[If Hannibal weren't elusive to an extreme degree, he and Chilton would already be talking with bars or glass between them. He was far too smart to be caught (or so he'd thought, but then he'd never met anyone quite like Will Graham before), and he took necessary precautions to make sure that stayed a reality. Working with Chilton? It wouldn't influence Hannibal's ability to stay under the radar.

Working for Chilton? It was a matter of pride. It was a matter of the man not being competent enough for Hannibal to even consider it. While Chilton may have thought there was a power struggle where Hannibal couldn't really think of it that way (again, he was nowhere near Hannibal's level, as far as he was concerned), anything that could make sure he knew there was no power Chilton could lord over him, the better.

It was easier to hide behind wanting to be his own boss as opposed to saying as much and risk possibly insulting him.]

I have become a bit more acquainted with the criminally insane as of late, though I can't speak to whether it has been good for anything more than added knowledge. [A reprieve? Chilton's views were far more skewed than that had any right to be. Not that Hannibal could judge. Righteously, at any rate.] I would be interested in that from a scientific standpoint, definitely. I appreciate the offer, Frederick, and would like to take you up on it soon.

[Wrapping Chilton around his finger was one thing. Getting so close? Another. And it was wonderful.]