Worn out and gasping, trembling with agonizing excitement, Genik pushed apart the dense branches of the shrub and stepped onto the garden path. His heart hammered wildly, pounding in his chest, and driving a rush of hot blood toward his head. Several times, he greedily and deeply inhaled—then suddenly he felt a sharp weakness spread through his entire body. His knees began to buckle; in his legs there was trembling, and in his ears a thin ringing sound. After walking a little down the alley, Genik sank heavily onto the nearest bench…