In this sentence from "the most dangerous game" by richard connell, what does the word zealous mean in these lines?

In this part of the story, Rainsford was already running away from General Zaroff in the woods. He was in urgent need to rest, so he climbed onto a tree, making sure he left no mark behind so that not even a hunter as passionate/devoted as General Zaroff could find him.

Therefore, your best answer is passionate/devoted.