A. Professional:
- If the relationship is considered entirely professional, it implies a formal and business-like connection. In a professional relationship, objections to changes might be expected, so Jo wouldn't be flabbergasted in this context.

B. Sycophantic:
- Sycophantic refers to someone who acts overly flattering or subservient to gain favor from someone important. If Marcus's relationship is seen as entirely sycophantic, Jo would be surprised when Marcus publicly expresses objections because it goes against the expected behavior of someone who is excessively flattering.

C. Prosaic:
- Prosaic means ordinary or commonplace. If the relationship is regarded as entirely prosaic, it suggests a routine and unremarkable connection. In such a relationship, objections might not be surprising, so this doesn't align with Jo's flabbergast.

D. Dissident:
- Dissident refers to a person who opposes official policy, especially in an authoritarian regime. If Marcus's relationship is considered entirely dissident, it implies a consistent opposing stance, and objections might not be unexpected.

E. Collegial:
- Collegial relates to a cooperative relationship between colleagues. If the relationship is seen as entirely collegial, it suggests a friendly and cooperative association. In a collegial relationship, objections might be less surprising, so this option doesn't align with Jo's astonishment.

In the given context, Jo's astonishment at Marcus publicly expressing objections indicates that the nature of their relationship was perceived as sycophantic, making option B, "sycophantic," the most suitable choice.

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