[Krouse makes himself small, practically turns belly-up under Hannibal's commanding gaze. he gives away nothing. in truth, the boy is here and asking for assistance when he could have gone on and continued to allow what that thing causes. he didn't have to hunt him down, the prey had come to him all on his own.

the same can't be said for many others. school counselors don't count, in his opinion, all very briefly educated and shoved into a system that they themselves couldn't put enough effort into. there are hardly diamonds in that industry and from what Krouse has told him, it was implied he was barely catered to.]

For your protection, and also for mine, I'd like to suggest something in addition. If you're comfortable.

[nothing about Krouse reads as comfortable to him. all sweat, fear, desperation and blood. it leaves a sour taste in his mouth. porcelain sauce and tea return to the table between them and he stands, making his way to the desk nearby to open a drawer. did he predict this?

he takes pride in how controlled he is, feeds off of discomfort in ways that others can't. it's as if Krouse's shaky behavior lends him even more power, creates more space between them as doctor and patient.

he holds up syringe. it's filled with something. pale, clean.]

I'm worried about there being certain triggers. This is a highly sensitive time for you. [so easy for him to string those words together, nearly a seduction as he holds the syringe up for Krouse to see. it sounds like a cares. in a way, he does.] This will allow you to discuss things with me without attachment, without fear. It's something I believe is close Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic.

[which will make it all the more easier to tear that little creature from his person.]