~ Twenty-Nine - Season IV ~

Moments later, another group of guards entered with the prisoners.

The pirates walked in a straight line as the guards walked beside them. Their hands were chained. A locked, metal chain was placed on their necks. That connected them with one another. They dragged their feet as they entered.

Sweat and blood drenched their worn-out clothes. Bruises and whip wounds covered their skins. They were already thinner than before. And the lack of rest was evident on their faces.

My right hand slowly curled into a fist as I turned to the captain. I specifically gave out orders that the pirates shouldn’t be treated with hostility. But it was clear no one listened to me.

The captain finally caught my glare and lowered his head in shame.

“Is there something wrong, Your Highness?” Gonzalo whispered.

“Why are the pirates in such a terrible state? I thought I was clear when I ordered that they should be treated well,” I gritted my teeth.

“That is not how we treat our prisoners, Your Highness. I merel