Disclaimer for "The Tales of Sol 87D" Author: 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 that any other celebrities mentioned are homosexual. If you are not old enough to read these stories, please refrain from doing so. The same applies to those in countries where such content is illegal. For everyone else, enjoy!
Copyright Notices:
• Captain Planet and related characters were created by R.E. Turner and are copyrighted by AOL Time Warner Company and trademarked by TBS Productions.
• Babylon 5 and all related characters and props were created by Michael Straczynski and are copyrighted by Warner Bros.
• Star Trek and all related characters were created by Gene Roddenberry and are copyrighted by Paramount.
• Transformers and all related characters and props are trademarked by Hasbro Inc. and copyrighted by Rhino Home Videos and AOL Time Warner Entertainment Co.
• He-Man, She-Ra, and related characters and props are trademarked by Filmation (1980s).
• Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, and all related characters were created by Joss Whedon and are copyrighted by 20th Century Fox.
• Batman and all related characters were created by Bob Kane and are copyrighted by DC Comics and Warner Bros.
• X-Men and all related characters were created by Stan Lee and are copyrighted by Marvel Comics and 20th Century Fox.
Author's Note: To those who've been reading "Tales of Sol," I want you to know that there is sex in this story. However, that is not its sole purpose. I hope the sex scenes are enjoyable, but the story is meant to express hope and show how music can impact our lives. My favorite bands, 98 Degrees, Backstreet Boys, and Nsync, have seen me through some of the hardest moments of my life and offered hope. To them, I say thank you.
I dedicate "The Tales of Sol" to all my brothers and sisters of the US Armed Services, past, present, and future. I also want to thank my friends who helped with editing and inspiration: John Rivera, Albert-Russ Alan Rivera-Odum, Derbe D. Hunte, Yvette Ortiz, and Samuel Diaz Jr.
Special thanks to:
• James, author of "Tales of a Real Dark Knight"
• Blake, author of "Tales of a New Phoenix"
• Jeremi, author of "Tales of Young Mutants"
AI Use Disclosure: I have entered the 21st century of AI editing, 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.
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 87D
Recovery
Throughout the entire flight to the Lair, Brian remained steadfast by Guardian's side, his anxiety palpable. Leaning towards the hologram for any shred of hope, he pressed, "How is he?" with a voice thick with concern. The pungent aroma of damp, blood-stained clothes filled the air, yet Brian found a sliver of solace in Mike's pallid complexion--it was a far cry from the ominous hue of blue, signaling the gravest peril.
With every fiber of his being aching for signs of recovery, Brian watched in silent agony, hoping against hope for Mike's eyes to flutter open. The hologram tended to Mike's wounds with precision borne out of necessity, gingerly dressing the lengthy lacerations that marred his right arm, careful not to aggravate the tender flesh.
Dr. Crusher's holographic form provided a grim yet hopeful analysis, "Without the specialized care of the Lair's medical bay, certainty eludes me. However, Mike's innate resilience has been at work, mending his wounds."
Brian, clinging to memories of swifter recoveries, protested, "I've seen Mike bounce back faster than this."
The Emergency Medical Hologram (EMH) implored with measured patience, "Mr. Littrell, please understand. It's not merely the physical injuries. Guardian's exhaustive battle against the vampires--what you witnessed at the rink merely scratches the surface. Consider the energy he expended, and the blood he lost, especially in those decisive moments when he used his remaining strength to activate the fire sprinklers. It's a testament to his endurance thus far."
Amidst his sorrow, Brian struggled to grasp the gravity of the situation.
Kevin, ever the pillar of support, gently intervened, offering solace to his cousin, "Bri, let the doctor do her work. Mike's a fighter; he'll pull through."
Brian, overwhelmed by a torrent of emotions, lamented, "He was so valiant, so unyielding. Seeing him vulnerable, weakened--It's unbearable." His gaze fell upon Mike, particularly the bandaged arm that bore the brunt of his bravery submerged in combat, still smeared with blood--a stark testament to the ferocity of their ordeal
.Mike's costume was still in shreds and still caked with his blood, especially where his Mek'Leth had cut into him.
Back at the Spectrum Stadium:
In the aftermath of the chaos, Spectrum Stadium became a hive of urgent activity. Paramedics and firefighters swarmed the venue, and their efforts focused on saving and attending to as many victims of the vampire onslaught as possible. Amidst the whirlwind of rescue and aid, medics moved swiftly, offering critical assistance to the wounded.
Within the now eerily quiet stadium, a peculiar scene unfolded. John Cena, Randy Orton, and the members of the Backstreet Boys--AJ, Howie, and Nick--stood amidst the ruins of the wrestling arena, taking in the extent of the devastation.
In the heart of the arena, Mike's Mek'Leth lay abandoned on the mat, a silent testament to the battle it had witnessed. Nick, with a somber expression, approached the weapon. As he lifted it, his thoughts turned anxiously towards his friend, murmuring a heartfelt prayer, "I hope Mike pulls through." He carefully examined the weapon, the blade gleaming under the flickering lights, its edge marred by dust and stained with the blood of vampires and a hint of Mike's own.
AJ, trying to inject a note of optimism, reassured, "He's going to be okay; just you wait and see." His voice, however, betrayed a hint of doubt, and the events were still too fresh to fully comprehend.
Howie chimed in with a reminiscent tone, "Mike's been through tougher scrapes than this, remember?"
"Yeah, like that insane incident with the fan and Rob Thomas," Nick added, the memory causing him to shudder at the sheer madness of it.
The image of Mike, heavily bandaged and fighting for his life after being hit by a speeding car, was ingrained in AJ's mind, a stark reminder of the fragility of their situation.
John Cena, absorbing the stories shared by AJ, Howie, and Nick, couldn't hide his astonishment. Reflecting aloud, he admitted, "I can't even imagine being in Rob's shoes during that ordeal." The sense of camaraderie and the weight of the experiences they shared bonded the group even more in the silence of the damaged stadium.
"Without Mike's intervention, Rob wouldn't have stood a chance," AJ stated, visibly shaken by the thought.
John Cena, aiming to inject some levity, remarked, "Hey, your buddy is quite the fighter. Besides, he's got a match to square up with us."
Howie responded with a touch of warmth, "Thanks, man. But honestly, you can't even begin to grasp how extraordinary Mike is."
Randy Orton, reflecting on the group's unity, added, "Seeing how all of you rally around him, it's clear. Especially with Brian's feelings being what they are, I'm starting to understand his significance."
Nick offered a knowing smirk. "Trust me, you're only scratching the surface."
At the Lair:
As the Sea Dragon made its return to the Lair, the massive helicopter flawlessly executed its touchdown on the Helipad. Once securely landed, the EMH, impersonating Doctor Crusher in detail, advised Brian, "Hold on to Mike as we descend." As the lift began its descent, Brian held on to his wounded lover, keeping him steady as best as he could on their journey down to the bottom of the silo. They were barely at rest at the base of the silo when Dave, Jake, Gregg, and Galen approached the platform, stretcher in hand, ready to assist. The Sea Dragon's rear ramp lowered, facilitating Guardian's smooth transfer onto the stretcher, each movement calculated to ensure his safety.
Leading the procession with the precision and authority of her programming, the holographic Doctor Crusher guided them swiftly to the medical bay. As the team carried Mike away, Kevin was seen offering a comforting presence to Brian, his arm around his cousin, providing silent reassurance as they followed.
The EMH, embodying every aspect of the compassionate and professional Doctor Crusher, fulfilled her medical responsibilities with unwavering commitment, even as she had to insist on no further entry into the infirmary except for Dave, who entered so that he could remove Mike's blood and water soaked costume and put his protege into the light blue hospital tunic and pants. Once that was done, the holographic doctor ordered him out. to ensure the best care for Mike
Once out of the Medical Bay, Galen offered to take care for Mike's Guardian costume, offering to clean and mend it for the fallen hero.
In a gesture of solace, Dave walked over to the distressed singer, extending his arm, and drawing Brian into a reassuring embrace. With genuine concern piercing his voice, Dave tenderly asked, "Brian, how are you managing through all of this?"
Overwhelmed with emotion, Brian's voice broke through, "Dave, if only you had seen him in action, you'd be filled with pride."
As they regrouped outside the medical bay, Gregg, puzzled by the unfolding events, asked, "What happened?"
With his emotions steadying, Brian began, "We were at the Spectrum when it was ambushed by vampires."
Kevin seamlessly continued, "Mike stepped out to go confront them."
Brian resumed, capturing the urgency of the moment, "Out of nowhere, Mike and a group of vampires crashed through the ceiling. He must have tapped into his powers, as the wrestlers were miraculously moved out of harm's way just in time."
Kevin took the narrative forward when Brian was momentarily overwhelmed, "As they hit the ground in the rink, the battle waged on. In a startling twist, one of the vampires managed to get ahold of Mike's sword and struck him with it." Noticing Brian's distress, he added, "Then, in a harsh move, the vampire pushed Mike against a guard post, knocking him out cold."
Dave, with a knowing grin, countered, "I find that hard to believe."
Brian, with a surge of pride, responded, "Oh, he wasn't down for long."
Dave elaborated, "What I mean is, the very moment Mike's sword was turned against him, the Earth itself began to mend him, harnessing its healing powers."
"That's exactly what Mike tried to explain to me, but I can't wrap my head around why his recovery is taking so long," Brian admitted, his confusion palpable. Before Dave could offer his perspective, Kevin delved into the final details of the tale, revealing that a priest had been summoned to Mike's side.
Dave nodded solemnly as Kevin concluded, turning to address Brian's growing concern. "It's complicated, Brian," he began, seeking to provide clarity. "We can't quantify the amount of energy Mike expended battling those vampires outside the Spectrum Stadium, but it was significant--more than enough to drain him, yet typically not beyond his ability to recover from."
Pausing to ensure his point was understood, he continued, "However, Mike's injuries complicated things further. The amount of energy he had already expended was considerable. Now, not only does the Earth have to heal his wounds, it must also replenish the energy he used."
Jake chimed in, reinforcing the point, "Exactly. And his last-ditch effort, turning to fire at the sprinklers, must have pushed him beyond his limits at that moment."
Gregg, who had been quietly following the conversation, added his insight, "It seems Mike redirected whatever energy the Earth had begun to restore to him, focusing it on that critical action."
Understanding began to dawn on Brian, connecting the dots with everything he had been told, including Mike's own explanation. "So, in essence, Mike did what he always does--he absorbed the blow himself to shield us."
Dave's response carried a mix of affirmation and deep-seated pride, "Indeed, that's what he does."
"And that," Brian declared, a newfound sense of admiration and gratitude in his voice, "is precisely why he's incomparable."
"Fear not, Brian. There is a way you can help," Gaia materialized before them with an air of calm reassurance.
Desperate for any solution, Brian implored, "Please, what can I do?"
"Has Mike ever spoken to you about the effect of your music on the world?" Gaia inquired, her voice gentle yet profound.
Brian, puzzled, replied, "He mentioned that the Earth somehow celebrates whenever we sing."
Gaia explained, her words enveloping them like a warm embrace, "It goes beyond mere celebration. Music, particularly yours, embodies the Power of Heart, one of the Earth's elemental forces."
Dave interjected with a hesitant "So," prompting further explanation.
Gaia continued, "Heart is the element that allows for miracles to happen, for it can conquer any force, give hope when none can be found, Mike's heart is what made him a candidate for Sol and it is why he is in the medical bay right now,"
The desperation in Brian's voice was palpable as tears started to streak down his face, "How do I help him?"
"Tonight, Mike used the power of his heart to protect you all. Now, you must use yours to aid his recovery," Gaia revealed the path to Brian.
It all came back to Dave and he knew what Gaia was referring to, remembering when Mike saved Rob Thomas's life when he took that hit by that star-struck fan, Erica, after she tried to run Rob over with her car. In an heroic act, Mike took the car for Rob, saving the singer's life.
Dave called out, "BEATTI, ensure Mike can hear us," knowing the potential of what was to come.
"The public address system is now active," BEATTI's voice rang through the space.
"Brian, sing," Dave encouraged with conviction.
Confused, Brian uttered, "What? How will that--"
"Remember the incident in New York, when a car hit Mike?" Dave prompted, seeking to jog his memory.
Kevin remembered, "The one Mike took for Rob because of that nut, Erica?"
Thinking back to that horrific day was not something Kevin tried to dwell on. But it was what happened afterward the way the band got together to sing, not because of the company or even for their fans, but because a friend in need of comfort was depending on them. Kevin spoke softly, "You said our singing healed him then."
Sensing their moment of understanding, Dave pressed, "Your love for Mike, channeled through your strongest gift--your music--holds the key. Sing with all your heart."
With a spark of realization and a gentle smile of determination, Brian prepared to sing, embodying the heartfelt power they hoped would bring Mike back from the brink.
"People say I am crazy and that I am blind, risking it all at a glance," he confessed, his voice cutting through the silence with an honesty that was palpable. "How you got me blind is a mystery, I can't get you out of my head," he continued, each note heavy with the gravity of unspoken emotions. "As long as you're here with me," Brian's voice soared, a beacon of hope amidst the shadows of remorse.
"I don't care who you are, where you're from, don't care what you did, as long as you love me," he sang, a declaration of unconditional acceptance.
Kevin decided that right now was the time when family was needed the most, stepping forward, and adding the strength of his vocals to the unfolding confession. "Every little thing that has been said and done, Feels like it's deep within me, doesn't really matter if you're on the run, it seems like we're meant to be," he proclaimed.
Together, their voices melded into a harmonious call, "I don't care who you are, where you're from, what you did, as long as you love me." The melody was picked up by the microphones controlled by BEATTI and redirected into the medical bay, echoing through the room, reaching the ears of one whose life hung in balance. On the monitor displaying Mike's vitals, a subtle glow emanated from where his globe rested, signaling a miraculous reaction - the visual embodiment of the Earth amplifying their heartfelt entreaty.
"It's working," exclaimed Dave, his cheer a mix of disbelief and elation.
Undeterred, Brian pushed on with even more fervor, "I've tried to hide it so no one knows, but I guess it shows whenever you look into my eyes, what you did and where you're coming from, I don't care as long as you love me."
A testament to an unwavering belief in the power of love to transcend all, "I don't care who you are, where you're from, what you did, as long as you love me." Brian's dedication infused every word, his voice was a conduit of pure heart energy.
As they sang, a luminescent aura enveloped Mike, its brilliance intensifying. With each note, Mike's injuries began to mend at an incredible rate, a symbol of love's tangible impact.
Even the EMH, ever the observer, paused, glancing from her monitor to witness a pivotal moment - Mike drawing a deep, life-affirming breath.
In that instant, a melody became a lifeline, proof that love, in its purest form, possesses the power to heal, to save, and to change the course of destiny itself.
Waking up, my mind was in a haze of confusion. "Where am I?" I managed to croak, the events leading up to this moment were lost to me.
The EMH quickly took action, announcing, "Mr. Matthews, Mr. Pennock is awake." The door swung open, and Brian, Dave, Kevin, Jake, and Gregg filed in, their faces flushed with relief. Their collective joy was infectious, coaxing a small, tired smile from me.
"Hi," I greeted them, my voice heavy with grogginess.
Brian, ever the caretaker, leaned in, kissing my hand softly. "Hey, how are you feeling?" he inquired with gentle concern.
The EMH, ever vigilant, interjected, "I know you're all elated, but please, let's not overwhelm him."
"My memory's a bit foggy," I confessed, prompting Brian and Kevin to gently fill in the blanks for me.
"I'm sorry, babe. I didn't mean to worry you," I apologized, guilt threading through my words.
Kevin, with a gravity that underscored the seriousness of our situation, replied, "Mike, if you hadn't acted, we could've been dead or worse, turned into vampires."
Brian, already thinking ahead, asked, "How soon can we take him home?"
The holographic doctor considered this. "I'd like to observe him for several more hours, but I believe he'll be ready to go later today."
Grateful for their care, I inquired, "How long till sunrise?"
"Still three hours away, Mike," Dave informed me calmly.
A plan began to form in my mind. "When it's time, I'd like to be on the helipad," I directed, thinking ahead to my recovery.
The EMH was cautious but conceded, "Being in the sunlight will indeed boost your recovery, but I insist on a final examination before your discharge."
I couldn't help but explain, "Now that the immediate threat has passed, the Earth is aiding my healing and restoring my energy more efficiently."
The EMH began to counter but I interjected, "No offense, Doc, but if I am going to be bedridden, I would rather be stuck in my bed with Brian than here."
Understanding my desire, the EMH relented, "Very well, after sunrise I will discharge you, but you are to proceed directly to bed and remain there for the rest of the day."
Brian assured her confidently, "Don't worry, Doc. We'll make sure of it."
The EMH offered one last piece of advice, "Just refrain from any strenuous activities for at least another day."
Brian agreed promptly, "Of course, Doc," sealing our plans and ensuring my well-being.
Half an hour before dawn's first light, Dave and Gregg assisted me to the helipad, with Brian and Kevin trailing behind us. Realizing the potential danger to them, I halted their advance and said, "You guys can't be here when I start re-energizing."
Brian protested softly, "Mike, I want to stay by your side."
Dave quickly intervened, offering clarity, "No, Brian. Once we position Mike, we need to open the silo bay doors and adjust the radar dish to direct sunlight down the silo to Mike. The intensity of that light can be blinding, so we must leave him to recharge alone."
Through the intercom, Jake's voice broke in, "Dave, sunrise is upon us, silo doors are open and the radar dish is correctly aligned to channel the light to Mike."
Dave acknowledged, "It's time, Gregg. Let's gently lay Mike down."
With gentle precision, they positioned me on the helipad. Gazing upwards, I could spot a tiny speck of blue that marked the sky. Above, a sophisticated arrangement of mirrors was poised to redirect the sun's rays down the silo's shaft towards me. Dave and Gregg meticulously laid my arms by my sides and Dave carefully opened my shirt to reveal the globe embedded in my chest. A distant glimmer of light began to emerge from above.
With urgency in my tone, I advised, "You guys should leave now."
Understanding the importance of the moment, Dave and Gregg gave a solemn nod and exited the silo. Moments later, the first rays of sunlight cascaded down, enveloping the area in its warm embrace. My hands began to curl and a low groan escaped me as I felt the sun's vital energy rejuvenate my body, marking the beginning of a profound recovery.
Inside the Lair, Dave and the others watched intently from a monitor. Their collective breaths held as the entire silo was momentarily engulfed in a blinding radiance. The light show was brief, and the luminosity began to fade, as the silo doors shuttered closed. The camera then refocused to reveal Mike, astonishingly standing at the center of the helicopter pad, arms outstretched in a victorious pose.
Brian, unable to contain his excitement and relief, was the first to dash towards the exit. Racing through the Lair, he made a beeline for the lift, his anxiety, and anticipation propelling him towards his partner.
Upon reaching the helipad, Brian found Mike, bathed in the afterglow of rejuvenation, wearing a smile that could light up the darkest nights. "There's nothing more invigorating than the first light of a new day," Mike declared, his voice ringing with renewed vitality.
Brian, his worry melting into joy, managed a laugh. "How are you feeling?" he asked, searching Mike's face for any sign of lingering weariness.
Mike met his gaze, the strength in his eyes mirroring the power he had just absorbed. "Like I just woke up," he quipped, humor and health lacing his words.
To be continued
A night filled with music and past interactions both good and bad, this night isn't over yet it is just beginning.
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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