you have a gift unlike any other. You honor their legacies and help them find peace. You're a wonder to us all, a superhero and a superhuman." His eyes reflected the profound pride he felt.
Nick kept his hand on my knee the entire time he heard my pain. A piece of his heart had melted. How could one person, one man, bear so much pain while remaining so strong and kind? "You owe none of us an apology, Mike."
"The amount of love that I have, that we have for you, Mike, is beyond words. You have quickly assimilated into the family we have created together," Nick sweetly remarked. Then he leaned in to give me a gentle peck on my cheek. "We are a family. Your pain is our pain, and we will support you as you have always supported us. Mike, you are not alone. We have you, and you have us. We will assist you in your healing, growth, and happiness. You are our brother, and we will never abandon you."
When they returned to practicing Instead of using their songs, they sang a combination of others to pay tribute to the sailors of the Arizona, and by looking directly at me, they were showing me that I had their love and support. When they wrapped everything up, one by one, they came over to me and hugged me, and I was beyond grateful. "I love you guys so much thank you," I said.
"We love you, Mike!" they all exclaimed together in a voice of unity. I felt a surge of emotion and gratitude for their support. After they got back up, I used their melody to heal my damaged psyche, and though I was still affected, I was starting to feel more like myself. There was only an hour left. I had to be reminded of a part of me that I swore to honor my fellow soldiers by doing what they were unable to do. When the Backstreet Boys finished performing, we were all in their limousine and had barely enough time to change, take a quick shower, and get something to eat before the big event.
As the Backstreet Boys finished their rehearsal, our togetherness was evident in our embraces. I was moved beyond words, grateful for their love and the melody they offered as a means of healing.
We eventually found ourselves at the concert venue, where the preparations for the event were in full swing. As the boys donned their Navy attire, honoring the heroes of Pearl Harbor, Brian's silhouette in uniform stirred something deep within me, and emotion washed over me anew.
In the darkness, Brian's voice reached out to the audience, bringing a hush over the crowd. The Boys spoke of sacrifice, heroism, and remembrance, touching every heart present, including my own.
Traveling to the location where the guys were having their concert ready. With a quick kiss and a good-luck hug, Brian departed with the others to inspire hope in the world before the concert began.
Together with Stacy, I took a step back and marveled at their talent and the passion with which they created their music. Brian led the way as they began with Quit Playing Games with My Heart. I would occasionally join in on their songs, and Stacy would giggle as she watched.
As the stage lights dimmed between numbers, a cloak of darkness enveloped the venue, save for my eyes, which could pierce the veil to observe the Backstreet Boys.
Brian's voice carried across the hushed auditorium, its clarity capturing the attention of the audience. "Ladies and Gentlemen, I would like your attention please," he said, his tone gentle yet compelling.
As the crowd's murmurs subdued, Nick took the stage, invisible in the blackness yet resonant. "We came to Hawaii to share our music with you, our fans," he began. "Yet, it's important that we also pay homage--remember the sacrifices that anchor us to this beautiful place."
Kevin's voice followed, a warm thread woven through the silent anticipation. "Beneath the waters of Pearl Harbor rest vessels that bear far more than mere cargo. Aboard them lie the valorous souls who, on December 7, 1941, made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we cherish. They were the heroes who stood boldly in the face of peril--guardians of liberty who gave everything for our tomorrow."
In those brief moments of reflection, the darkness transformed from a pause between entertainment to a reverent space where we honored history's unmistakable courage--a tribute to the brave hearts enshrined forever in the deep blue of Pearl Harbor.
The stadium lights flickered back to life, revealing the Backstreet Boys donned in the crisp regalia of Navy uniforms, a sight that stirred the audience profoundly. Perhaps it was Brian, standing there with such honor, that sent a wave of emotion cresting over me. His presence alone was enough to tie together the past and present, to form a bridge between those who fought and fell, and those of us left to remember and to live.
Yet, as I took in the sight, I couldn't suppress a personal admiration for the man before me. Brian, in his uniform, was the epitome of dignity and, I'll admit, incredibly attractive. The uniform fit him perfectly, accentuating his form in a way that couldn't help but captivate my attention amidst the solemnity of the moment. I couldn't stop looking at his ass in those pants and I wanted to run out and grab hold If it wouldn't cause an international uproar.
And then, as if responding to the wave of awe that swept through the crowd, the backdrop came to life. The screen behind the performers illuminated, depicting a procession of valiant warships from an era marked by both tragedy and heroism. The opening notes of "God Bless The USA" filled the air, Brian leading the charge with poignant verses that echoed the sentiments of gratitude, patriotism, and remembrance.
"If tomorrow all the things were gone
I'd worked for all my life
And I had to start again
With just my children and my wife
I'd thank my lucky stars
To be living here today
Cause the flag still stands for freedom
And they can't take that away"
As the iconic words of "God Bless The USA" filled the stadium, the screen behind the band illuminated, revealing my ship the venerable USS Carl Vinson seeing her projected across the screen filled my internal soul with reverence. Seeing my ship always made my heart sing.
The Backstreet Boys united, their voices harmonizing, blending with the melody and the imagery to weave a tapestry of solemn tribute and heartfelt patriotism:
And I'm proud to be an American
Where at least I know I'm free
And I won't forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me
And I'd gladly stand up
Next to you
and defend her still today
Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA
They all looked my way, the Backstreet Boys knew exactly what they were doing, when they saw the tears, they warmly smiled at me.
The whole stadium roared in supportive cheers
AJ started the next line
From the lakes of Minnesota
To the hills of Tennessee
Across the plains of Texas
From sea to shining sea
From Detroit down to Houston
And New York to L.A
Well there's pride in every American heart
And its time we stand and say
The convergence of the stirring lyrics, the powerful visuals of the warship, and the deep respect exuded by the band in their Navy uniforms stirred a profound response in the audience. It was a reminder of sacrifice, of the enduring ideals embodied by service members past and present, and of the unbreakable spirit of a nation united through trials and triumphs.
The whole band back together.
And I'm proud to be an American
Where at least I know I'm free
And I won't forget the men who died
Who gave that right to me
And I'd gladly stand up
Next to you
and defend her still today
Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land
God bless the USA
Together, the Backstreet Boys honored not only the heroes of yesteryear but also the legacy of those, like myself, who continued to serve under the same flag, and committed to the same cause of liberty and justice for all.
It was a performance laden with meaning, elevating the event from a concert to a commemoration of heroes and the enduring spirit of a nation.
I couldn't stop the tears of joy from falling these guys were so amazingly wonderful I was moved beyond words.
Stacy witnessed my response, putting her arm around me Stacy said. "They changed their plans after you returned from Pearl Harbor because they wanted to honor you when you left,"
It was a night that would stay etched in my heart forever, a concert not just of song but of tribute--a song for heroes, sung by the heroes in my life.
Stacy's observation was astute; the Backstreet Boys had indeed tailored their performance to resonate with my recent poignant experience.
After they finished, God Bless the USA, The screen went black, plunging everything into darkness, and with quick preparation, the boys were able to change out of their uniforms and into their typical stage outfits. Brian in his black vest was still hot as hell. I have to admit: I miss seeing my boyfriend in uniform.
AJ, dressed in a black mesh shirt, cargo pants, and a red cap, took the microphone. There was a pause so that AJ could say something.
He waved his hand backstage, clearly gesturing at me. I was not expecting this. I swallowed nervously. AJ's invitation echoed over the stage, and his words captivated the audience.
"There's someone special backstage. We have a dear friend who, like those poor sailors on the USS Arizona, putting his life on the line so that we could continue to sing."
The spotlight of gratitude was suddenly on me, and the sheer weight of the unexpected acknowledgment rooted me in hesitation. My role had always been that of protector from the shadows, not one basking in the glow of recognition. My reluctance held me still, even as the audience's anticipation grew, wondering who this mysterious hero could be.
The audience's chuckles mingled with applause as AJ left the stage and made his determined approach, his arm landing reassuringly around my shoulders. "Come on, Mike. This is our moment to thank you properly," AJ insisted, his innate charisma propelling us both into the limelight.
Encouraged by AJ's gesture, I allowed myself to be guided up, the magnitude of the moment magnifying with each step. As we reached the stage, the glare of the spotlights and the incessant snapping of camera flashes enveloped me--an unfamiliar territory far removed from my comfort zone.
Howie, always the eloquent speaker, seized a microphone, ready to address the crowd gathered for more than just music. His voice resounded through the stadium, imbued with warm respect as he introduced me.
"Ladies and gentlemen, allow us to share with you someone very close to our hearts--Mike Pennock. He's not just a Navy veteran; he's a beacon of courage who stood tall amidst the chaos of 9/11, providing hope when shadows fell over our nation."
The pride in his voice mirrored the honor in his heart, while the stadium resonated with the crowd's rousing applause--a community united in paying homage to one of their own. Standing there, surrounded by the adulation and gratitude of strangers and friends alike, a humbling sense of duty and service filled me, reinforced by the camaraderie of the Backstreet Boys and the collective spirit of remembrance.
Feeling the swell of solidarity from the people around me, I was deeply touched by the embrace of appreciation.
Then Kevin, with a warmth reminiscent of a cousin, approached and wrapped his arm around me. His hug radiated a kinship and understanding that only come from shared experiences and deep bonds over time.
Enclosed by Kevin's steadfast hold, the rest of the group closed in, enveloping me in a sea of familial affection--a group hug that was both a gesture of unity and a physical manifestation of their gratitude and care.
There I stood, a man often so solitary in my duties, yet now at the center of a circle of friendship and love, given freely and fiercely by these friends who had become like brothers--a moment in time marked by the truest sense of brotherhood and belonging.
Surrounded by my friends, the embrace of family, and the cheers of the crowd, I felt the full measure of their respect and love. Brian's hug enveloped me, and his whisper resonated deeply. "You're amazing; you're my hero. Then, now, always."
Their gratitude was palpable as they all hugged me, expressing their appreciation for my service and friendship. Soon they wished to involve me in their rendition of "One," a song chosen to honor the sacrifices of service members.
My light-hearted refusal, "It would liberate those buried in the USS Arizona if I joined you," I chuckled, adding, "but they would beg me to stop singing. You all have that gift; my job is to do the best I can to serve and safeguard it."
My comment elicited laughter from both the band and the assembly.
"We want you to stay here, at least, because you are our friend as much as a fan," Nick said as he blocked me from leaving. You sacrificed so much so that we could perform here. We can never fully repay you for everything you went through, not just for us, but for everyone here." Nick waved to the cheering crowd.
The raw emotion stirred by their tribute song "One" brought me to tears, a watershed of feelings that resonated with everyone there. The time inevitably came for me to step back, allowing the Boys to reclaim their stage and fill the night with their music.
Stacy's warm and supportive words added a layer of gratitude as I wiped away lingering tears. "Mike, you've brought a new perspective for them to consider. You've given them heart."
The concert continued flawlessly with the group's usual excellence, with my spontaneous hum-alongs drawing good-natured jests from Kevin and AJ. Despite their urging, I gestured humbly, signaling that the stage was theirs by right, not mine.
Their smiles, the shared moments, the music--it was a reminder that family extends beyond blood ties. It's crafted in moments of shared lives, sacrifices, and unspoken bonds. And that night under the Hawaiian stars, that family was everything.
The subtle, unexpected tremor beneath my feet during the final encore grabbed my attention momentarily. Fresh from the visit to Mount Kilauea, I knew that such quakes weren't out of the ordinary and the Earth certainly had its ways of surprising, transcending even my enhanced senses. No Ping from the Earth to alert me of any imminent danger, allowing me to stay vigilant without undue alarm.
The celestial tapestry of the night had shifted over the course of the concert, with the moon now a rising guardian of the darkened sky, casting a serene glow upon us. As the crowd's energy waned with the music's end, Brian guided us through the dispersing fans towards the shoreline, where the sand met the tranquil chaos of the sea.
As we walked together, the moon's ascent brought a softening light that complemented our tranquil surroundings. My gratitude towards Brian's actions and those of the band felt more pronounced in the moon's tender glow. "Brian, I'm truly grateful," I confessed, struggling to articulate the depth of my appreciation. "Thank you for everything."
His response came over the gentle swell of the tides. "Love, you don't need to thank us. We only did what was right--for you, for the soldiers, for everyone who's made our lives possible." Brian's affirmation underscored the extent of our shared sentiment.
The serenity offered by the beach was enough to fill the silence between our words. I made sure to express my enjoyment of the walk, emphasizing how proud I was of their performance and highlighting the ways the band's tribute had resonated with me and countless others. "You all were outstanding tonight," I praised, feeling the harmony of our steps on the sand and the rhythm of the ocean as perfect accompaniments to a day that had been a profound interplay of remembrance and celebration.
Brian's response to my compliment was a tender, "Thank you, babe."
He marveled at our surroundings. "It's so beautiful here," he said, taking in the expanse of the beach before casting his gaze down to me.
I echoed the sentiment: "Especially with such great company," I acknowledged, returning his gaze earnestly, with the starlit sky accentuating his features.
Brian's smile widened as he replied, "Right back at you, handsome," before planting a gentle kiss on my cheek.
Curiosity piqued, and I couldn't help but ask, "Did you save your sailor uniform?"
He thought for a moment. "Wardrobe might have kept it," he speculated.
I let out a playful grin. "You should keep it--you looked incredibly hot in that," I teased.
Brian stroked the front of his pants unintentionally, and I watched as a lump appeared. I would have gone to my knees then and now before responding, "Only if we can have a moment when we are both dressed as sailors."
The conversation ventured into playful fantasies.
As we were walking, I noticed a man in the distance approaching us. Even though it was dark outside, he seemed familiar as we got closer. I was certain I recognized the individual.
"Hey Brian, is that Rob Thomas?" I asked, a smile spreading.
"Rob!" Brian called out as the man looked our way. When he realized it was us, Rob's greeting was full of warmth and affection. "Brian! Mike!" he greeted, after ensuring some privacy and exchanging kisses on the cheeks.
Catching up, Rob learned about our concert and our adventurous trip to Kilauea, which he had seemingly heard from afar. "That sounded like Sol's handiwork," he joked.
As we conversed, a woman's cries for help reached us, her figure frantically gesturing towards the ocean. I focused my sight, adjusting my vision to pierce the darkness, and spotted a child caught in the surf.
Immediately, my instincts kicked in. I raced to the water, plunging into the chilling embrace of the ocean. Brian and Rob stood watch anxiously from the shore as I battled the currents. My plea for Earth's aid carried on my breath: "Mother, lend me your strength!"
With each stroke, the taste of salt intensified as I dove beneath the waves. If it was dark on the surface, there was no way a normal person could jackshit underwater. My eyesight adapted, honing in on the silhouette of the sinking boy. But as the darkness swallowed his fading form, doubt clouded my mind--could I reach him in time?
In that breath-stealing moment, all that mattered was the rescue. With the Earth's energy fueling my resolve, I surged downward, chasing the dwindling light of a life in peril, determined not to let the sea claim another soul. But, in the murky depths, all I could do was make out the silhouette of a boy falling deeper into the water. I propelled myself deeper underwater, trying to catch up with him before he went too deep. However, as the boy's figure was shrinking faster than I could move,. It appeared that I might not make it.
In a desperate plea, I begged Gaia to send me a miracle. Something emerged from the depths, swimming beneath the child. I thought at first that it might be a shark or some other predator looking for a simple meal.
The ethereal melody of the whale song filled the water. There was no mistaking the sound of a humpback whale singing; my fears were instantly relieved. As it swam closer, I was able to verify that the object was, in fact, a humpback whale. The leviathan swam beneath the boy, protecting him with its enormous head. A sigh of relief washed over me. I repeated my gratitude to Gaia. She sent this gentle giant to the rescue after hearing my plea.
The magnificent creature then swam up to me. I grabbed both the whale and the boy as the whale passed, and the whale brought all three of us back to the surface. The sudden rush of cool air hit us all at once as we broke the surface. The whale exhaled a breath that naturally dwarfed mine when I took a deep refreshing breath. The child remained limp and silent. I looked back to shore and there were a bit more people watching, holding their breath.
Placing my hand over the boy's heart and lungs, his heart was having trouble pumping and his lungs were filled with saltwater.
A soft golden glow emanated from my hand, working gently upon the child, coaxing the seawater from his lungs. Moments later, he sputtered and coughed, taking a deep cleansing breath. Oxygen was able to do its job and restore this boy to life.
Raising my eyes to the heavens, my voice carried across the waters: "Thank you, Gaia!"
In the dark of the night, Gaia appeared ghostlike; she was smiling as tenderly as the tide. "My pleasure, Nexus," she bestowed upon me before retreating back to the solace of Hope Island.
I turned to the humpback with awe, expressing thanks. "You've been a true friend today. Will you escort us to the shore?"
In response, the whale song affirmed, and the gentle giant navigated as close to land as its size would allow.
I bid farewell to the whale with a grateful pat and carried the child through the remainder of water. Brian met us, helping lift the boy to the safety of the beach.
Awaiting medical professionals, the collective sigh of relief was tangible, echoing under the watchful moon. Brian returned the boy to his mother, and they were swarmed by meds as they checked the boy over.
The mother, overcome with gratitude and relief, let her child be looked over, getting back on her feet. She took Brian's hand and thanked him over and over.
Brian stepped back, saying, "I am not the one you should thank, madam; he is," My boyfriend waved at me
The woman's voice was breaking with a litany of thanks. "Thank you too."
"It was truly my pleasure," I replied, but I made certain to include the other hero in this adventure. I waved my hand back out into the ocean, and the humpback whale was still visible in the distance.
"You should really thank the whale, madam," I explained.
Brian caught the gesture for the unsung hero of the night, his smile acknowledging my nod to our marine partner. The mother's confusion was evident. "A whale saved my son?" she echoed, disbelief shading her tone.
Affirming her incredulity with a gentle nod, I gestured out to sea, where our magnificent companion lingered. "Yes, madam. A humpback watched over your boy tonight. The real hero of this tale is that gentle giant out there."
The woman followed my gaze to recognize the whale's parting presence. With heartfelt thanks, she promised us her everlasting gratitude as she hurried to seek medical care for her son.
The crowd dispersed, Brian's arms wrapped around me in a heartfelt embrace, his voice filled with pride. "You were spectacular, Mike."
Rob, joining in our reflective moment, added his own sentiments, patting our shoulders. "You both were. It's not every day you see humanity and nature work in such harmony."
Brian laughed but then said, "It seems as if even on vacation, you are always on call," Brian said looking at me.
"Yes, it is part of my job as your security detail," I remarked
Brian got the message, "We couldn't ask for better security than you, Mike."
"I can't hold a candle to Frank, Bri," I smirked
Rob then asked, "But where is Frank? I haven't seen him in awhile.""
This led us to tell Rob about Devin and his role in hurting Frank, who was still on the mend.
Rob was now visibly upset that Frank was hurt saving the Backstreet Boys from a psycho.
Changing the subject to something more pleasant, "I was hoping to spice up the evening; that was my intent, not that I'd envisioned a rescue," I said with a laugh, infusing the tense atmosphere with lightheartedness.
Drawn back to the water, I watched the humpback whale bid farewell with a final majestic fluke slapped upon the gentle waves.
"Take care, my ocean-bound friend," I murmured softly, offering the whale a parting salute.
"What was that whale doing there?" Brian asked, waving goodbye to the whale too.
Rob, too, waved. "I must admit, this was the highlight of my stroll," he said.
"Well, I was not sure if I would be able to reach the child, so I called out to Gaia," I explained.
"Gaia sent that heroic creature to save that boy," I told them, pointing to the whale's fluke slapping water as a farewell.
We took a walk down the beach, the three of us. Brian and I were still wet, but Rob was relatively dry. We did not feel ready to part ways just yet, and both Rob and Brian kept fidgeting on the way back to the hotel.
The three of us looked at each other, as if we weren't sure what we wanted to do or who should go first. Brian was the first to take action. My partner was more bold than me, so he kissed Rob. Rob's look was surprised, especially when Brian put his tongue into his mouth. These two heated up immediately, and it was a pity they stopped kissing.
Rob was breathing very heavily, which I expected after that type of kiss. "Mike I sincerely apologize." Rob shook with fear as I walked up to him. I saw him wince as I got into his face.
But when our lips met, he quickly opened his mouth so I could give him some tongue. Rob deepened his kiss, wrapping his hand around the back of my head and attacked my mouth with his tongue.
Drawing me closer, we intensified our tongue dance. When another tongue joined in, and a hand made its way down to my ass, giving my left cheek playful squeezes, I knew that tongue anywhere; it was my sexy
Brian joining a three-way kiss.
We continued kissing until Brian broke away he was still panting heavily all three of us were, we were sporting major hardons, We could go without at least giving each other stroking each others dicks, at least we kept them in our pants, Groaning with the pleasure of Rob rubbing his hardon Brian said, "I hate for us to kiss and run, but we do have to get back to the hotel."
"I got to get back too, but we are going further next time we meet," a panting Rob replied. I was still caressing their hardons with my hands. Making it difficult for us to want to leave but since we are already planning for a future encounter of this level I groan,"We most certainly will,"
With much reluctance, all three of us ultimately let go. I made sure to circle the head of Rob's penis through his jeans, and the shiver told me he enjoyed it.
When the three of us eventually left the area, I turned to Brian and ran my hand down his pants, slipping inside his boxers to feel the tube form of his penis in my palm.
I kissed him passionately and whispered, "My little nymph," in between breaths. Brian groaned in pleasure and whimpered in sadness when I withdrew my hand, but we needed to return.
To be continued
And thus concludes this chapter. Sorry for the sexual cliffhanger, but there's more to come. In the following chapter, Guardian and the Backstreet Boys find themselves in the shadows of something deadlier than anything they have encountered. Can Guardian deal with it? Read to discover out.
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I also recommend the following stories it was because of them I got into writing in the first place.
"Tales of a Real Dark Knight" by authorjames
"Marvel Knights" also by authorjames
"Tales of the New Phoenix" by Blake
"Tales of a Superhero Band" by Leo
"Tales of a Young Mutant" by Jeremi
"Tales of a Thunder God" by Tony Justiss