(Please see all previous disclaimers)
While Predaking and Lancex tried to wait as patiently as possible, Optimus headed in to speak with Hightide and Boulder privately. "I bring good news, old friend" Optimus stated once the three had reached the privacy of Hightide's office.
"And what news is this, pray tell?" Hightide asked.
"The war is now over, my old friend" Optimus answered.
Hightide was relieved. "I am thankful, however, it would seem you are not saying everything" Hightide responded.
Optimus laughed slightly. "You know me too well old friend. Predaking, the dragon bot that came with me, and I have called a truce so that we may both have a chance to woo over Lancex's spark. In order to do so, we must return to Lancex's homeworld. A few others are planning to come with us. The rest will remain here in Griffen Rock with the rescue bots. I need you, Hightide, to keep an optic on things here as I will not be available" Optimus explained. Boulder and Hightide nodded in understanding.
Boulder felt a bit left out but he had a question for Optimus. "Sir, since the war is now over, are we allowed to pursue others?" Boulder asked, curious but still unsure.
"If your spark calls forth for a mate or mates, I see no reason to deny that. Did you have something or someone in mind?" Optimus answered back.
"Well, before I say more, can you give advice on how to win a bot's spark over?" Boulder asked, aware that Hightide was curious as well.
"Well, I am not sure I am the most knowledgeable, but I can offer what little I know. My first advice would be to get to know the bot, see what they like, what makes them tick, learn their strengths and their weaknesses. If you can learn to accept those and embrace those, even if they are slightly annoying to you, you have a chance at winning the bots spark. May I ask who you are so interested in?" Optimus asked.
"Well…Heatwave" Boulder admitted and blushed. Unknowingly, Hightide blushed as well. Optimus realized both were after the same bot.
"And what about you two, can you accept each other as mates should you win heatwave over?" Optimus asked in all seriousness. Both nodded. "Well, with that bot, if he is indeed submissive, you will have to show your dominance to him and show him that you will keep him safe and provide for him. If he can't trust you, you will lose him. If you move too fast or too slow, you may lose him. Let things develop at a pace that is comfortable for him."
And with that last bit of advice, the three headed out of the office. All three had places to be. Soon enough, they arrived to the area where Predaking and Lancex were waiting. "All is set and ready to go. Away we go" Optimus announced, making Lancex and Predaking smile. "Best of luck to you and Boulder, Hightide" Optimus said as he prepared to head out into Griffen rock with Predaking and Lancex. Hightide and Boulder hoped that the advice Optimus gave them would work, though only time would tell.