Optimus hummed thoughtfully at the objection, but refrained from commenting. Megatron had backed him up regardless, though he suspected the coding had at least some influence, as the senator had been foolish enough to threaten him, even if just mildly.

The threat was far more subtle and less graphic than many he has received before, so Optimus has largely put the threat itself out of his processor, focusing on the social fallout instead. But it didn't make him less grateful.

It felt, optimistically, like a potential breakthrough.

"Most have tired it at least once, and some have learned, but many seem to think I am holding out for a better offer, like Decimus just now."