Scarlett's Responsibilities [II]

Nobody said a word, so the silence in the library continued.

Brienne was confident about how things would end, while Scarlett was anxious.

Finally, Arnold sighed and said, "After much consideration, I need to make things clear to you, Scarlett. You are too important to this family—and to this country—to go around risking your life for other people."

Scarlett started to speak, but her father kept going. "I have no choice here. I am ordering you to cut ties with anyone who is dragging you down."

"Father, listen—"

"No, you listen," Arnold said. "You are the heir to this Order, and as the next president, every move you make impacts this country. Respecting prestige, maintaining order, and preserving dignity are paramount duties. You cannot afford to surround yourself with mediocrity."

"M–mediocrity?" Scarlett asked with eyes wide.

As far as she was concerned, this was the most ridiculous thing said in this conversation.