American Hunting: Starting with Solitary Life in the Wilderness

Chapter 282 An Invitation from the Air Force!
Lin Yu'an glanced at it and immediately replied, "Approach from downstream against the wind, and choose the area that is the lightest in color and the driest."

"Before touching down, maintain a high nose position and make contact with the ground first with the rear wheels to achieve a three-point landing, in order to absorb the impact to the maximum extent and protect the landing gear and propeller."

"Absolutely right!" Hank exclaimed. "Now, let's do something even more exciting!"

He jerked the stick, piloting the plane at an extremely tricky angle towards the narrow valley. The plane practically skimmed the mountain walls on either side.

"There are no standard runways in the jungle!" Hank's voice was a little hoarse with excitement. "Sometimes, you need to land in places like this! You need to practice short takeoffs and landings!"

As he explained, he landed the plane steadily on the riverbank, which was only a few hundred meters long, with a terrifyingly skillful maneuver.

Then, within the same short distance, it suddenly pulled up and roared back into the sky.

By the afternoon of the fourth day, after accumulating 24 flight hours, Hank watched as Lin Yu'an was able to perfectly replicate all of his jungle flying skills.

When someone was even more meticulous and precise than him in handling certain details, he finally gave up completely.

After a perfect landing, Hank unbuckled his seatbelt and walked straight off the plane.

He said to Lin Yu'an in the cockpit, "Alright, Lin, you've learned everything this plane could teach you. The rest is up to you to communicate with the sky."

Days 5 to 7: The Lonely Expedition

The next three days were Lin Yu-an's solo flight training period. He needed to complete the FAA-mandated long-distance ferry solo flights and night flight training.

Hank simply helped him check the plane and confirm the flight plan before takeoff, then sat on the porch of the cabin, drinking beer and watching the little red and white dot fly alone and freely in the vast sky.

Lin Yu'an flew over the uninhabited area of ​​Beijimen National Park, overlooking the glacier reflecting the ethereal blue light under the sun.

He chased the last rays of the sun, skimming low over the winding Yukon River, running alongside the herds of caribou on the ground.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, he climbed higher, piloting the plane into the heart of the Alaskan mountains.

Inside the cockpit, only the monotonous and reliable hum of the engine could be heard.

The last rays of the setting sun streamed through the porthole, merging the dim light of the instrument panel with his serene profile.

Beneath the wings, the continuous glaciers and canyons are sinking into a deep blue silence.

And so he walked alone through the realm of the gods!

As the last ray of golden light disappeared from the summit, the dreamlike green band of light on the northern horizon began to dance without warning.

He adjusted his course and flew toward the screen of light, dancing with the most magnificent miracle of this planet until the sky turned white!

On the evening of the seventh day.

When Lin Yu-an finished his last night flight training and brought the plane to a stop at the end of the runway, Hank solemnly signed his name in his flight logbook.

On that page, it was clearly recorded:

Total flight time: 40.1 hours.

Coach-led flight: 22.5 hours.

Solo flight: 17.6 hours.

All subjects required by the FAA were completed, or even exceeded.

Hank closed the notebook and handed it back to Lin Yu'an, saying only one sentence: "Go and schedule that most difficult exam. If they dare to fail you, I'll fly a plane and rip the exam hall up!"

ninth day.

Anchorage International Airport, General Aviation Zone.

Hank smoothly parked the red and white Cessna 185 on the designated tarmac.

He sat in the driver's seat, while Lin Yu'an sat in the passenger seat. As a trainee, Lin Yu'an was not yet legally permitted to conduct long-haul solo flights that required crossing multiple restricted areas.

Throughout the journey, Hank was nominally flying, but in reality, except for takeoff and landing, Hank spent almost the entire time resting with his eyes closed, completely handing over control to Lin Yu'an.

"We're here." Hank opened his eyes and glanced at the familiar FAA office building outside the window. "Don't be nervous, just treat this like our usual training. Remember, you're the best."

"Don't worry." Lin Yu'an unbuckled his seatbelt, his face as calm as ever.

The examiner he booked was Daniel Hansen, the most demanding examiner in all of Alaska, known as a trainee killer.

An old man who supposedly makes more than half of the candidates cry and go home during the oral exam.

What Lin Yu'an didn't know was that before he even stepped into that office, his name had already been given special attention by Daniel Hansen.

The oral exam was conducted in a tense office.

Daniel Hansen, a retired Air Force colonel with gray hair and sharp, hawk-like eyes, sat behind his desk, expressionlessly flipping through Lin Yu'an's file.

On his desk was a printed report card.

Just eight days ago, Lin Yu'an took the written theory test in Fairbanks, which took fifteen minutes and resulted in a score of 100.

“Lin Yu’an.” Daniel slowly raised his head, his gaze sharp as if he wanted to see through Lin Yu’an from the inside out.

“Your written test score is… very special. John Miller from Fairbanks even called me specifically to say he encountered a monster.”

He paused, his tone unreadable: "So today, I won't ask you those textbook answers. Let's talk about something real."

He didn't play by the rules and directly gave Lin Yu'an a task that was almost impossible to complete.

"Imagine it's winter, and you're flying a Piper Super Cub from Anchorage to a remote research station on the north slope, with no airports to refuel along the way."

"Please tell me your complete flight plan, including aircraft modifications, fuel calculations, route planning, and risk assessment."

This is a classic trap question because a regular Super Cub student simply cannot complete this task. Any student who follows the steps will run into trouble here.

Lin Yu'an calmly thought for a minute before beginning his answer.

He began by discussing the application for a temporary ferry permit for the aircraft, and then elaborated on how to legally install an auxiliary fuel tank inside the cabin while keeping the aircraft's takeoff weight within the permitted range.

Then, he pulled up the aeronautical chart and planned a route along the valley, taking advantage of the mountain wind effect to save fuel to the greatest extent.

Finally, he even compiled a detailed list of emergency survival equipment to deal with possible forced landings in the wild. The list was so detailed that it even exceeded the official standards of the Air Force.

He spoke for a full half hour, his logic was rigorous, his data was accurate, and every step was impeccable.

After he finished speaking, for the first time, a hint of emotion appeared on Daniel Hansen's perpetually icy face.

He remained silent for a long time, then slowly nodded and said, "Let's get on the plane."

The practical flight test became a personal performance by Lin Yu-an.

Whether it's a steep 45-degree turn or a slow flight on the verge of stall, every move he makes is as precise as if it were drawn with C4D software.

Daniel remained silent throughout, only drawing marks representing "excellent" on his scoreboard.

During the most crucial simulated engine in-flight shutdown, Daniel finally revealed his true colors as a rookie killer.

He had just flown over a rugged mountain ridge, with dense coniferous forests and rocky beaches below, when he suddenly slammed the throttle down to idle speed at the most challenging altitude and position.

"Lin, your engine just exploded." His voice was cold and cruel.

Almost the instant his words fell, Lin Yu'an's body reacted instinctively.

"Maintain posture and control speed!" This was his first reaction. Without the slightest panic, he immediately adjusted his posture in less than a second.

By slightly lowering the nose, the aircraft's speed was precisely maintained at the optimal gliding speed of this Cessna 175—75 knots.

His eyes, like an eagle's, quickly scanned the ground, and within seconds, he found a viable, narrow, upwind valley in the seemingly hopeless terrain below as a landing site.

Meanwhile, he was reciting the engine restart checklist in a monotone, emotionless voice.

"Fuel selector valve, confirm open."

"Mixing ratio, highest concentration."

"Oil pump, turn it on."

"..."

As the plane glided perfectly toward the emergency landing site and was about to touch down, Daniel Hansen finally spoke.

His voice carried a hint of shock that he himself was unaware of: "Alright, Lin, fly the plane back."

After the plane landed smoothly at Anchorage Airport and taxied back to the tarmac, Daniel Hansen solemnly signed the temporary pilot's license in his office.

Instead of handing it to Lin Yu'an immediately, he looked at him and said something he had never said to any student in his entire career.

He looked at Lin Yu'an with an extremely complex expression: "Lin, remember this. A license is just a permit that allows you to begin learning. But today, what I see is not a student, but a veteran who has flown his whole life. There is a soul in your flying that no flight school can teach."

"Welcome home, sky."

He handed the license to Lin Yu'an. When Lin Yu'an took it, he didn't let go.

A burning flame suddenly ignited in the eyes of this retired colonel!
“Young man, eight days ago, John Miller from Fairbanks called me and said he had found a monster.”

Daniel's tone became extremely solemn: "Today, I witnessed this monster with my own eyes. Therefore, I must ask you again in my own name."

He took out a well-made business card from the drawer, identical to John Miller's, bearing the insignia of the U.S. Air Force Reserve Command.

Are you interested in joining the army?

He looked at Lin Yu'an with eyes full of a desperate desire for top talent, his voice low and irresistibly alluring.

“What John can give you, I can give you. I can even do more. Listen, son, this isn’t just an ordinary job offer; it’s a shortcut to the pinnacle of imperial power!”

“I know you are still a Chinese citizen. That’s not a problem. As long as you agree, I will personally initiate the fast-track citizenship process for outstanding talents.”

"In as little as six months, you will obtain U.S. citizenship and a background check with the highest security level. I can also submit your file directly to the Air Combat Command at Langley Air Force Base."

"You will skip all the tedious selection and basic training and go straight into the top tactical flight squadron, where you will be mentored by the best pilots in the world."

"You will not be piloting a toy like a Cessna, but an F-22 Raptor!"

"With your outstanding abilities, as long as you pass the background check, you may even have the opportunity to get in touch with the sixth-generation fighter jet (NGAD) prototype that is currently being tested!"

"That's the most powerful fighter jet on Earth, the dream of every pilot!"

"I've reviewed your file. You're not even 25 yet, which is the prime age for a fighter pilot. Within a few years, you'll be a true ace pilot!"

"Soaring at 10,000 meters above the ground, you will defend the honor of this nation. After retirement, you will have an invaluable resume that will qualify you for any airline, NASA, or even a top-tier military-industrial complex!"

"Your family will enjoy lifelong, top-level medical care and benefits! Once you join the Air Force, these things will no longer be an unattainable dream for you!"

"Lin, this is the kind of sky and life a genius like you should have!"

These words painted a picture that was more direct, more tempting, and more deadly than John's invitation.

It is no longer a simple job offer, but a complete life package contract that includes all elements of nationality, career, family, and future.

No young person in a foreign land with dreams in their heart could resist such a temptation.

However, Lin Yu'an's reaction remained calm and composed. In fact, a strange smile even flickered in his heart.

Putting aside the fact that he's now a billionaire, he knows all too well what the US military is like, especially the Navy and Air Force. Want to get ahead without connections? Ha!

And this veteran's grandiose promise—a sixth-generation fighter jet? He probably wouldn't even believe what he's saying himself.

The NGAD program is indeed progressing, but its astronomical costs and technological bottlenecks have put it at risk of having its budget cut by Congress.

Until Lin Yu'an was reborn, this fighter jet never appeared. Instead, China's sixth-generation fighter jets took off one after another.

More importantly, the real competition between major powers has long since shifted from simple air combat to drone swarms, hypersonic missiles, and silent warfare in the space domain.

What this veteran is depicting is a romantic fantasy belonging to a bygone era, full of individual heroism.

How does this sound different from his impassioned promise to party members on September 30, 1949, when he spoke to them about to achieve victory, promising them a promotion of three ranks and a reward of a hundred gold bars if they joined the National Revolutionary Army?
He looked at this respectable veteran, whose gaze was still fixed on past glories, and shook his head with a smile.

His voice was gentle yet firm: “Thank you, Mr. Hansen. I am honored by your appreciation. But I am sorry, my answer is the same as it was in Fairbanks.”

"My sky is not within the military territory of any country. I just want to fly freely with my family."

After saying that, he politely accepted the business card, placed it together with his license, nodded to Daniel and Hank who was waiting outside, and then turned and left.

Daniel Hansen stood there, watching his departing figure, motionless for a long time.

He couldn't understand how anyone in this world could refuse such a broad road to glory.

He muttered to himself, "What a pity... what a real pity... if this kid had been willing to wear a military uniform, his name could have been listed alongside those greatest legends."

When Lin Yu'an walked out of the office, Hank was leaning against the plane, smoking a cigar, his face filled with undisguised pride.

Lin Yu'an walked up to him and handed him the small card.

"All done, instructor."

Hank took it carefully, as if it were not a card but a precious medal.

It was a sky-blue card made of thick plastic. On the front was a recent passport photo of Lin Yu'an, which made him look dashing, and below it was clearly printed his name "LIN, YUAN" and a unique pilot certificate number.

The most eye-catching feature is the bold capital letter "PRIVATE PILOT" in the middle.

On the back, his endorsement qualifications are detailed: AIRPLANE SINGLE-ENGINE LAND, and a endorsement just signed by Daniel Hansen, proving that he can fly a tricycle landing gear.

This little card is a pass to the sky, an identity card for freedom.

"Well done, pilot!" Hank grinned, unable to contain his excitement, and punched Lin Yu'an hard in the chest. "I knew you could do it!"

Lin Yu'an smiled: "On the way back, it's my turn to drive, right?"

“Of course!” Hank gave up the pilot’s seat. “Now you’re the proper captain. Take your first passenger and get going!”

The news spread like wildfire throughout the entire Alaskan flight community.

He passed the written test with a perfect score in fifteen minutes, obtained his driver's license in nine days, and turned down offers from two high-ranking air force officers.

A legend about a monster is quietly being born.

As Lin Yu'an, holding the temporary driver's license that still smelled of ink, drove the Cessna 185 with Hank back to Wiesman at dusk.

Nine days later, he went from a complete novice who had never even touched an airplane to a licensed pilot.

The news spread like wildfire throughout Wisemane, and this incredible legend further enhanced Lin Yu'an's prestige among the townspeople.

He is no longer just an outsider with good marksmanship; he is also a powerful figure who has conquered this land and sky!
That evening, in the warm cabin, Arya and Emily prepared the most lavish celebratory dinner for him.

The fire in the fireplace was burning brightly, and a beautiful tablecloth was laid out on the long dining table, with candles that smelled of pine.

The table was laden with roasted venison, pan-fried salmon, and berry pies baked by Emily herself. Arya had also specially opened a bottle of her treasured French champagne, golden bubbles rising merrily in the crystal glass.

"To our world's most handsome captain!" Arya stood up, raised her glass high, her eyes filled with boundless adoration and love. She even playfully curtsied to him.

"To our heroes and our guardians." Emily smiled and raised her glass, her eyes gentle yet full of pride.

Lin Yu'an smiled and clinked glasses with them, the crisp sound of glass clinking echoing in the warm wooden house.

For him, the recognition and love of his family are far more satisfying than any praise or legend from the outside world.

Aria put down her wine glass and looked at Lin Yu'an's brand-new pilot's license from time to time. "Darling, can you really fly us anywhere anytime from now on?"

“Of course, my dear Aria, theoretically yes, she can go anywhere.” Lin Yu’an cut off a tender piece of venison and put it on her plate.

Emily smiled and didn't interrupt Arya's excitement.

She picked up the champagne glass, about to refill Lin Yu'an's glass, but when she heard Aria say "Take us anywhere," her hand paused slightly in mid-air, and the golden liquid swayed at the bottle's neck.

This subtle pause lasted only a moment, so fast that it was almost imperceptible.

She casually continued refilling the glass, then asked softly in a cautious, tentative tone:
"Honey, Hank told us... that examiner from Anchorage also invited you to join the Air Force, right? My God, just how outstanding are you that two colonels are vying to recommend you!"

Her words were full of admiration, but deep in her eyes, which were fixed on Lin Yu'an, there was a hint of nervousness that was hard to hide.

Arya's excitement froze for half a second. She had just been immersed in the fantasy of flying freely, but Emily's question was like a needle, instantly puncturing that beautiful bubble.

Her smile became somewhat forced, and she looked at Lin Yu'an. The two women exchanged a glance, a glance that contained too much unspoken understanding and worry.

They knew better than anyone what the F-22 Raptor meant to Lin Yu'an, a man whose very being was adventurous.

It was more than just a job; it was an ultimate temptation, representing speed, power, and the ultimate dream of conquering the skies.

Once accepted, it also means a long separation, unpredictable dangers, and the complete surrender of one's life to a massive war machine.

Their homes and their future children will be swept up in a torrent beyond their control.

Lin Yu'an saw their cautious worry and tension, and felt a warmth in her heart—a warmth of being completely trusted and cared for.

He put down his knife and fork, and gently took their hands, which were resting on the table, into his palm, conveying a sense of reassurance.

------

(He became a U.S. citizen in 2022 and joined the National Revolutionary Army in 49. There really are such choices as the "Sleeping Dragon" and the "Young Phoenix".)
(Thankfully, the number of reads today is still 998, and it hasn't dropped any further.)
(End of this chapter)