As the family settled into their new rhythm, Leo's burgeoning interest in mechanics and security deepened into a clear passion. He spent less time on casual boat repairs and more on advanced diagnostics, often pouring over technical manuals and online schematics. Marcus, observing his son, saw a sharp, analytical mind at work, a reflection of his own strategic brilliance, but applied to the tangible world of machines.
One evening, Leo approached Marcus, a blueprint spread across the kitchen table. "Dad," he began, using the informal term that still sent a quiet warmth through Marcus, "I've been thinking. The security systems we put in for the bakery and the cottage… they're good, really good. But they're also… basic. What if we designed something truly advanced? Something that could genuinely protect a whole community like Seabreeze?"
Marcus raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "What do you have in mind?"
Leo, energized, launched into an ambitious vision. He spoke of integrated surveillance, predictive analytics for potential threats (like rogue weather patterns or unusual vessel movements), and a responsive alert system that could mobilize local emergency services. He even discussed the possibility of an early warning system for the entire harbor, combining his mechanical knowledge with Marcus's more abstract strategic thinking.
Marcus listened, a growing pride in his son's ingenuity. He recognized the seeds of his own past in Leo's ideas, but applied to a different, more constructive purpose. This wasn't about war; it was about proactive protection, about building safety rather than just reacting to threats.
"It's a massive undertaking, Leo," Marcus finally said. "Requires a lot of funding, advanced tech, and political will."
"I know," Leo nodded, undeterred. "But I've been researching. There are grants for community safety initiatives. And with your… experience… we could make a compelling case." He looked at his father, his eyes shining with a rare blend of ambition and respect.
Marcus saw the opportunity. This wasn't just a project for Leo; it was a way for Marcus to channel his unique skills, his strategic mind, into something unequivocally positive, something that would benefit the very community that had offered him sanctuary. It was a bridge between his two lives, a way to use the General's acumen for Elias Vance's peaceful existence.
"It's dangerous work, Leo," Marcus cautioned, not wanting to sugarcoat the realities of sophisticated security, even for civilian applications. "It would draw attention."
"We'll be careful," Leo insisted. "And besides, who better to build a defense than someone who knows how to break one?" He gave his father a knowing look, a shared understanding passing between them.
Marcus smiled, a genuine, unburdened smile. "Alright, son. Let's draw up a proper plan. From scratch."
Leo's path was clear, and in guiding him, Marcus found a new purpose, a way to lay the ghost of Thorne to rest by building a safer future. The quiet general was about to become an architect of peace, one secure harbor at a time.