Chapter 150: Company Commander Promise, Grenade Toss
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
After breakfast, Ye Sanshi completed his inspection of the premises and proceeded to teach everyone the proper technique for throwing grenades. There was a sense of urgency in the air as he shared his knowledge.
However…
While everyone comprehended his instructions and observed his demonstration, mere understanding and observation didn’t necessarily translate into effective learning or immediate application.
Wang Ye attempted to mimic the posture of the “Grand Priest” using his own hands. However, he struggled to feel the sensation of channeling all his bodily strength into his arms. Instead, he found himself somewhat uncoordinated in utilizing his physical power.
“Let it go for now. Remember, this is your first time throwing. The key is to give it your all when you actually do it. Employ a method that feels most natural for you to exert force. I won’t insist on adhering strictly to what I’ve taught you.”
Ye Sanshi detected the lack of fluidity in everyone’s attempts to replicate his posture. Recognizing the issue, he promptly halted their efforts.
For the first time, he wasn’t pushing them too hard, understanding that excess pressure might be counterproductive.
Soon, a whistle echoed from downstairs, signaling the time to assemble.
The on-duty platoon leader instructed the group, “You’re all aware of today’s agenda, correct?”
With the entire company gathered and reorganized, Ye Sanshi glanced at the bandaged hands of everyone and continued, “I know!” Their chorus of responses rang out.
“Indeed!” Wu Jianfeng nodded and surveyed the group. “Today, we’re focusing on grenade training. I’ve set a challenge for you. Anyone who can throw a grenade over 50 meters will be rewarded.”
“Hmm?”
A small ripple of excitement swept through the formation at this announcement.
Rewards?
Though just rewards, everyone was no longer inexperienced, particularly after Wang Ye had earned a third-class merit and aimed for another. Most class leaders had briefed their peers about the significance of meritorious deeds.
While rewards weren’t equivalent to merits, they still came with certificates of recognition. Sharing these back home would undoubtedly boost one’s reputation.
Wang Ye found himself tempted. He eyed Wu Jianfeng, contemplating whether this achievement might be linked to his existing third-class merit.
However, he reasoned it shouldn’t be too detrimental. After all, a distinction existed between merits and rewards.
Merits required recognition from the regimental headquarters, whereas rewards were bestowed by the company headquarters. This distinction enabled Wu Jianfeng to bestow such rewards without excessive difficulty.
Wu Jianfeng spoke again, “Alright, everyone, give it your best shot. Let’s see who earns the reward today.
But, don’t disappoint me.
If anyone fails to meet the 50-meter benchmark, not only will they forgo the reward, but they’ll also be subjected to an hour of push-ups to enhance their hand strength.”
What started as a promise transformed into a stern warning.
Within the queue, many were initially eager to participate, yet they now offered silent prayers. Falling short of 50 meters would be disheartening.
Amidst a mix of emotions, everyone hustled to the grenade training grounds under the direction of the on-duty platoon leader.
The grounds weren’t far from the camp.
“Grenade throwing: 30 meters is satisfactory, 35 meters is commendable, and
40 meters is impressive.
The captain mentioned fifty meters.
However, 1 doubt any of you can hurl one that far, or figuratively slap me in the face with your throws.”
As the on-duty platoon leader outlined the throwing range, he also sought to motivate the group in an unconventional manner.
Addressing the assembly, he exclaimed, “The company commander stated that if anyone claims first place by exceeding 50 meters, they’ll be rewarded.
As today’s on-duty platoon leader, 1’11 set a more achievable standard.
45 meters.
Should anyone meet this mark, I’ll personally cover the cost. It doesn’t matter how many people succeed; I’ll treat you to snacks at the service center.
Of course, this is contingent upon your capability to succeed.”
Wang Ye cast a glance at him.
Today’s on-duty leader was the third platoon leader and formerly Yan Zhiming’s class leader.
Wang Ye pondered what approach he would adopt toward his classmates if he were to receive the 50 yuan from him today.
Until then, nothing had been amiss, but talks about him had triggered Yan Zhiming’s isolation…
Certainly, thoughts were one thing, yet Wang Ye wasn’t entirely confident about his capacity to achieve 50 or even 45 meters.
The crux of the matter was his lack of practice.
Since joining the army, Wang Ye had yet to engage in any throwing activities.
Consequently, he was uncertain about his potential performance.
However, Wang Ye felt that 45 meters shouldn’t pose a significant challenge.
As for 50 meters, that remained uncertain.
Nevertheless, enticed by the reward, Wang Ye decided that if he couldn’t achieve it, he could always expend some skill points.
Thus, the grenade throwing training commenced.
The first squad stepped forward, each member handed three grenades.
“The highest distance reached is twenty-eight meters.”
“The highest distance reached is nineteen meters. Fail…”
“Alright, we’ve crossed the 30-meter line. The outcome is 31 meters. Let’s go again!”
The initial progress of the first group dampened everyone’s spirits, delivering a cold reality check.
The first two recruits couldn’t even breach the 30-meter mark. The second participant managed only 19 meters at best. This left the platoon leader visibly displeased.
It was quite frustrating.
At least crossing the 20-meter threshold should have been feasible. Yet, here it was at a meager 19 meters. He wasn’t pondering that he had never thrown a grenade before, nor that he might not influence others now. At this moment, he just wanted to vent his frustration on this soldier.
What was he doing wrong?
Was this about throwing a grenade?
It was making a mockery out of him!
Thankfully, the third recruit provided some relief, though not by much.
This soldier’s top distance was a modest 33 meters.
Subsequently, the rest of the first group continued their attempts.
“The highest distance reached is twenty-seven meters. Fail…”
“Pretty good, twenty-nine. Keep improving…”
The third platoon leader’s commentary injected a sense of anxiety into the recruits from the other squads.
It was an unfortunate sight.
Of the final ten individuals from the first squad, only three succeeded. The highest mark achieved was thirty-eight meters.
And to think that they were promised rewards for reaching the 50-meter mark.
Given the current scenario, it seemed they would be facing an hour of push-ups later.
Many who had initially been brimming with confidence, aspiring to throw 50 meters and claim the reward, found their self-assurance shaken in an instant.
This was surprising, as Class One wasn’t actually weak. Led by a meticulous platoon leader, the members were held to high standards. Their prowess was evident in various training sessions.
Both their collective strength and individual capacities were considered impressive.
Yet, their performance this time around was far from impressive.
For a brief moment, self-doubt enveloped the group.
Thankfully, as the second squad stepped up, confidence began to resurface.
An individual from Class Two, who usually didn’t participate actively, unexpectedly hurled the grenade the farthest at 45 meters.
It was a much-needed morale boost.
Of course, in the grand scheme, the situation remained somber. Even within Class Two, seven individuals failed to meet the target.
Onward to the third squad, the fourth squad…
Two more squads were to follow suit.
The next round unfolded with even more dismal results. Class Three produced a student who reached a distance of 39 meters, while Class Four’s best performance only reached 36 meters. A mere five students managed to pass between both classes.
“Everyone, focus on your throws. It’s natural to feel unfamiliar the first time around. Don’t overthink it. Give it your all and remain composed. Treat your first attempt as a trial. Use the second and third attempts to learn from your experiences and strive to succeed!”
Ye Sanshi walked over to Class Five.
Despite his earlier declarations about competing for first place and garnering the attention of the female military doctor, he now refrained from making such remarks.
This change was motivated by his desire not to burden the recruits with undue pressure.
The previous rounds’ setbacks had undeniably cast a shadow, intensifying the pressure on the remaining candidates.
“Class monitor, don’t worry. I won’t let you down!” Liang Fan assured earnestly.
His confidence stemmed from his proficiency in javelin throwing during his school years.
While throwing a javelin and hurling a grenade were inherently different, the explosive power of the arm and the principles of force application shared some common ground.
Liang Fan had been harboring this anticipation all along, awaiting this very moment…
“Alright, best of luck!”
Ye Sanshi affirmed his trust in the class monitor. Liang Fan, Wan Baojiang, and Wang Ye – these top-performing students inspired confidence in Ye Sanshi regarding their prospects of success.
“Class Five!”
At that moment, the third platoon leader’s voice resounded.
Ye Sanshi promptly led Wang Ye and the others to the designated area.
“Class monitor, may 1 go first?” Liang Fan requested.
Both Wang Ye and the rest of the group turned their attention to him, as did Ye Sanshi.
Ye Sanshi nodded.
“Excellent!”
Without hesitation, Liang Fan dashed forward.
After collecting the grenades from the designated spot, he approached the third platoon leader. Following the customary words of caution from the platoon leader, Liang Fan initiated his attempt.
“Ha!
With a resounding shout, the first grenade was launched.
“Here I go!”
Even before Liang Fan’s grenade had landed, Qin Li beside Wang Ye called out, “FUCK!”
The exclamation was prompted by the grenade’s impressive velocity and its graceful arc in flight.
“Fantastic!” Ye Sanshi exclaimed as soon as the grenade landed.
Liang Fan’s throw had not only crossed the 40-meter line but had also surpassed two smaller markers.
A remarkable 44 meters.
While he currently held the second position, it was noteworthy that this was Liang Fan’s first attempt.
“Oh, it’s a bit awkward. I couldn’t get a proper run-up!”
Within the throwing area, Liang Fan waved his right wrist, his demeanor relaxed yet his tone clearly discontented.
The third platoon leader chuckled and admonished, “Alright, get on with it. No need to put on a show!”
You have the ability to produce a 40-meter achievement when you’re still struggling with proper technique?
Hehe, understood!”
Liang Fan swiftly retrieved another grenade.
This time, he managed 48 meters.
Claiming the top position across the entire team, he earned a 50-yuan snack gift bag from the third platoon leader.
“Not bad at all. Another throw beyond 45 meters. Keep going, if you can reach 50 meters, I’ll add a 100-yuan bonus.”
“Alright, I’ll give it a shot!”
In truth, Liang Fan was far from confident at this juncture, as he had exerted his full force during his second attempt.
However, it fell short of the fifty-meter mark.
Nonetheless, he had yet to disappoint the ranks.
The third round commenced.
“Bang!”
The sound of a grenade striking the ground echoed. Regrettably, this time’s throw didn’t surpass the second attempt, due to the grenade’s higher trajectory.
The ultimate outcome settled at a mere forty-five meters.
“Oh dear, a slip-up, a slip-up. Platoon leader, could 1 have another attempt?”
“What are you thinking? Each person is allowed three throws, that’s the rule!” The Third Platoon Leader declined.
It wasn’t that he was unwilling to grant Liang Fan another chance, but the regulations indeed dictated so.
Similar to marksmanship training, only when the first five shots were spent did the third-class merit apply.
Continuing beyond that threshold would not confer the same benefits, even if one completed the full quota.
Furthermore, this was a competition. If Liang Fan were granted another round, wouldn’t others seek the same privilege?
“Very well, onto the next!”
The Third Platoon Leader summoned the Fifth Squad.
“Wang Ye, would you like to go, or shall Wan Baojiang?” Ye Sanshi inquired.
“I’ll take the lead!” Wang Ye replied decisively.
No need for secrecy. Liang Fan had stepped forward earlier, and after his remarkable display, as Class Five’s vice president, Wang Ye felt compelled to follow suit and showcase his skills.
Wang Ye hastened to the training area. He had intended to retrieve the grenade Liang Fan had thrown.
Meanwhile, Liang Fan returned to Class Five, his expression marked by frustration.
“Class monitor!”
“Haha, well done! While it might not be 50 meters, with more practice, you could certainly hit that mark.”
Ye Sanshi’s mood was uplifted. He patted Liang Fan’s shoulder and praised him loudly.
This left the other four class monitors, who had already suffered a blow to their pride, looking sour. Class Two, in particular, was thoroughly disheartened, as their grasp on first place had slipped away!