Let you join the army to quit Internet addiction, but you create the Matrix
Chapter 10 - How About I Take the Reins, and You Become the Squad Leader?

Chapter 10: How About I Take the Reins, and You Become the Squad Leader?

Under the guidance of the squad leader, Chen Ming and his companions quickly raised their voices.

Although labelled as singing, it had little to do with actual singing. The entire performance was more like shouting.

After the “singing,” the squad leader nodded in satisfaction.

Entering the dining hall, the squad leader led them to the food collection window: “The first meal in the army is noodles, called Zhagen noodles. Finish them all. If anyone leaves leftovers, I’ll shove the slop bucket into your mouths!”

Chen Ming got a bowl of noodles from the window, smiling and saying, “We’ve been hungry all day. There won’t be any leftovers.”

He knew that the army valued food, and wasting it would lead to dire consequences. The entire class gathered around the dining table as everyone received their noodles.

“Dinner!” Ordered the squad leader, who started eating his noodles without hesitation.

Having been hungry all day, they wasted no time devouring the noodles and even finished the soup. In the midst of less-than-melodious military songs from other classes outside the canteen, Chen Ming and his group thoroughly enjoyed their meal.

The squad leader, satisfied, stood up first and said, “Now that you’re all fed, line up outside to watch the evening news.”

Many in the class hesitated, wondering why they should watch the news.

The squad leader, noticing their reluctance, chuckled, “At 7 PM, we watch the news. It’s a military tradition! It’s the only way you’ll receive information in the army. You’ll come to appreciate it!”

After his words, he led them to the large classroom to wait.

As they arrived early, the news broadcast hadn’t started, and the TV displayed exaggerated advertisements. Sitting in a row, the squad leader next to Chen Ming maintained a dignified posture.

Chen Ming, curious, asked in a low voice, “Squad leader, are there computers in the army?”

He understood the system’s benefits, especially the 50% boost to his physical abilities, which was crucial during the recent run. He couldn’t afford to miss the system’s rewards obtained through gaming to succeed in the army. He’d be content even if computers were only available for signing in on Sundays.

Hearing this, He Dong and other game enthusiasts in the class leaned in to listen.

Glancing at Chen Ming, the squad leader responded, “Why are you asking this? Let me tell you, in the army, forget about playing games. I know some were sent here by their parents due to internet addiction.”

He Dong and the others withdrew their interest and resumed their seats. Chen Ming also chuckled nervously, easing the awkwardness within.

Isn’t that exactly what the squad leader mentioned?

“It’s not gaming,” Chen Ming hastily explained. “I just want to go online to gather information, like how to quickly advance in the army or search for ways to earn a few medals for fun.”

“You really dare to think about that,” remarked the squad leader.

The squad leader teased, “Planning to overthrow me and become the squad leader?”

Chen Ming quickly said, “No, I don’t want to replace you, squad leader.”

The squad leader laughed, “Replace me? Do you have that ability?”

Chen Ming laughed dryly and remained silent.

Li Long glanced at him, saying, “There’s a computer in the company, in the camp’s military activity room’s computer room. You can usually go in during holidays.”

Chen Ming’s eyes brightened suddenly.

The squad leader interjected, “But you recruit, forget about it. Even on rest days, you either tidy up or participate in recreational activities organised by the company commander and instructor. Forget about entering the activity room until you’re out of the company.”

Chen Ming sighed in resignation. His last hope was shattered. However, he thought, why not sneak in quietly?

With the memories inherited from the original owner, Chen Ming learned the skill of climbing walls during high school.

Although the army was undoubtedly stricter than school, with some caution, it should be manageable!

Chen Ming’s eyes sparkled at the thought of the solution to his problem.

Observing Chen Ming’s fluctuating expressions, the squad leader found it peculiar but did not inquire further.

The only remaining question for Chen Ming was: where is the activity room?

He was unaware of the activity room’s location on his first day in the military camp. Finding the activity room’s location and understanding the situation inside became crucial for Chen Ming. Only by solving these could he proceed with his plan.

Initially, Chen Ming intended to ask the squad leader, but on second thought, he restrained himself.

Asking the squad leader might reveal his plan to sneak into the activity room. Even if not, suspicion could arise. Therefore, replaceing the activity room’s location became a solo mission for Chen Ming.

Approaching 7 PM, others from different classes also arrived. A group of people sat at their respective places, rarely interacting. Even conversations were hushed. In the crowded classroom, only the echo of brainwashing slogans filled the air.

At 7 PM, familiar music played as the news broadcast began on time. After the news, the squad leader led them back to the class, allowing time for personal hygiene.

At exactly 10 PM, with the lights-out signal, everyone went to bed. The squad leader controlled the switch, extinguishing the lights with a snap. The dormitory fell silent, except for the persistent chirping of cicadas outside.

Before long, snores filled the air, and everyone drifted off to sleep.