As the *Sea Serpent* and her accompanying ships sailed into the harbor of the capital, the city's inhabitants gathered at the docks, their faces filled with awe and wonder. It was a rare sight indeed to see the Duke of the Sea arrive in the capital with his navy in tow, and the citizens could hardly contain their excitement.
On the deck of the *Sea Serpent*, Lucian stood tall, his presence commanding the attention of all who beheld him. His black hair glistened in the sunlight, and his blue eyes sparkled with determination. He was a vision of strength and power, and the people could not help but be drawn to him.
As the ships docked, the royal commander, along with a contingent of soldiers, approached to welcome the Duke. Beside him stood the 2nd Prince, a man of noble bearing with a look of curiosity on his face.
"Welcome, Duke Lucian," the royal commander said, bowing respectfully. "We are honored by your presence."
Lucian returned the bow, his expression gracious. "Thank you, Commander. It is good to be back in the capital."
The 2nd Prince stepped forward, his eyes alight with interest. "Duke Lucian, it is a pleasure to finally meet you in person. Your reputation precedes you."
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Lucian inclined his head in acknowledgment. "The pleasure is mine, Your Highness. I hope my visit will strengthen the ties between our realms."
As the Duke disembarked from his ship, he was greeted by a throng of well-wishers, eager to catch a glimpse of the legendary Duke of the Sea. Women swooned at his feet, and men clamored for his attention, but Lucian remained composed, his focus unwavering.
Among the crowd, a group of noblewomen approached, their eyes filled with adoration. "Duke Lucian," one of them said, her voice breathless. "It is an honor to meet you. You are even more handsome in person than in the tales."
Lucian smiled warmly, his charm evident. "Thank you, my lady. Your kind words are most flattering."
As the Duke made his way through the city, he was accompanied by the royal commander and the 2nd Prince, who eagerly asked him about his adventures at sea. Lucian regaled them with tales of his battles against pirates and sea monsters, his voice captivating and his gestures grand.
The citizens of the capital followed in awe, their eyes fixed on the Duke as if he were a living legend. They had heard of his exploits and his power, but to see him in person was a rare privilege indeed.
As the sun began to set over the city, Lucian was escorted to the royal palace, where he would be a guest of honor during his stay. The palace gates were opened wide, and the Duke was greeted with a lavish feast in his honor.
As he sat at the head of the table, surrounded by the royal family and the city's elite, Lucian couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction. He had come to the capital on a mission, but for now, he would enjoy the hospitality and the adulation of the people.
As the feast continued into the night, the Duke's thoughts turned to his brother and sister-in-law, who were still in the clutches of the Shadow Serpent. He knew that his time in the capital would be short-lived, but he was determined to make the most of it.
Tomorrow, the real work would begin. But for tonight, Lucian would bask in the glory of his arrival, knowing that he had the support of the people and the strength of his convictions to guide him