Chapter 355: The Weight of Innocence and Politics

**Thelma Zane’s POV** “You’ve done nothing wrong,” I told Emma firmly. “You’re simply an innocent soul caught in the middle of a storm. If there’s anyone to hold accountable, it would be the Evalia family for their treacherous alliances or your grandfather, the Earl, for turning a blind eye and quietly consenting. But you? No. You called me a kind and just monarch, didn’t you? And a kind and just leader would never punish a loyal friend or subject for circumstances beyond their control.” Emma sat before me, her tearful eyes wide with disbelief. I could see the pain she carried—an unbearable burden of guilt and helplessness. She shook her head as if rejecting my absolution. “Now,” I continued, softening my tone, “wipe away those tears and focus. The world is full of wild beasts waiting for you to falter, waiting to pounce the moment you let your guard down. You’re not one to surrender so easily, Emma. You’ve fought hard for the freedom you desire, and I’ve seen that struggle. I