(Please see all previous disclaimers)
Well, time flew as often happened and soon Lancex and Predaking had become regular fixtures with the Autobots even though it had only been a week or so since the pair had joined the team. And while Optimus had thought he had been a bit sneakier about it while Predaking was a bit more obvious about it, Lancex had started to notice something different about the two bots. He also felt like he had a strange reaction to being around the pair, though Lancex couldn't explain it as it didn't show up around other bots, just those two. He wasn't exactly sure what it was, though he would likely soon find out and his reaction would not be what anyone expected.
Lancex seemed to wake up each morning with Optimus, Predaking, or both snuggled up to the prince, depending on what was going on. Lancex had to admit it was nice to wake up warm rather than sleeping cold. This actually seemed to help he recharge better so he could train and fight better.
And with that, Lancex was returning from a training room where he had been practicing some of his royal arms weapons. As he was heading for his room, he had to pass the doors for the rec room. They were only partially open and so, not wanting to interrupt anything, Lancex waited outside but listened in, in case there was something he needed to know. He would soon regret eavesdropping.
Inside the rec room, the bots and the humans were all gathered for a rare moment of relaxation, though all were ready to fight at a moment's notice if need be. Optimus was sitting with Predaking as the two seemed to talk strategy though not necessarily for the war. Each is seemingly testing the other's skills and abilities and such even as they think of ways that they can win the spark of Lancex. Optimus is aware that it is Lancex's choice while Predaking wasn't sure if he should care about Lancex having a choice.
Miko soon came over to the pair, having gotten sick of the tension that was palpable in the air. She headed right for Optimus and Predaking. "You know…I don't get it" Miko piped up.
"What is it that you don't seem to understand, Miko?" Optimus asked carefully, unaware he was going to open a can of worms.
"You, Optimus, are a fearless leader when it comes to this war and Megatron. And you Predaking, you are also a powerful bot. How can you two be such cowards about admitting that you both have fallen for Lancex. I mean, come on, you have been kind of obvious" Miko replied. Optimus and Predaking looked at the female human, and while Optimus had a weary upset father look while Predaking looked like if looks could kill, Miko would be dead many times over. Unknown to the others, who were shocked by this, Lancex heard, and in utter panic, the bot fled. He fled fast and he fled far, he needed to get away, far far away.
Meanwhile, back with the rest of the bots, Optimus finally straightened up and tried to correct things. "Miko, it is inappropriate to presume you know what is going on. There is no evidence that Predaking or I have a crush on Lancex. And with you spouting off, you may cause more damage than you realize as you rarely think before you speak" Optimus replied, making Miko feel a little bad, as she really wasn't one who considered consequences before she spoke. Miko apologized and then headed off. Optimus could only hope that Lancex hadn't heard this, but both Optimus and Predaking sensed that something was wrong. If only they knew.
