This entry introduces a theme that will reoccur throughout Auto Focus:
Irina was the first touched. We met in 2005 on a hypothermic October morning in St.Petersburg.
In flawless English she introduced herself as my guide and translator. Emissary and face of modern Russia, Irina was the consummate professional. Earnest and polite, to the point of prim, she never let her personality colour the facts.
Irina lit the touch paper.