Orion Strakhovich is a bald, middle-aged Russian academic of unknown sexual orientation who has been a guest lecturer at Miskatonic University and possesses an uncany knowledge of the occult.  Is known to have Tsarist ties and lost family members during the Revolution, but is nonetheless suspected of working for the Soviet government.  Has a nervous demeanor but contrastingly calm, almost cold manner of speech.  Finds Japan (where he has competed in chess tournaments) fascinating, even though mother Russia lost a war to it (or could that be the reason?). He seems to think his photography is much better than it actually is.  Often eats raw potatoes.