“People will believe the crisis is over because they want to believe their world is safe.”
In her pursuit of truth, Cia learns this disturbing propensity of human nature. The people condemn her for collapsing the corrupt system because they associate her with chaos. Through Cia's actions the corruption was made evident, upsetting the previous balance. In order to preserve their own sense of peace, the people condemn Cia for her involvement in the collapse of the system.
“Growing up, I was taught that it’s impossible to know what the right thing always is. The best you can do is to try to do what you think is right for yourself and the people around you.”
Cia believes her parents' instruction. They raised her to accept responsibility for herself. This is why when Cia becomes aware of corruption she is compelled to act, because she recognizes that the authorities are not making decisions for the good of their subjects.
“The title of 'leader' only brings authority if the officials and citizens you work with follow you. The term 'president' is meaningless if people turn to someone else for leadership.”
Cia confronts President Lee with his negligence in allowing the Commonwealth to become so corrupt. She accuses him of hiding behind his office instead of confronting his own ineptitude. Without the support of the body of students, President Lee has become another puppet. His power is in name only unless he chooses to exercise it for the benefit of his students.
“My father chose his side. Now I'm choosing mine.”
Cia is a strong-willed young woman. For her, the corruption of the school and the greater political system is personal because her father fought and died to establish this system. While he fought for it, she is forced to fight against the system in order to honor him.
