Argus watched the man walk toward them. He looked an average man, perhaps a bit short of stature. But not a man who would normally be noticed. Argus wondered why the man was coming toward them with purpose but wasn't alarmed. He felt secure with Smith standing at his side. Adding to his security, he felt that he could communicate with the Smith, using short, simple words. He thought of this as his secret; how to communicate with Smith.<br/><br/>It was a surprise to Argus that the man seemed to know how to communicate with Smith in a way that he thought to be his secret. And the message was indeed urgent. Argus turned when Smith turned and saw the smoke. And when Smith ran off Argus felt his security leave with him and his vulnerability return.<br/><br/>And Argus noted the man had given him a slight nod as he left. He wondered if this was a warning of some sort or perhaps it was just a nod of acknowledgment. He couldn't be sure.<br/><br/>He watched the man enter the tavern. He wondered if there was a purpose to go to the tavern, or if he was merely going for his morning meal.<br/><br/>Argus was rattled by the turn of events. A few moments ago things were going well. Now things had changed. He was no longer sure of anything.<br/><br/>One thing he was sure of though; he would be watching this man. And then the thought came to him that perhaps the man is watching<i>him.</i>