American Hunting: Starting with Solitary Life in the Wilderness

Chapter 349 The Lawyer Takes Over, Mike's Special Skill
"any solution?"

“The Coast Guard is a government agency, man. They’re underfunded, their equipment is outdated, and there are always things that need to be paid for.”

“I’ve heard that the Fort Lauderdale team is looking to add a few new thermal imaging drones to their maritime search and rescue program, but they’ve been short of budget.”

"So, if you or one of your anonymous friends are willing to donate $50,000 to the Coast Guard Search and Rescue Foundation in the name of a concerned citizen..."

"Believe it or not, by tomorrow morning, they'll feel that tracking down a reckless vessel that endangers public safety is their top priority, something they must immediately mobilize all their resources to accomplish?"

Marcus laughed: "They will not only handle this case, but they will handle it quickly and beautifully, showing all taxpayers how well their money is spent."

"They might even invite a local TV station to interview them and promote how they use the latest equipment to enforce the law efficiently."

Lin Yu'an couldn't help but laugh. He understood that this was not a bribe, but rather an injection of capital into justice.

“I understand, Marcus. Thank you very much for your information and advice.”

"You're welcome, buddy. Remember, in Florida, money can't solve everything, but it can solve most problems."

“The remaining small portion is usually just because you haven’t spent enough money,” Marcus said, letting out a hearty laugh before hanging up the phone.

Lin Yu'an did not act immediately. He sat on the sofa and calmly reviewed the information and suggestions provided by Marcus in his mind.

Pushing the Coast Guard to enforce the law efficiently is only the first step; the goal is to bring perpetrators to justice.

The second step involves pursuing accountability and compensation on a civil level. This matter requires a true professional to handle.

He found a name in an encrypted group in his phone's contacts—David Chen.

David Chen is a Chinese-American lawyer who currently handles the legal and financial matters related to his farm.

Lin Yu'an dialed his number, and although it was late at night, the call was answered almost immediately.

"Boss? What happened?" David's voice was as calm and capable as ever.

“David, I need to consult on some legal issues concerning Florida.”

Lin Yu'an succinctly recounted the maritime events that had occurred that afternoon, along with the intelligence he had just obtained.

David listened quietly on the other end of the phone, occasionally interrupting him to ask a key question or two.

For example, "the specific value of the equipment damage", "whether there are medical records of your hand injury", "whether the live broadcast recording clearly captured the other party's facial features", etc.

After listening to the whole story, David remained silent for about half a minute, clearly rapidly constructing a legal model and litigation strategy in his mind.

When he spoke again, his voice carried a hint of the excitement that lawyers have when they smell blood!
"Boss, we can really make this a big deal."

“First, on the criminal level,” David said rapidly and logically.

"The other party's actions constitute reckless or negligent operation of a vessel under Florida law, and are a first-degree misdemeanor causing personal injury and property damage."

“Once convicted, drivers could face up to a year in prison and a $1,000 fine, and judges will not be lenient in sentencing if they have a similar prior record.”

“Secondly, and most importantly, the civil aspect.” David’s voice became even stronger.

“We have a perfect chain of evidence: video evidence, professional captain witnesses, and the physical harm and psychological trauma you have suffered as a public figure.”

"Both the helmsman and the charterer, Kevin Parker, can be sued."

He paused, as if calculating a number, "Regarding compensation, you can claim actual damages, including ship repair costs, lost wages, and medical expenses."

"There is also punitive damages. Given the malicious intent of the other party's actions, we can ask the court to award punitive damages that far exceed the actual losses, with the amount reaching at least six figures."

“Wait a minute,” Lin Yu’an interrupted him, her voice even colder than before, “David, the malice you’re talking about might be more serious than you think.”

"Oh?"

"The video clearly shows that when their boat cut in front of us, there were at least four or five men and women on the deck laughing and giving us the middle finger."

"A group of people?" When David's voice rang out again, it carried an undisguised excitement, like a shark smelling blood.

"Boss, this is enough to wipe them all out!"

“When a group of people make insulting gestures at the same time, it is a perfect self-proof of ‘collective malice’ in law!”

"It completely shattered any possible defenses the opposing lawyers might have made, such as 'it was just a young person joking' or 'it was unintentional'!"

"This is no longer a piloting error; it is a collective, deliberate, and insulting act of attack at sea!"

"With this evidence, in criminal cases, the prosecutor can use it as an aggravating circumstance and request that the main offender be punished more severely."

"In civil proceedings, I will have irrefutable grounds to list all identifiable participants in the video as co-defendants! I will sue them for joint infringement and intentional emotional distress!"

David finally asked, "It depends on your goal: to put them in jail, make them pay money, or... to issue a public apology?"

Lin Yu'an looked at the deep blue sea outside the window, a cold glint flashing in his eyes.

The ocean that once brought him freedom and tranquility had just revealed to him the ugliest side of human nature.

“My request is very simple, David,” he said, each word distinct, his voice calm but filled with unwavering resolve.

"Don't let anyone go."

"Send those who can go to jail to the jail, make them pay until they're heartbroken, and make them empty their pockets. As for those who need to be prosecuted, no matter who they are, send them the summons."

"As for an apology..." he paused, "I don't accept apologies offered privately."

“I like this goal, boss. Leave it to me. You just need to recover from your injury and continue your sailing lessons. The rest is up to you to watch the show.”

"Oh, right, there's one more question, David." Lin Yu'an remained absolutely calm, not letting the thrill of revenge cloud her judgment.

"I learned through a local source that donating money to the Coast Guard Search and Rescue Foundation might expedite the investigation. Is there any legal risk involved?"

David clearly appreciated that Lin Yu-an was able to ask that question.

"That's a good question, boss. That's the difference between a professional and an amateur."

"The answer is no risk, but there are techniques involved."

"First of all, this donation absolutely cannot be made directly by you or any of your affiliated companies. I will arrange for a third-party charitable trust that is completely unrelated to this case to complete the donation."

"Secondly, the donation must be made after the Coast Guard has formally opened a case based on your video evidence."

"Finally, the donations must be for the broad purpose of supporting maritime security, rather than being specifically designated for a particular case."

David said in a rule-giving tone, “Boss, we’re not bribing anyone. We’re expressing concern for public safety and supporting law enforcement in improving their efficiency.”

"All of this will be done within the framework of the law, in the most impeccable way, and no one will be able to find any fault with it."

"But, boss, your situation this time is completely different."

David's voice became extremely confident, full of a commanding presence.

"You forgot the most crucial point: you were live streaming at the time. And it was a live stream broadcast to millions of people worldwide. Do you know what that means?"

Lin Yu'an listened quietly.

"This means that from the moment the Coast Guard receives a report, it is no longer just dealing with an ordinary maritime infringement case."

"They conducted a public crisis management operation under the global media spotlight!"

"Your live broadcast recording is probably already going viral on social networks around the world. CNN, FOX, BBC... their reporters are probably on their way to the Coast Guard office in Fort Lauderdale right now?"

“In this situation,” David said with a hint of sarcasm, “there’s no need to push them any further. The pressure from public opinion will be like a red-hot iron, branding their backsides more effectively than any donations!”

"If they exhibit any delays, inefficiency, or if the media uncovers any background of the perpetrator that leads to ineffective law enforcement..."

"Then it's no longer just a case, but an incident that could cost the branch chief his job!"

“So, boss,” David’s voice softened again, “this time you don’t have to spend a single penny. Not only do you not have to spend a penny, but you also have to play the role of the perfect victim.”

"I will have Scout's PR team casually leak your injury to the media, as well as your unwavering faith in the fairness of the American justice system."

"This will put them in a very difficult position. In the end, the ones who will most want to solve the case quickly and punish the perpetrators will not be us, but the Coast Guard itself!"

"They will use every resource they have, even more eager than we are to prove their competence and fairness to the world."

"As for the donation you mentioned," David added finally, "you can donate money to the foundation in your name after the case is perfectly concluded, to thank them for their efficient work." "That way, you not only win the case, but also gain reputation, and incidentally establish a good relationship with law enforcement. That's the reasonable order of things."

"I understand. I'll leave this matter to you." Lin Yu'an was completely relieved.

“No problem! Wait for my good news.” David’s voice became relaxed again. “Go and rest, boss. I’ve taken over your battle. See you in court.”

The next morning, as dawn broke, Fort Lauderdale was still immersed in the last moments of tranquility before sunrise.

Lin Yu'an was the only person in the hotel's rooftop gym.

He was wearing a T-shirt and athletic shorts, and was doing steady-paced aerobic exercise on the treadmill.

Sweat dripped slowly down his well-defined muscles, reflecting a healthy sheen under the light.

After taking a shower and changing into clean, quick-drying clothes, Lin Yu'an arrived at the Blue Water Sailing Academy's dock on time once again before the agreed-upon time.

The sun was shining brightly, and a gentle breeze was blowing; yesterday's unexpected event seemed like nothing more than a dream.

Mike and Raven were already waiting in the office.

"Good morning, Captain, Coach," Lin Yu'an greeted them.

"Good morning." Mike nodded, his gaze immediately falling on Lin Yu'an's newly bandaged hand, his brows furrowing slightly.

Before he could speak, Raven stepped forward and said, "Hold out your hand, let me check it."

Lin Yu'an extended her right hand as instructed. Ruiwen carefully unwrapped the outer bandage and saw that the wound had healed considerably after a night of recovery, which eased her frown.

"The wound isn't infected and is healing well." As she examined the wound, she asked in a professional tone, "Can you still exert force with your fingers? Try making a fist."

Lin Yu'an slowly clenched his fist. Although he could feel the pulling and stinging pain from the skin of his palm, his movements were still powerful.

“Flexibility is also not a problem.” After confirming, Raven took out a new roll of waterproof medical tape and a pair of very professional-looking fingerless sailing gloves from her backpack.

"Let me re-bandage it for you with this waterproof tape to prevent seawater from getting in. Then, put this on."

As she spoke, she knelt down beside him on the sun-warmed deck and gently began to treat Lin Yu'an's wounds again.

Her hands, accustomed to battling sails and rough ropes, were now meticulously and attentively handling each step: disinfecting, applying medicine, bandaging—every movement was performed with utmost care.

The world around her seemed to quiet down, with only the gentle rhythm of the waves lapping against the hull and the soft sounds of her meticulous work.

The slanting morning sunlight dyed the sea a shimmering gold. The warm light filtered through the white canvas, gently bathing her in its glow.

It added a beautiful halo to her drooping eyelashes, and made her few strands of light golden hair, which were ruffled by the sea breeze, look particularly dazzling.

The sunlight softened her sharply defined profile, adding a rare touch of gentleness to her usually cool and sassy face.

Captain Mike, watching this scene, suddenly felt a pang of jealousy.

His fearless and precious daughter, who has always been a tomboy since childhood, has followed him through thick and thin. When has she ever been so... considerate and attentive to a man?

Mike cleared his throat, trying to break the atmosphere that he found somewhat too delicate.

"Ahem... Raven, that's enough. We should start class now," he said in a deliberately serious tone.

Raven didn't even look up, her hands still busy, but she didn't hold back with her words: "Shut up, Dad. The students' health is the prerequisite for ensuring the quality of teaching."

"You wouldn't want him to sail your precious Wanderer to the rocks today because of a sore hand, would you?"

One sentence was enough to shut Mike up.

Seeing his daughter protecting Lin Yu'an, Mike felt a pang of paternal jealousy rising within him. He suddenly changed his mind.

Originally, he only wanted Lin Yu'an to do some basic review today.

But now, he's determined to show this kid who the real king of this sea is!

I also need to show my precious daughter that her dad's abilities are something that a genius who has only studied for a day can't surpass!

"Alright," Mike clapped his hands after Raven finished bandaging, forcefully bringing everyone's attention back on track.

"Given yesterday's incident, the main sail pulley system of the Wanderer has been replaced with the best parts overnight, and it is absolutely safe."

His gaze swept over Lin Yu'an, then glanced at Ruiwen, who was still reminding Lin Yu'an of the precautions for wearing gloves, and changed his words on the spot:

"Let's skip the boring review today and get straight to something challenging."

He looked at Lin Yu'an, his eyes becoming extremely serious: "Yesterday, you showed me your reaction and calculation abilities."

"Today, I want to look at something even more important—your intuition with the boat, the wind, and the water. An art that cannot be calculated, but can only be felt."

"Therefore, our final test today is to dock without power."

"What?!" Raven paused in her bandaging. "Dad, this is too early! Non-powered berthing is the most difficult elective in the ASA 104 course! He's only on his second day!"

“It’s not early for him.” Mike shook his head, his gaze fixed on Lin Yu’an, filled with unquestionable authority.

"I want to see how far a natural captain can go, without any calculations, just by feeling."

Raven wanted to retort, but Lin Yu'an spoke first, calmly asking, "What is the core of non-powered berthing?"

Seeing that Lin Yu'an not only showed no fear but also began to explore the core technology, Raven immediately understood.

She swallowed back the words of advice that were on the tip of her tongue, and her brain instantly switched back to theoretical coaching mode.

As she helped Lin Yu'an put on his sailing gloves and adjusted the tightness of the wrist straps, she explained in a very fast voice that only the two of them could hear:

"The core is energy management. The ship's kinetic energy, wind energy, water flow... You must be like a stingy money-saving fairy, carefully calculating how to use and consume every bit of energy."

"Before making the final entry into the port, you need to use an 'S' shaped voyage to 'slide' and slow down, and finally use the 'water brake' generated by the reverse rudder to counteract the final inertia."

“This technique, which my dad calls the silent waltz, is one of his proudest skills. He’s... showing off to you.”

After listening, Lin Yu'an glanced at Mike, who had already walked to the side of the boat and was looking like a master, and then looked at Raven, who was adjusting his gloves. He smiled.

“Understood,” he said softly to Raven. “Then let’s… go and enjoy the captain’s waltz.”

There was no broadcast in the morning. Under Mike's strict guidance, the three of them first reviewed and practiced all of yesterday's operations.

Lin Yu-an's performance can only be described as impeccable, as if he had been sailing like this for years, leaving Mike with a bellyful of things to criticize, but he just couldn't find an opportunity to say them.

After lunch, McNa's pent-up desire to protest, which had been suppressed all morning, finally found an outlet.

He steered the boat to an open area of ​​water about 100 meters from the dock and then turned off the engine key.

“Alright, trainees,” his voice carried an unquestionable authority, “the morning warm-up is over, now it’s time for today’s main course.”

Lin Yu'an knew that the most crucial step was about to begin. He took out his live streaming equipment, quickly set it up, and then pressed the start button.

"Good afternoon, everyone," he said calmly, facing the camera.

"We did some review this morning. Now, Captain Mike Montgomery will demonstrate and teach us an advanced sailing technique—non-powered mooring."

"According to Coach Raven, this is one of his proudest skills, the silent waltz."

The moment the live stream started, fans who had been waiting flocked in, and the chat instantly became lively when they heard about the extremely challenging project.

[Here you are! Starting the broadcast so late today? What were you doing this morning?]

[No-powered mooring? Meaning no engine, just wind to stop the boat? How is that possible?!]

[A Silent Waltz? That's such a pretentious name... Looking forward to the old captain's performance!]

Captain Mike took the lavalier microphone from Lin Yu'an, his face showing a hint of helplessness at his daughter revealing the name of his special skill, but more so, confidence that he was about to begin his performance.

He waved to the camera and then began a performance that could be described as a work of art.

Sigrún has taught at the Iceland University of the Arts as a part-time lecturer since and was Dean of the Department of Fine Art from -. In – she held a research position at Reykjavík Art Museum focusing on the role of women in Icelandic art. She studied fine art at the Icelandic College of Arts and Crafts and at Pratt Institute, New York, and holds BA and MA degrees in art history and philosophy from the University of Iceland. Sigrún lives and works in Iceland.

(A niche subject, pirated again, so upsetting)

(End of this chapter)