The Tales of Sol 75 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 75
Sleeper Awaking
With the night still cradling us in its quiet embrace, Brian and I made our way back to the hotel. I cast him a quizzical glance, my brow raised in wordless question at his surprising boldness earlier.
"What?" Brian justified his behavior with a grin that expressed humorous courage. "I considered it, and apparently, so did you," he said smugly.
"There was considering and there is practically having sex on the dunes," I said.
Brian said, "I know feeling both your asses was certainly the best part of the walk," which surprised me. Brian caught on, "Mike, what is it?"
I replied, "Having fun with Rob was nice, but it wasn't the highlight of our walk, at least not to me; even that spontaneous sea rescue can't compare to being able to walk on the beach of Hawaii with you there, Brian."
Brian looked down at his feet; he even lost what little he had as a hardon, "Mike, that isn't what I meant, I love you so much."
When he looked back up at me "Mike watching you without even a moment's hesitation jump into the Pacific Ocean and swim out to save a young boy in distress was absolutely incredible."
I took his hand and kissed the back of it, "It was just the thought of us--you, me, and Rob--having fun that was too enticing not to do it," Brian confessed
A sigh escaped me, a mixture of amusement and disbelief. "That was certainly something," I acknowledged, my smile soft.
As the elevator doors slid shut, enclosing us in its private cocoon, Brian leaned in close, igniting a kiss filled with the fervor of our shared affection. However, our moment was abruptly interrupted by the lurch of the building--a minor tremor quivered through the hotel, halting the elevator, and evoking the all-too-familiar sensation of being at sea. I steadied myself and muttered, "That's three."
Once the elevator resumed its ascent, Brian's curiosity rose to the surface. "What do you mean, 'three'?"
"I felt the ground shake during the concert, and there was another before Kilauea," I revealed, considering the sequence of tremors we'd experienced.
Concern etched onto Brian's handsome features. "Should we be worried?" he pressed, seeking clarity.
I pondered his unease before responding. "Might just be Kilauea breathing--a volcano's exhale," I suggested lightly, attempting to quell any rising fear.
"But you mentioned 'three'," he remembered, latching onto my count.
"Small quakes are the norm around Kilauea," I said, keeping my tone even, hoping to transmit a sense of calm I didn't wholly feel myself. "Gaia would alert me if there was real cause for alarm," I reassured him, and us both.
Brian found some comfort in my words, yet skepticism lingered--a reflection, perhaps, of my partial disclosure, an abridged version of my concerns.
Silently, I reached out to the Spirit of the Earth with a mental plea for insight. "Gaia, what's happening?" I queried within the quiet of my mind.
The response came, veiled but ominous. "Just be ready," the voice whispered back.
I kept the message to myself, not ready to stir further anxiety in Brian. Instead, I resolved internally to be vigilant, to remain on the watch for what Gaia's cryptic counsel might herald. Whatever was brewing beneath us, I'd face it as Sol, as Mike, as Earth's guardian, entrusted with both her mysteries and her murmurings.
Stepping out of the elevator, the faint vibration of the tremor lingered in my mind, a worrisome omen of sorts. "Not a good sign," I mulled quietly.
Nick was waiting as we reached our floor, his concern evident. "Did either of you feel that earthquake?" he asked immediately.
"Yes, we were in the elevator," Brian confirmed, his voice steady, a testament to the unnerving experience.
"What's happening?" Nick directed his gaze at me, searching for an answer I hadn't fully formed myself.
I repeated the same explanation I had given Brian. "I'm not sure yet, but I'll check with the USGS tomorrow to see what they know."
Nick's response to my uncertainty was tinged with sarcasm. "Your reassurance is overwhelming," he said, though the glint in his eye belied his genuine worry.
"Sorry, I can't give you more right now." I apologized, the limitations of my knowledge feeling unusually constricting.
Brian, sensing the tension, steered us back to the topic of the earlier rescue. Even as others joined our conversation, his narrative didn't reveal the details I had shared with him in private about the encounter with the humpback whale and its link to Gaia.
AJ, always looking for camaraderie, suggested getting Rob Thomas in on the hangout, while Nick's mind wandered, envisioning less platonic scenarios involving the musician.
As the conversation unfolded, I excused myself, reminding Brian of the need to freshen up. In the solitude of our room, I turned to meditation, seeking clarity and calm.
Drawing my mind towards Kilauea, after my run-in with this volcano, my senses were still in tune with it and what I got was that despite its fiery core churning, it was somewhat assuring. The volcano exhibited its typical behavior, showing no signs of an impending outburst. "If not Kilauea, then where?" my thoughts wandered.
As I turned my mind's eye away from the iconic volcano. I took in the entire island, looking at all of Hawaii's volcanoes, active and dormant. I even looked for the so-called dead ones.
Of all the volcanoes, Mauna Loa was one that piqued my interest during my search. I could see into its magma chamber in my mind's eye, which only told me that the volcano was still active, but I also knew that Mauna Loa had been dormant for decades.
"How active?" I pondered, my inner sight diving into the depths of the volcano. No definitive answers emerged, just the constant churn of the Earth's belly and Gaia's cryptic warning echoing through my being.
I flicked my phone to life and reached out to the Lair. Dave's voice greeted me on the other end, unaware of the maelstrom of questions ravaging my thoughts. "How's Hawaii, Mike?"
Taking a deep breath, I prepared to answer, the weight of responsibilities anchoring my reply. Hawaii was breathtaking as always, but beneath its paradise facade, I sensed the stirrings of something more--something that kept me vigilant and ready to serve as Earth's sentinel, no matter the mystery broiling beneath the surface.
Attempting to keep the mood light, I played down the day's adventures. "Oh, the usual Hawaii stuff--sun, sand, and just a dash of high-stakes marine rescue," I said with affected nonchalance.
Dave, familiar with my undertakings, mentioned the news reports. "Heard about Sol's heroics with the shipwreck and Kilauea," he said, his pride evident through the phone.
"Speaking of volcanoes, there is a situation here." I began my report. I shifted the conversation to more pressing concerns. "There's a potential issue brewing with the volcanoes here," I briefed him. I told him about the minor quakes, which led me to connect to the Earth to find the culprit behind them. Dave's worry was palpable, even through the phone. "And you're not certain Mauna Loa's behind these tremors?"
I clarified, "Mauna Loa is definitely the source. But as for the `when,' that uncertainty's the problem." I was contemplating my next steps when I caught sight of Brian in the doorway, his expression etched with worry. "I need to check with the USGS," I told Dave. I hoped their expertise could shed light on the situation and give us time to prepare for anything.
Brian's words cut through my thoughts. "Thought you were in the restroom?"
"Yeah, I also had to change out of the wet clothes," I explained, gesturing to my dry outfit.
"I miss seeing you in wet clothes. It tends to show off your best features," Brian remarked by grabbing his crotch. This gave us both an instant hardon.
I smirked, "Maybe next time." I was well aware Dave was still able to hear and I worded my response carefully.
"So you are dressed. Why didn't you come back?" he pressed gently.
I got the instant reminder as Dave chimed in my ear again, "I'll get you in touch with the USGS Director, but be careful--he's all about protocol. Don't bring up your unique... connection to the Earth."
"Thanks, Dave. I'll handle it tomorrow morning," I assured him before hanging up and turning my full attention to Brian, whose presence lent a sense of urgency--and normalcy--to the moment.
"Dave?" Brian gasped as he rushed to my side.
"I was on the phone with my mentor," I confirmed
Brian reddened. "Did he?"
"I don't know, but probably," I smirked, as my love became a pretty crimson.
"Mike, will you let me know you are talking to someone before I go off on sexual innuendo?" Brian was now flushing profusely.
Turning to a more serious matter Brian demanded, "So why were you even talking to Dave?"
"Sorry, I just had to double-check everything," I reassured Brian, apologizing for the secrecy, but his supportive presence welcomed my openness.
In an instant, Brian was at my side, saying, "I knew you were not telling me everything."
I told him, "I still do not know much, babe."
I fell back into the bed, "All I got was a vague impression of a possible volcanic disturbance from a volcano that has been dormant for decades,"
"You're still holding back, aren't you?" Brian rightly suspected that his intuition was in sync with mine.
"I really don't have all the pieces yet," I insisted. "There's still so much we need to figure out," I explained, the uncertainty gnawing at me.
"What information are you missing?" he probed, always seeking to be part of the solution.
Which volcano was responsible for these subtle tremors lay at the heart of my concerns. "At first, I suspected Kilauea, but we just paid a visit and I connected directly with the volcano and none of what I felt seem to match up apart from its typical displays, it's behaving as expected," I confided to him.
He breathed a sigh, "That's somewhat reassuring."
"Not entirely, love," I cautioned. "This is a volcanic island. Any of the many, whether active, dormant or believed extinct, could surprise us. Mauna Loa is the one that's captured my attention. If my hunch is right, we might witness her awakening," I shared my theory.
Brian, always quick to act, asked, "Should we evacuate then?"
"No definitive answer just yet. She may erupt before we leave, or not at all if the recent activity is the result of water interacting with her magma chamber," I explained, considering the variables at play.
"How will you confirm that?" Brian's concern deepened.
"The only way to know for sure is to venture inside," I said. The prospect was daunting, even for Sol.
Brian chuckled with a hint of relief, "Sol certainly wouldn't be fazed by a dive into a volcano."
Agreeing, I added, "Sol might handle it, but if Mauna Loa does blow, he's our best shot at preventing a disaster."
Time passed as we sat together, Brian attempting to lighten the mood. "Let's get out there. Bring a bit of normal back, yeah?" he suggested, steering us back towards the others.
With Nick and co's questions about the tremors already bubbling to the surface, I braced myself. Without solid proof to alleviate their concerns, I needed to maintain calm. "Until I have concrete evidence, we must hold onto the idea that Kilauea is going about her business as usual," I said, aiming to reassure and buy us some time as I planned my next move.
Brian's instinct to deflect from the tension surrounding Mauna Loa's potential threat was a welcome shift. Instead, he captivated the group with the tale of the ocean rescue--a story that allowed me momentary reprieve from the bubbling anxiety and to share my unique viewpoint of the event that unfolded beneath the waves.
"The humpback's intervention was truly a blessing from Gaia," I agreed with Kevin, grateful for the gentle giant's role in the rescue. His suggestion of a Rob Thomas duet brought excited murmurs from the group--a hint at another memorable collaboration in the making.
As the conversation turned to the joy of their performances and the anticipation of future shows, my thoughts occasionally strayed to what could be a looming catastrophe. Despite the ominous gut feeling about Mauna Loa, I resolved to balance preparedness with presence. There was a part of me that needed to savor these golden moments, to not let the shadow of what might happen eclipse the joy of now.
These were precious, irreplaceable times, each shared experience a thread in the rich tapestry of life. And so, I encouraged the group to go on with their plans. Whether it was the thrill of a live performance, the laughter around a shared meal, or the excitement of creating new music together, each moment was a gift.
Despite the uncertainties that lay ahead, I committed to ensuring their safety as Sol if needed. But as Mike, I was also determined to enjoy the sunsets, the camaraderie, and the aloha spirit of the islands. Every encounter, every song, every wave crashing against the shore--they were reminders to embrace life's ebb and flow, to live within the now, to rise to the challenges, and to cherish the quiet of peace. And with every beat of my heart, I'd stand ready to protect and appreciate our blue orb, our shared home.
Finally, Kevin suggested we all get to bed.
When Brian and I returned to our room, he was still bugging me about Mauna Loa, so I chose to change the subject. I placed my hand on my love's sweetdick, which was still confined; this instantly changed any and all topics. There was only the piece of flesh talking and I was going to answer it.
I needed what I was going to do just as much as he did. Furthermore, we have been sexually charging ourselves all night, and I require release. Brian was prepared, based on how I felt as I slid my fingers down his trousers, beginning with the tip of his dick. I carefully stroked my fingers down the head, feeling how warm it was and how slick it was because my boyfriend was flowing sperm. My fingers traced as best they could, but Brian's pant prevented me from properly exploring his gorgeous penis. My finger moved deeper down the shaft.
Brian hissed between his teeth, "You are changing the topic!" Brian moaned as I twisted his dick around, feeling it becoming more and more full. "What can I say, this a shaft I glady go down on," I joked.
When I noticed his dirty grin, he got up, unbuttoned his pants, and revealed his delicious dick. The head was so gorgeous that I moved in and kissed it, giving my partner immense pleasure.
I rubbed my palm over Brian's head many times, causing him to shudder as if he were in an earthquake.
This was one volcano I was about to enjoy, and I eagerly descended on him. Opening my lips, I guided my lover's dick up and down; Mount Littrell was about to erupt.
The fluids that flooded my taste buds made me shudder with pleasure. Brian quickly grabbed my head and pushed his penis into the Pennock Ocean as his hot lava spilled.
Brian fell on top of me as the personal earthquake generated by his orgasm receded, drawing back his now-soft penis from my lips.
"Thank you for your contribution, Mount Littrell." I licked my lips, causing his dick to rise again.
"It appears you have awakened another sleeping giant." Brian chuckled and thrust his dick back into my mouth.
"Now you must put this monster back to sleep," Brian said with a chuckle.
All I could do was groan as the shaft pumped in and out.
Brian had a second climax that caused him to fall over again, and his penis dropped out of my mouth. "Okay Mike, let's get some sleep?" Brian said.
"That's a great idea," I chuckled.
Brian laughed, "No, the swell notion. Of course, I'm shoving my dick up your ass, Mike, but we need some sleep."
We spent most of the time in bed having sex and making love until both of our bodies were exhausted.
The morning light crept in, signaling a new day and the promise of the Backstreet Boys' earnest rehearsal. Amidst the familiarity of well-practiced chords and routines, I received a call from Dave, prompting me to access my laptop. Upon opening it, the sight was all too familiar--BEATTI had synced with our satellite system, honing in on Hawaii, with Mauna Loa taking center stage on the screen. The data unfurled before me and confirmed my suspicions, adding a grave layer of certainty to my concerns.
Armed with this irrefutable information from BEATTI, I set out on a mission for answers that led me to the US Geological Survey base in Hilo. Here, the initial obstacle was not scientific data or volcanic activity, but the human element--the front desk receptionist, who greeted me with an air of protocol and scrutiny typical of such institutions.
Resourcefully, I flashed my Backstreet Boys security badge, symbolizing Tony's trust in appointing me as the group's temporary bodyguard. The badge was a persuasive token, particularly with the current concerns over safety following the quakes. With the group's well-being weighing heavily on my mind, my explanations found a receptive audience.
"You're Mike Pennock?" the receptionist realized, her tone mingling recognition with a hint of awe as she read my identification.
Affirming her observation with a simple nod, "I am," I said firmly.
Her response was swift and helpful. "One moment, please. I was informed you might reach out for a meeting with our Head Director." As she picked up the phone, I knew Dave's behind-the-scenes efforts were bearing fruit. The receptionist soon connected with Steve La'Tola, a man whose domain included a careful watch over Hawaii's volcanic heartbeat.
While I stood at the front desk, it became clear that the reverence typically afforded to the boys in the band didn't extend to mere security personnel. However, Dave provided the leverage that paved the way for me. La'Tola was a prominent figure, charged with crucial responsibilities at the Hawaii Volcano Observatory. Any communication with him required proper channels--channels Dave had graciously opened for me.
Dave had always respected the instincts that came as part and parcel of my unique connection to Earth. His intervention ensured that this visit went beyond a simple exchange--it could be pivotal in preventing disaster. It was one of those moments when having the right connections wasn't just about social networking; it was about the safety of countless lives.
As I awaited my meeting, the weight of potential outcomes sat heavy on my shoulders. But one advantage was certain: the message was clear that my instincts--and the callings of Gaia--were never to be taken lightly.
The minutes ticked by as I waited, feeling the slight vibrations of the building--an earthbound anticipation that set my nerves on edge. My thoughts flitted to the wellbeing of the Backstreet Boys, hoping they were safe and that nothing dire would unfold before I could piece together the puzzle. I glanced impatiently around the office and noticed the various indicators of volcanic activity, but it was the methodical ticking of an analog clock on the wall that became my unintended focus. Despite my usual aversion to clock-watching, I couldn't look away. With each tick, my worry deepened, and my heart mirrored the seismic tremors--a mixture of fear and determination.
Caught in a spiral of mounting tension, the internal tremors of anxiety threatened to take hold. I mentally prepared for the conversation with La'Tola, fully aware of the delicate line I had to walk between conveying urgency and not being dismissed as an alarmist. My readiness to plead the island's case hung in the balance.
The abrupt end to the oppressive ticking of the clock snapped me back. The receptionist's head peeked out brightly from behind a door, ushering me with a nod and a smile. "Follow me." The placard on the door stated "Head Director, Steve La'Tola," and with a gentle knock and a turn of the knob, she beckoned me into the room.
As I entered, La'Tola's expression was one of formality and scrutiny. Sitting amidst his professional backdrop, he gave off an air of authority that was both intimidating and polished. The simplicity of his suit, against the backdrop of his Polynesian heritage, marked by his necklace, created a stark contrast. His features might have been congenial under different circumstances, but they were set in a stoic mold at the moment.
His gaze landed on me, unyielding, as though trying to pierce through to my underlying motives. It was a stare that started a silent interrogation before words could fill the space between us. I drew upon every shred of resolve within me, ready to engage with the Head Director about the uncertainties that lay beneath the island's dormant grandeur.
La'Tola's gaze was one of wariness, sizing me up as if I were an enigma that had walked straight into his dominion. The customary pleasantries of greetings were glossed over; instead, he gestured to the chair across from him with a brisk "Mr. Pennock, have a seat."
I settled into the chair and faced the head director as he cut straight to the chase. "What can I do for you?" he inquired, his tone indicating that he preferred efficiency over small talk.
La'Tola's interrogation continued, his initial skepticism apparent. "You're associated with Dave Matthews, I hear."
"Yes, I work at the Philadelphia Geothermal Power Plant," I confirmed, maintaining a steady posture. "Dave appreciates my attention to detail; hence, he endorsed my accompaniment of the Backstreet Boys as part of their security."
He feigned curiosity. "Must be demanding?"
I allowed a smile to play across my lips. "Indeed, but it's a responsibility I take seriously."
La'Tola leaned forward, signaling readiness to address the purpose of my visit. "So, you're here about the seismic activity?"
I launched into my explanation, aware that the veracity of my tale was crucial. "We've experienced a series of tremors recently--the first around Kilauea, another during the concert, and one more at our hotel."
His dismissal was almost automatic. "You're near an active volcano; tremors happen."
Plain truth would have to suffice. "I've been to Kilauea myself, and it's not the source. I'm here because I believe there's something bigger building up. I've witnessed enough to recognize that these tremors signal something isn't right." My words were firm, a blend of science and instinct. Unseen beneath his no-nonsense exterior, I sensed La'Tola was more receptive than his initial demeanor let on.
Mentioning my intent, "I'm particularly curious about one volcano," piqued La'Tola's interest, betraying his anticipation that such inquiries would remain unasked. The sweat on his brow was a silent admission; he must have sensed the same unease that plagued me. "Which one?" he asked with a feigned nonchalance.
With confidence borne of my senses, I asserted, "Mauna Loa has garnered my attention. How is it behaving?"
La'Tola's reaction was swift, the perspiration a telltale sign of his discomfort. "Mauna Loa has been dormant for a long time, and with Kilauea's regular activity, there's no indication of Mauna Loa stirring," he claimed, though his anxious tone hinted at deception.
I remained unrelenting. "The same was said before Mount Saint Helens erupted, and we saw the consequences of that underestimation," I reminded him, unwilling to disregard my intuition.
La'Tola, though visibly shaken, attempted a composed response. "I assure you, Mauna Loa's activity is minimal. Seismicity is low, there's no notable deformation, and gas emissions are within expected levels. There's no need for concern," he explained, but his words were empty, his assurance lacking conviction.
His attempts to redirect my queries back to Kilauea, suggesting the tremors were typical of its volcanic nature, failed to dissuade me. I perceived the cracks in his facade more clearly than ever--my heightened insights unraveled his stoic veneer.
Unsatisfied, I pressed further. "Could I possibly take a closer look myself?"
Though visibly annoyed by my persistence, he found no grounds to refuse my request. I was running out of patience, feeling the weight of my responsibility--a duty to safeguard lives as both Guardian and Sol--lives that could be threatened by what I feared was an imminent natural event.
"Come with me," La'Tola commanded, leading me deeper into the hub where the Earth's whispers were translated into data and graphs. He cloaked his tension with a veneer of authority, but the undercurrent of worry couldn't be concealed from me.
The USGS Volcanology Center buzzed with the hum of machinery and the soft glow of computer screens. "We have eyes on every volcano here," La'Tola declared, a mix of defensiveness and pride in his voice. "Mauna Loa is still asleep," he reiterated, guiding me to a bank of monitors focused on the giant's silent repose.
As La'Tola presented information and visuals, my eyes flicked between the readings and the man before me. His tone was assertive, verging on confrontational, as he strove to assure me of Mauna Loa's inactivity. Yet, the same data reports that Dave had shared with me from the Lair painted a starkly different picture--one of a Jekyll-and-Hyde hide volcano that was stirring from its slumber, incited by the mercurial fingers of Pele.
Every piece of information, including what was right in front of me, told a different story. Those readings indicated that the Fire Goddess Pele was about to unleash her wrath. Furthermore, this bozo was making things worse. The eruption of Mauna Loa was imminent. The one thing that was still unavailable was the exact time this catastrophe would occur. And this Director wasn't helping; his constant efforts to mislead me only made this situation worse.
I had to take a firm stance now that it was my chance to press the director. Determination and assurance took the place of my fear and agony. I could feel La'Tola's lies radiating off of him.
"I can't be misled." I challenged him with unwavering resolve. "This volcano is awakening, and its eruption is not a matter of 'if' but 'when.'"
La'Tola's agitation surfaced, wavering between dread and the ingrained need to uphold his professional facade. "You must believe me, Mr. Pennock. There's no deception here," he responded, but his words fell on deaf ears.
I knew better than to take his word at face value. Time was of the essence, and Mauna Loa's impending discourse would refuse to be hushed. It was time to prepare, to alert, to protect--and as Guardian, as Sol, as Mike, I was ready to rise to the call of the Earth.
La'Tola's agitation was now fully apparent; his declaration that he wasn't lying to me was underscored by the tension in his voice. I countered with a sentiment that had recently been echoed by a friend about the tragic irony of human complacency in the face of Earth's warnings.
"It is funny; a buddy of mine had asked me not too long ago why so many people tend to die when the Earth sends out enough warnings meant to protect us from harm," I remarked, my eyes bored into the geologist. As much as a short person could look up at this taller man,. But at this moment, I was the tallest person standing on the moral high ground
"More lives will be saved from an exploding volcano if people are warned that it is about to erupt than after lava starts to flow down its flanks," I told him. "By then, it is already too late," hoping he would give in to logic.
La'Tola held his ground. "It's my responsibility to issue warnings, Mr. Pennock. But only if there's a real threat."
Softening my approach, I tried to bridge the gap between his caution and my own certainty. "Sir, I can see it--the apprehension, the reluctance to incite panic. You don't want to cause unnecessary alarm," I suggested, striving for empathy.
But my attempt only escalated La'Tola's frustration. "I don't know what you're trying to imply. Please leave before I call security," he asserted, fear and anger mingling in his tone.
This was the all-too-familiar crossroads where human nature often hesitated until it was too late. Instead of sounding the alarm, people fell silent, potentially allowing disasters to unfold unchallenged. It was here, at this impasse, that bold action was needed--the kind that could preempt tragedy rather than become mired in regret after the fact.
I exited the USGS office with a sense of finality, my disappointment in La'Tola's obstinate stance palpable in the air. "So much for the expert opinion," I said, the words wrapped in a blend of derision and disillusionment.
"That volcano was ready to erupt, but that guy did not tell me anything helpful." After making sure nobody was nearby, I grabbed my phone and gave Dave a call, saying, "You were right, Dave, but so was I."
Dave said, "Mike, did it go well?" into the phone. I informed him and judging by the snarl in his voice, Dave was not pleased with my treatment, particularly since he knew that I tried my hardest to issue Director La'Tola a serious warning without disclosing all of my sources, and he essentially ignored it.
Tabling that for now there were more pressing matters at hand, Dave needed to know what I knew, prompting Dave demanded, "What did you get out of it?"
When I told him what I saw at the USGS and all the figures that only confirmed everything my intuition and what BEATTI and the Lair's computer all said--that our sleeping giant was waking up--I answered with frightening certainty, "Mauna Loa was definitely the source of these earthquakes and she will erupt; there is no longer any question about it; everyone on this island is in grave peril."
I also heard Dave pray to someone, saying, "Thank God they have a Guardian there to protect them from nature's wrath."
"The only question that remains unanswered is when." As I spoke those words, I could practically see the terror that was now on Dave's face, as he was now just as concerned as I was.
It seemed that Dave shared my concern. "And Director La'Tola couldn't give you that information?"
"Worse Dave he wasn't expecting anyone else to even be aware that this eruption was even going to happen," I answered
Dave was flabbergasted. I could practically see Dave shaking his head in the face of this calamity. After all, the USGS chief had just thrown me out, so Dave was now terrified. It is conceivable at any moment. "These seismic events are merely indicators that Mauna Loa will erupt; the exact number of earthquakes before the primary event remains unclear," I concluded, providing him with an update. "Do you have any idea how to find out? There isn't another way to narrow down the timeline?" Dave's voice carried the weight of desperation.
"I need to get right to the core of this issue; I have to head straight to Mauna Loa to ask the volcano itself; just pray she is willing to share her plans with me," I replied.
Dave was terrified by the thought of what was coming, and unnecessarily, he ordered, "Mike, get to work. If this turns out to be a major catastrophe and Director Steve La'Tola ignores you, correction if La'Tola blatantly lied to you and to the rest of Hawaii. This was a grave mistake. I never thought I wished for a deadly volcano to erupt while the Guardian was there. Because, as it stands, the only thing separating that volcano from the rest of Hawaii is you. Good luck," my mentor tried to encourage me.
I felt the mantle of Guardian settle squarely upon me, the magnitude of the crisis facing Hawaii sharpening my focus. The Earth's whispers and cries had grown loud and insistent, and now it was my duty to heed them. With determination set deep in my bones, I readied myself to step into the breach, armed with the powers of Sol and the support of those who trusted in me. Hawaii's fate may hang in the balance, but Dave's faith in me steeled my resolve to protect the island's verdant beauty and vibrant spirit.
With the safety of Hawaii's residents and visitors in the balance, including that of my beloved Brian and the Backstreet Boys, my next move was clear. Only direct communion with the volcano could unveil the secrets we needed to anticipate the inevitable. Earth's messenger, the guardian, the intermediary between humankind and the forces of nature--I was prepared to confront the looming threat, whatever the cost. Sol would stand ready.
Dave's words steeled my resolve; the gravity of the situation was not lost on either of us. "I'm on it, Dave. If La'Tola's disregard ends up escalating this to a catastrophe, it will be on his conscience. Honestly, I never thought I'd find myself hoping for an uneventful outcome while stationed by an active volcano. But if I'm the only thing standing between Mauna Loa and the rest of Hawaii, then so be it. Wish me luck," I ended the call with a mixture of determination and a sobering understanding of the responsibility at my shoulders.
Facing the building that housed those blind to the rumblings beneath us, I declared my intent. "Sorry, I can't just stand by--I need to seek answers firsthand. This won't take long," I said, almost as if explaining my departure to the very structure itself.
Exhaling deeply, I summoned the reverence fitting for an impending encounter with Pele herself. "With the utmost respect, it's time for us to talk," I voiced aloud, the echo of my words carried away by the breeze.
With a snap of my fingers, a flicker of elemental energy sparked around me, and I teleported directly to the base of Mauna Loa--the site where I hoped to glean insights and perhaps dissuade an incoming threat. The conversation that awaited could alter the fate of the island, and I was prepared for the dialogue, however daunting it may be.
Back at the Lair with all the information on Mauna Loa racing across the screen Dave could sit there and read them "No I can't just sit here, my protege is about to take on one nature's most powerful weapon," Dave said as he quickly sat up and began pouring over the information "I can't battle a volcano, I can battle a twit who failed in his duties," Dave stated he put a call into his head of security "Stella it is imperative that the following information gets to the proper authorities in Washington, D.C."
Stella appeared on the small screen "Are you serious?"
"My young protege has confirmed it and is now about to take the matter up with the source, but we need to do more, Mike tried to get help, he tried to warn and in return, he got dismissed," Dave was livid
Stella looked down at the information, "I will pass it along if you speak to your young friend tell him I wish him luck,"
After Stella signed off All Dave could do was sit at the main computer where the troubling data was scrolling across the screen. Dave sighed in fear and hope at the same time, sending a silent prayer to whatever supreme being listening, Dave whispered, "He will need every bit because he is the only one who can save an entire island from nature's wrath,"
To be continued
And thus concludes this chapter. One very unhappy volcano and unsuspecting island Sol is their only hope when this natural disaster decides to come true.
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I also recommend the following stories it was because of them I got into writing in the first place.
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"Marvel Knights" also by authorjames
"Tales of the New Phoenix" by Blake
"Tales of a Superhero Band" by Leo
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