Optimus began his tradition of walking up early making his barracks tidy and spotless. Waking up Bumblebee with expectations for him to similarly prep his room before giving him an Energon cube then testing him verbally on some academy knowledge.

He's improving he has a rather thorough knowledge of the ranks and job titles. Though it was likely due to the fairly accurate hologram game that he bought at one of their stops. Bumblebee got Optimus hooked on some of the military tactical, historically accurate, as well as heavy world-building games. Bumblebee even tries to mimic some of the fighting techniques shown in the game when sparring with Prime. Within breaks, Optimus would give a few constructive criticisms as well as some mention of Bumblebee's improvements. Prowl gave his two cents too rather bluntly with a slide of snide.

Prime asked if the ninja himself would like to do some sparring to which he agreed. Optimus found it nice to be able to have a brawl with a seasoned fighter and Prowl really showed him that size isn't everything. Should be expected from one of the disciples of Master Yokitron. Optimus was basically at the receiving end until they decided to get working.

Maybe he should ask Prowl for some sessions to learn the art of the ninja way is what went through Optimus's processor.

Just half a megacycle until they leave the ship to clear up some space debris he took the time to message Codexa. As usual, she mentioned that she missed Optimus and is eager to hold him again. She also asked if he may want to work at the Iacon Archives as an investigator once his stellar cycles of service. An offer that stung his ego. He wanted to make a difference as an Elite guard for as long as he was online. Now his service is like a sentence. A sentence he does find he does deserve and more.

After messaging back and forth with Codexa Optimus checked up on Sentinel's profile to see what was happening with him. He's already in process of potentially getting promoted to a prime. Despite being used as his verbal trashcan Optimus was glad for Sentinel. He was happy his old friend still continue to push himself to make a difference. In a way, it is what encouraged Optimus to try to learn and improve despite his situation. Another reason why he still tries to learn from the best from the figures of the past and their influence.
Maybe someday he'll find that chance or make it himself. A wish he should have been more careful of.