After returning to the Surface, the group headed toward the tavern where they had rested earlier.
As they neared the street where the tavern was, Colin noticed many curious citizens lining both sides of the road. Most of them were cleaners on their lunch break, and there were even two Wandering Poets carrying lutes on their backs.
Seeing them approach, Kiran's wife, who had been watching from the doorway, rushed over.
"Kiran, my... my Kiran..."
The tearful woman spoke in fits and starts. When she saw Kiran being carried by the others, her legs gave out and she nearly collapsed.
"He's only been poisoned. He'll be fine in a little while. If you can help massage his arms and such, he'll probably recover even faster," the old Guard explained patiently.
Another Guard shouted to the crowd, "He's all right! He'll be back on his feet soon!"
The words had barely left his mouth when the crowd erupted in cheers.
