American comics: I am full of martial virtues and I love to be kind to others.

“This description matches Blake’s features,” Lynn said. “The FBI file mentions a scar on his left hand.”

“Where is that car now?” Sheriff Kahana asked.

The search results show that the van was returned to the rental point at Maui Airport at 6:00 AM this morning.

“They’ve already left,” Officer Nakamura said.

But Lynn didn't give up. "Check the airport's surveillance footage, and the passenger lists for all the early morning flights."

With the airport's cooperation, they quickly found relevant clues. Surveillance footage showed that three people matching the images outside the museum did indeed appear at the airport around 7:00 AM. They had purchased tickets for different flights, heading to different destinations.

“This is a standard dispersed escape strategy,” Lynn analyzed, “but the statue can only be in the hands of one of them.”

Further analysis revealed that one of them had purchased a first-class ticket to Los Angeles and checked in a specially sized suitcase.

“The statue is most likely in that box,” Emily said.

Lynn immediately contacted the FBI field office in Los Angeles, requesting an interception of the suspect as the plane landed. He also requested surveillance of Blake's known addresses in Los Angeles.

"The case is basically clear," Sheriff Kahana concluded. "This was a meticulously planned theft orchestrated by both insiders and outsiders."

“Yes, but there are still some details that need to be explained,” Lynn said, “such as the traces of seawater.”

Just then, Jack arrived at the museum. He had heard that there had been a breakthrough in the case and had come specifically to find out more.

"So the statue really was stolen?" Jack asked. "And not some supernatural phenomenon?"

“Yes, it was a very traditional theft,” Lynn replied, “but I want to ask you, did you do anything unusual while you were outside the museum last night?”

Jack thought for a moment, "I did feel a strong pull from the statue, an irresistible urge to get closer. I might have left some seawater on the grass outside the museum."

“Seawater?” Emily asked, puzzled.

“When I’m emotionally agitated, my body involuntarily secretes seawater,” Jack explained. “It’s part of my ability. Last night, the statue’s summons made me so excited that some seawater may have dripped onto the ground.”

"How did that seawater end up in the exhibition hall?" Officer Nakamura asked.

Lynn thought for a moment, "It's very likely that the thief's shoes got wet with seawater left by Jack, and then he brought it into the exhibition hall."

This explanation reasonably explains the origin of the seawater traces and also proves Jack's innocence.

At 2 PM, the Los Angeles FBI reported good news: they had successfully intercepted the suspect and found the "Tears of Poseidon" statue in his luggage. Faced with the evidence, the suspect cooperated, confessed to his crimes, and provided detailed information about Blake.

"That's wonderful!" the curator exclaimed excitedly. "Our prized possession is finally coming back!"

But the case didn't end there. Further investigation by the FBI revealed that Blake operated an international art smuggling network, specializing in stealing and reselling valuable artifacts. This operation in Hawaii was just one of his many criminal activities.

“We need to completely eradicate this network,” Lynn said. “This may require international cooperation.”

Over the next few days, Lynn continued to coordinate with FBI headquarters and law enforcement agencies in other countries, gradually uncovering the scale of the Black criminal network. They discovered that the network had stolen over $20 million worth of artwork over the past five years.

Mark Wilson was arrested for his involvement in the crime, but due to his cooperation and confession, he may receive a relatively lenient sentence. The museum has therefore re-evaluated its security measures and decided to upgrade its entire security system.

“This case has taught us a lot,” Sheriff Kahana said at the case debriefing. “Sometimes, the most complex crimes are hidden behind the simplest methods.”

“Yes,” Lynn agreed, “criminals deliberately create an air of mystery to mislead the investigation. If we keep relying on supernatural explanations, we may never find the truth.”

Emily echoed this sentiment, saying, "As a scientist, I should constantly remind myself to maintain rational thinking and not be misled by superficial appearances."

Although Jack was somewhat disappointed that the statue's disappearance wasn't a mystery, he was also happy that the truth had come to light. "At least now I know my sensory abilities are real. Even though the statue was stolen, I could definitely sense its presence."

“This suggests that your abilities may be more complex than we imagined,” Lynn said. “Perhaps you can not only sense the presence of water, but also the substances or energy associated with it.”

A week later, the "Tears of Poseidon" statue finally returned to the Maui Art Museum. To celebrate this victory, the museum held a special exhibition opening ceremony, inviting all those involved in solving the case.

At the opening ceremony, the museum director expressed his special gratitude to Lynn and Emily for their help. "Without Inspector Lynn's professional analysis and perseverance, we might never have recovered this precious artifact."

In her address, Lynn said, "This case reminds us that no matter how complex the situation, we must adhere to scientific investigative methods. The truth may be temporarily concealed, but it will never disappear."

Emily also shared her thoughts: "As a scientist, I've learned that when facing the unknown, we must maintain an open mind while adhering to rational analysis. Combining science and experience can solve most seemingly impossible problems."

Speaking on behalf of the local community, Jack said, "This case makes us realize that protecting cultural heritage requires everyone's effort. I'm happy to have been a part of it and hope to continue contributing to the preservation of our culture in the future."

After the exhibition opening ceremony, Lynn and Emily strolled in the museum's garden. As the sun set, golden rays bathed the statue, giving it a mysterious and beautiful glow once more.

“Do you think this statue really has special powers?” Emily asked.

Lynn gazed at the statue, pondering for a moment. "I don't know if it possesses supernatural powers, but it certainly has a special charm. Perhaps this is the power of art—it can inspire people's imaginations, create beautiful legends, and at the same time, drive them to perform all sorts of actions, good or bad."

“That makes a lot of sense,” Emily agreed. “Science tells us how things work, but art and culture give them meaning and value.”

At that moment, Jack approached. “I want to apologize,” he said, “for my previous statements about supernatural powers. While I do possess special abilities, I shouldn’t have let them interfere with my pursuit of the truth.” “There’s nothing to apologize for,” Lynn said. “Your abilities are real, and your connection to the statue is real. The issue isn’t the existence of these phenomena, but how we understand and interpret them.”

“Furthermore,” Emily added, “without the background information you provided, we might not have investigated this case so thoroughly. Sometimes, different perspectives can help us see details that have been overlooked.”

Jack seemed relieved. "Thank you for your understanding. I've decided to accept the museum's invitation to become a volunteer guide, using my knowledge of the ocean to help visitors better understand our culture and history."

“This is a great decision,” Lynn praised. “Your abilities and knowledge can make a positive contribution to the community.”

That evening, Lynn received a call from FBI headquarters informing him that other members of the Black criminal network had also been arrested, and the case was a complete victory.

“This is a perfect ending,” Emily said upon hearing the news.

“Yes,” Lynn said with satisfaction, “but more importantly, we learned a lot. This case reminded me that no matter how bizarre the circumstances, we must never abandon basic investigative principles.”

The next day, they were finally able to continue their vacation. On the way to Haleakala volcano, Emily asked Lynn, "Do you think we'll encounter any other interesting cases?"

Lynn smiled. "I hope not. This vacation has been exciting enough. But if it does happen, I believe we can handle it."

“Whatever happens,” Emily said, “we must remember this lesson: stay open-minded, but never give up on rational thinking.”

“Completely agree,” Lynn replied. “Now, let’s focus on enjoying this beautiful island and our vacation.”

The next morning, the Hawaiian sun shone brightly, and a sea breeze carrying the faint scent of flowers drifted across the hotel balcony. Lynn woke up early, gazing at the few small islands faintly visible on the distant horizon, a surge of curiosity rising within him. After yesterday's tense investigation, he felt he should truly relax and enjoy his vacation today.

“Good morning,” Emily greeted from the neighboring balcony. She had changed into a relaxed summer dress and was holding a travel brochure. “I was just looking at the nearby islands and found a few places that are definitely worth visiting.”

“Which islands?” Lynn walked to the edge of the balcony, close to the area adjacent to Emily’s balcony.

“This place called Lanai looks interesting,” Emily said, pointing to a photo in the brochure. “It’s known as ‘Pineapple Island,’ with beautiful beaches and unique rocky landscapes. And then there’s Molokai, which is said to have preserved the most pristine Hawaiian landscape.”

Lynn examined the photos closely; they were indeed very appealing. "Sounds good, but we need to find a boat to get to these places."

“Yes, I checked, and renting a yacht to Lanai Island costs about $800 a day,” Emily said. “It’s a bit pricey, but since we’re in Hawaii, it’s worth the experience.”

Just as they were discussing the details of renting the boat, Lynn's phone rang. It was Sheriff Kahana calling.

“Good morning, Inspector Lynn,” Sheriff Kahana’s voice sounded cheerful. “I heard you’re planning a trip to one of the nearby islands today?”

“Yes, we’re considering it,” Lynn replied. “What’s wrong?”

“I’d like to make a suggestion,” Sheriff Kahana said. “To thank you for your help in the statue case, the Maui Police Department is willing to provide our maritime patrol boat to escort you to any islands you wish to visit. It’s just a small token of our appreciation.”

Lynn was somewhat surprised. "This is too kind of you. It really isn't necessary."

“No, it’s absolutely necessary,” Sheriff Kahana insisted. “You not only helped us solve the case, but you also uncovered an international smuggling network. This is of great significance to the preservation of cultural heritage throughout Hawaii. Let’s express our gratitude in this way.”

Lynn glanced at Emily, who had clearly overheard the conversation and whose eyes sparkled with excitement.

“Let me think about it, okay?” Lynn said into the phone. “I’ll get back to you in ten minutes.”

After hanging up the phone, Emily immediately said, "This is a fantastic opportunity! Official patrol boats are definitely safer than chartered yachts, and they have professional crews."

“But that’s too conspicuous,” Lynn hesitated. “It doesn’t feel appropriate to go on a trip in a police patrol boat.”

"Why wouldn't it be appropriate?" Emily asked, puzzled. "You helped them, and it's normal for them to want to express their gratitude."

Lynn thought for a moment. "I'm worried that doing this will cause unnecessary trouble for the local police department. What if someone questions them for using public resources for private purposes?"

“Lynn,” Emily interrupted him, “you’re overthinking it. First of all, this is their way of expressing gratitude. Secondly,” she pointed to the tour brochure, “look at this price, eight hundred dollars! We can save that money and use it for other more meaningful activities.”

“You have a point,” Lynn admitted, “but I still think…”

“Furthermore,” Emily continued, “patrol boats are definitely much safer than ordinary yachts. As an FBI agent, you should have a stronger sense of security than I do.”

Lynn couldn't refute this argument. Indeed, from a security perspective, official patrol boats are far more reliable than chartered yachts, both in terms of equipment and crew professionalism.

“Alright,” Lynn finally agreed, “we’ll accept their offer.”

Emily clapped her hands excitedly. "Great! I'll go get some necessities. You call Sheriff Kahana back."

Lynn dialed Sheriff Kahana's number again. "We accept your offer, thank you."

“Great!” Sheriff Kahana was clearly pleased. “Officer Nakamura will personally lead the escort. The patrol boat is equipped with professional navigation and life-saving equipment, as well as experienced crew members. Which island would you like to go to?”

"How is Lanai Island?" Lynn asked.

“Perfect choice,” Sheriff Kahana said. “Lanai Island is beautiful and relatively quiet. Our patrol boat can wait for you at Maui port at ten o’clock.” (End of Chapter)