[everything about Krouse, from what Hannibal sees, is on the brink of a break. bits and pieces of the young man is cracking right in front of him and he meets it with a polite indifference. he can observe Krouse with an added separation, blanketed by professionalism.

he's showing symptoms of PTSD and likely a severe lack of sleep. the situation has to be treated delicately. he's seen how the seekers have been hunting those who protect their plushies so dearly, seen how it can cause a severe trauma response to those who are caught in public, defenseless.

yet Krouse is coming to him, asking for assistance despite everything likely telling him to continue guarding himself.]

I can help you, Krouse, but as I would help a patient; not for an exchange.

[he's well aware that Krouse will likely feel as if he owes him anyway, which is where he wants him. there's a small pause as he sips his own cup of tea. he's calculated, careful with his next words.]

You're in a very delicate headspace right now. I think the most appropriate way to approach this may include a form of therapy I'd prefer your consent for. [an excuse to test what he managed to find in the hospital on a human instead of animals.] Excuse my blunt words, but I have to ask, might you resort to violence while you're here?