Disclaimer for "The Tales of Sol 88A"
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 88A
More Then Meets The Eye Pt 1
From his shadowy dominion, Hades, the god of the underworld, silently observed the unfolding dramas of the mortal realm through his enchanted viewing globe. His gaze settled on Mike Pennock, mingling with the world-famous Backstreet Boys. Hades' interest was not borne from admiration but from strategic concern. "He is a bigger threat to my plans than I thought," Hades muttered to himself, his voice a low rumble echoing in the cavernous expanse of his dark throne room.
The god's cold smile spread across his face as he contemplated the irony that awaited Mike. The revelation that one of the band members, whom Mike held dear, was unwittingly caught in a web of betrayal would be a delicious twist of fate. "I will take perverse pleasure when that nincompoop discovers the truth," Hades mused, delighting in the potential chaos that lay ahead.
Among the band, Howie Dorough was unwittingly at the center of Hades' intricate scheme--a plan that could threaten not just Mike Pennock but the balance maintained by Sol as well. Hades reveled in the knowledge that this deal, one cultivated over eons, would soon come to fruition, releasing chaos into the world in the form of the Titans. Mike Pennock stood as the primary obstacle in his path, the so-called 'dummy' who posed a significant threat to the unfolding of his grand design.
From his infernal vantage point, Hades watched as celestial bodies slowly began their alignment, a cosmic event that would empower his move against the guardians of the mortal realm. The urgency of dealing with Sol became paramount, lest his plans be thwarted by the elemental protector and his formidable allies.
Yet, even as he plotted, Hades was acutely aware of the formidable opposition he faced. Mike Pennock, with his unique connection to Sol, and Gaia, the ever-watchful Earth Mother, would not stand idly by as their world was thrown into turmoil. The god of the underworld knew too well that his machinations would draw their ire, making his existence--even in Tartarus--all the more perilous.
In this delicate balance of power, strategy, and hidden alliances, Hades prepared to execute his plan with great caution, mindful of the resistance he would face. The game was set, the pieces moving, and the fate of gods and mortals alike hung in the balance, each action and reaction weaving the intricate tapestry of an epic struggle that transcended time and realm.
The news of the accelerated departure for their European tour cast a shadow over the previously light-hearted spirits of the Backstreet Boys. As Tony laid out the schedule, a collective sense of resignation settled among the group--another reminder of the relentless pace that their careers often demanded.
"When are we leaving?" Nick's question cut through the momentary silence, his voice holding a hint of hope that perhaps there was still some wiggle room in their schedule.
"They have you in England in two days," Tony answered, the finality in his voice underscoring the urgency of their situation. "So we will have to fly out tomorrow morning."
Brian's sigh echoed the sentiment of the group, a silent expression of the fatigue and disappointment that came with the territory of their success. The constant juggling of commitments, the sacrifice of personal time, and the pressure to perform were aspects of their careers that they had all come to accept, albeit reluctantly at times.
Tony, for his part, endeavored to strike a balance between empathy and realism. "I know, Brian, we will try to get you back to Philadelphia, but you have an obligation to the Backstreet Boys," he said, acknowledging the personal sacrifices that often accompanied their collective achievements.
His words served as a gentle reminder of the commitments that bound them, not just to each other, but to their fans across the globe. The promise of returning home, of reclaiming those moments of normalcy and rest, remained a beacon amidst the whirlwind of tours, performances, and public appearances. It was a complex interplay of duty, passion, and the search for balance--a narrative familiar to anyone who had experienced the highs and lows of living a dream.
Nodding in acknowledgment, Brian's understanding of the logistics and demands of their touring schedule did little to ease the emotional weight of departing sooner than anticipated. The thought of leaving Mike, even temporarily, tugged at his heartstrings, a silent ache that underscored the depth of their connection. "I know Tony, but I had assumed we would have an extra week before we tour Europe," Brian expressed, the disappointment palpable in his voice.
"You were until several tour dates kept clashing with each other," Tony elucidated, shedding light on the unforeseen complications that necessitated their early departure.
Intrigued by the specifics of the logistical puzzle, Nick sought clarity. "What kind of conflict?" he asked, his inquiry prompting a closer examination of their revised schedule.
"To start, we had a tour in Germany and Italy, but to fix technical problems in both arenas, we had to make adjustments that put them at odds with one another," Tony detailed, outlining the domino effect triggered by the venue issues. "Management moved Germany to a new location without affecting ticket sales. Which unfortunately messed with the dates for your performance in Paris and threw Brussel into disarray," he continued, painting a picture of the intricate balancing act that tour scheduling often became.
As they digested Tony's explanation, each member of the group studied their tour dates anew, the realization setting in that their schedule had transformed into a jigsaw puzzle of clashing dates and logistical challenges. The complexity of their revised itinerary was laid bare, a testament to the behind-the-scenes efforts required to bring their music to fans across the globe.
In this moment of recalibration, the disappointment of changed plans was tempered by a renewed appreciation for the dedication and hard work of their management and support teams. It was a reminder that the path to fulfilling their commitments as entertainers was paved with adjustments and compromises, each step taken in stride as they navigated the intersecting demands of their profession. Amidst the reshuffling of dates and locations, the underlying mission remained unchanged: to connect with their audience through the universal language of music, wherever and whenever that might be.
The revelation of their packed tour schedule left Howie visibly deflated, his expression a mix of exhaustion and gratitude. "Man, I would not have the energy for this either if it were not for Mike's Holo-Room," he admitted, the memory of their day of virtual escapade providing a stark contrast to the daunting reality of their upcoming commitments. His words underscored the essential role that brief respite had played in rejuvenating their spirits.
AJ echoed the sentiment, his frustration with the unpredictability of their schedules was palpable. "I hated when they changed stuff at the last minute," he concurred, voicing a common grievance within the group.
Nick's patience, however, seemed to wear thin the quickest, and his frustration was directed squarely at Tony. "And you tried to give Mike a hard time when he gave us a moment of fun and relaxation!" he snapped, challenging the tour manager's earlier actions.
Tony, momentarily flustered by the sudden confrontation, attempted to clarify his position. "Now hold on one second, Nick. I had no problem with Mike stepping up to give you that moment of peace and tranquility," he defended, his intentions seemingly misunderstood.
Yet, Nick was not easily assuaged, his protectiveness over their newfound sanctuary--and the friend who provided it--was dominant. "Did you not pull him aside so you could run one of your fucking tests on him to prove Mike was as good as they come?" he pressed, his glare intensifying as he questioned Tony's earlier suspicions of Mike's intentions.
Tony, caught between his responsibilities and the undeniable evidence of Mike's loyalty, struggled to respond. "Nick, we have to be on constant guard against anyone who could..." he began, trying to justify his caution.
Refusing to let the matter rest, Nick firmly stood his ground. "Tony, Mike has come through for us so often that you should have known better than to even dare to question his integrity," he argued, a staunch defense of a friend who had become an integral part of their lives, both as a source of support and a catalyst for much-needed relief.
The exchange served as a poignant reminder of their collective experiences--moments of challenge and support, scrutiny, and trust. In the face of their demanding lifestyle, the bonds they had forged with one another, and with Mike, surpassed mere camaraderie, evolving into a steadfast network of mutual respect and unwavering loyalty. Amidst the logistical whirlwind of their tour schedule, this unity stood as an unshakeable foundation, a beacon guiding them through the tumult of their extraordinary lives.
Brian's calming intervention halted Nick's rising frustration. "Nick, I know we are tired, but I also know Mike would want us to fulfill this tour," he gently reminded the group, grounding their emotions in the collective commitment they shared not just with each other, but with their fans and responsibilities. The reminder brought a moment of reflective pause, underscoring the balance they continuously sought between personal desires and professional obligations.
Seeking a compromise that would honor their need for connection amidst the demanding schedule, Brian turned his appeal to Tony. "We are supposed to have dinner with Mike tonight. Can we at least do that?" he asked, the request a testament to the value they placed on their time with Mike, a grounding presence in their whirlwind lives.
Tony, ever the pragmatist, reviewed the flight itinerary before responding. With a thoughtful nod, he offered a solution that balanced both needs. "We can fit that in, Brian, but before you guys go to bed, you need to be back here and out of the hotel completely." His conditions set clear boundaries, ensuring the band could honor their commitments without compromising the upcoming tour's logistics.
Brian, relieved by the concession, promised, "I will let Mike know, and he will make sure we are back in time." The assurance in his voice resonated with a bittersweet acceptance, epitomizing the endless negotiation between cherished moments and the call of duty. "Anytime with Mike is enough."
Tony then hinted at further plans, aiming to bridge the geography that would soon separate them. "And we will get you back here, Brian. We are also trying to figure out how to get and persuade Mike to come along with you." His optimism spoke of behind-the-scenes efforts to maintain the connections that had become so vital to them all.
Nick's contemplation of the challenges in convincing Mike to leave Philadelphia--even temporarily--reflected their awareness of Mike's deep-rooted commitments. Yet, Tony's confident, "Let us worry about that; we will make it worthwhile for him," emphasized a collective will to find a way, to ensure that physical distance would not diminish the bonds that tied them together.
Brian, heartened by the support and determined to make the most of their limited time, focused on the immediate opportunity to share a meal with Mike--an anchor in the promise of enduring connections despite the impending separation. As Tony granted them the time needed for this brief reunion, the preparations to notify Mike began, each action a chapter in the ongoing narrative of friendship, commitment, and the sacrifices woven into the tapestry of their extraordinary lives.
With the Backstreet Boys occupied in their meeting, I found solace in the progress of my fence project, a tangible task that promised both security and aesthetic improvement to my property. The contractors arrived promptly after their departure, their timing impeccable, and their reputation for speed and efficiency well-earned. Dave's knack for selecting the best in the business was evident, his connection to reputable construction companies in the region proving invaluable once again.
The contractors attentively took my design for the fence and gate, translating it into a practical blueprint ready for installation. Their integration of my vision with their expertise set the stage for a seamless blend of form and function. Anticipating the need for additional landscaping, arrangements were made to bring in more topsoil, ensuring the stability and integrity of the structure.
A retaining wall was cleverly incorporated into the walkway, making its construction not only practical but also adding an element of design. Steps on either side offered ease of access, blending the new additions naturally with the existing layout of the property. To further safeguard against erosion and to enhance the aesthetic, native dogwood trees were strategically planted. Their presence would not only aid in keeping the soil in place but also contribute to the beauty of the space, marking the seasons with their flowering cycles.
The efficiency with which the team worked was nothing short of remarkable--they managed to have everything completed in about 3-4 hours. The transformation they achieved in such a short span was a testament to their skill and Dave's foresight in selecting them for the task. The newly installed fence, gate, and accompanying landscaping not only served their functional purpose but also enriched the property's appearance, creating a welcoming yet secure boundary that reflected my preferences and needs.
As I surveyed the completed project, a sense of satisfaction washed over me. The collaboration between Dave's resourcefulness, the contractors' proficiency, and my vision had culminated in a result that far exceeded my expectations. It was a reminder of the power of teamwork and the beauty of bringing a concept to life through collective effort and expertise.
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.
Please remember to Donate to Nifty
Please tell me what you think at3unit3@yahoo.com
All comments are welcome
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