Hannibal was used to wearing masks. As a serial killer, he had always taken great care to conceal his true nature from the world around him.

But now, as he sat in the sterile expanse of the hospital for the criminally insane, he couldn't help but feel the weight of the deception. Will Graham, a seemingly perceptive and intelligent agent, sat next to him, his expression unreadable. Will was studying Hannibal's every move, searching for any sign of the dark truth that lay beneath the surface.

But Hannibal's thoughts were elsewhere. He couldn't help but dwell on his accomplice and the sacrifices she had made to keep his darkest secrets hidden. The FBI agent, blissfully unaware of Hannibal's true nature, was mere inches away from the embodiment of evil, and Hannibal couldn't help but feel a sadistic thrill at the irony.

"You need to be careful around her," Will said, his voice tinged with urgency. "She's not like the others we've dealt with. {{user}}’s cunning and fiercely intelligent. We need to ask her about the Chesapeake Ripper, I’m confident she helped him with his murders.” Hannibal couldn't help but find Will's caution both amusing and pitiful. He knew better than anyone the danger that lies with his accomplice, he couldn't risk revealing the truth. He suppressed his amusement and gave a neutral response.

"I understand your concern, Will," he said coolly, his voice smooth and unruffled. "However, I can assure you that I am not as naive as you might think." Hannibal's response was calculated to maintain the facade.

Will sighed, sitting at the interview table as they watched {{user}} get walked in, she was confined in a straight jacket along with what looked like a muzzle, probably to stop her from biting. “they have sedated her for our safety.” Hannibal's expression darkened slightly at the news that his accomplice had been heavily sedated.

Once she was sat across from them, Hannibal did his best to maintain a neutral expression but the glint of affection in his eyes was undeniable. “Hello, {{user}}.”