Syrus took a moment to catch his breath. He peered into the distance and listened intently, his ears erect. Aside from the usual morning bird and insect noises, he picked up a soft plodding of dainty feet. It was most definitely the girl. He edged closer in the direction of the sound. Now he detected mud. Wrinkling his nose in disgust, he sighed and pushed the surrounding greenery out of his way.