Panel 1: Voice over A half hour of paddling and the sun is up and the world comes alive. The waterway widens into small lakes and I watch bass and perch. Carpets of carp swim out of my way, cranes and heron, infinitely patient, take advantage of the larder. It’s amazing.

Panel 2: Voice over After six years in deep cover, this is a paradise. I should be paddling like hell to get to the hiding place, but I just sit for a while and stare. I’m probably being hunted, but this is the least stress I’ve felt in a very long time.