"What do you mean by that�"
"Sorry, but I need to go downstairs immediately," the instructor said hurriedly as he disappeared down the stairs. Uijae stared at the small framed photo again before placing it back in its spot. The resemblance between the two men really did make them look like brothers. Just then, Haeun popped her head around the corner.
"Uncle, whatâs going on?"
"Nothing. Just play a bit longer. I need to talk to the instructor."
"Okay!"
The murmuring voices from downstairs were growing louder. Uijae placed the frame back on the shelf and followed after the instructor. He stopped midway down the stairs and looked out over the entrance of the building, where a group of people had gathered. They were of various ages and genders, but all wore white clothing, with some holding picket signs.
**[Awakeners cannot be trusted!]**
**[Letâs overcome crises with our own strength!]**
"......"
Wearing white wasnât inherently an issue, but considering the picket signs and the chants calling for Awakeners to leave, it was clear enough.
*Are they with Prometheus?* Uijae thought, frowning as he observed the group. To his surprise, he recognized a few faces. They were local shopkeepers and residents from the neighborhood he used to see when he worked at the haejangguk restaurant. These were civilians, not Awakeners. A respectable-looking middle-aged man started speaking quietly to the instructor.
"Mr. Bae, have you thought about our offer?"n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om
"Iâm not sure what you mean," the instructor replied, his expression neutral.
"Oh, you know what Iâm talking about. We mentioned last time that youâd be a great addition to our group."