[ He stops and takes a glance around. Looks like they're in the clear. Either they lost them, or the people got bored (possibly confused by him running off), and went to find some of the other new heroes to fawn over. ]

Lesson learned. Don't stand in one place long enough for them to start--

[ Makes a vague, waving motion with his hand. ]

--gathering around. Almost makes me miss the Cranks.