LAYING THE GROUNDWORK

The meeting with Mr. Cervelli was scheduled for seven p.m. with Hannibal strongly, but graciously suggesting the event be held at his home. In lieu of an official meeting Hannibal informed the setting would be, for all intents and purposes, a social event. He further required Mr. Cervelli turn up to dinner with both his children and his lovely wife, believing this would be the perfect chance to bring their families together for the sake of appearances. Hannibal's plan assumed Magdalena would become his informational pipeline to Chavez, effectively leaking what specific facts the good doctor wished passed to the drug kingpin.

For his part, Cervelli was not in a hurry to show up to Hannibal's home without what he believed to be a good enough reason. In his mind, the risk wasn't worth the reward. Terrified, he qualified the rejection, "There is no need, Doctor Lecter. Really, you are doing so much for my family as it is, I don't wish to inconvenience you further."

Amused by the weak protests, imagining he could detect the stench of fear through the phone, Hannibal countered, "If you did not wish to inconvenience me, you would not have involved me in the first place."

The moment of silence told Hannibal, Mr. Cervelli had yet to concede.

Cervelli indicated, "That is my point. My family and I've put you to so much trouble I'm embarrassed to ask any more of you."

Know one knew better than Hannibal Lecter the affect he had on people. In fact, no one enjoyed more the fear he could instill with a wink or a wave. The friendliest of gestures set hearts pounding, therefore he understood fully why Cervelli balked at the invitation but Hannibal ignored the veiled protests. Diplomatic to the last, he insisted, "Am I correct that you have a large overseas shipment of live animals and fleece products planned in just two weeks time?"

Cervelli paused, his voice returning quietly, "Yes, that's correct."

He had him now. There was no way Cervelli could argue this logic. Continuing his line of questioning, Hannibal asked, "And will not Chavez expect to conceal large quantities of his product within that shipment?"

Again, a faint, almost whispered response, "Yes, that is what I've been told."

Pursuing the weakness, Hannibal cut to the chase, advising, "Would it not be in your best interest to have this situation concluded prior to that shipment?"

The voice at the end of the phone went silent.

Knowing he had Cervelli dead to rights and needing this meeting for his plan to come off, Hannibal cross-examined with the skill of a prosecutor, interrogating, "And would it not be best if Chavez truly believed we are more than mere acquaintances, Mr. Cervelli?"

Desperately attempting to avoid being drawn into what he believed was Hannibal's web, Cervelli offered, his voice quivering with fear, "I thought it would be enough to tell him that we're friends. I didn't think it would be necessary to actually see each other socially."

Intentionally lowering his voice to appear as if he had taken umbrage, Hannibal spoke, "Am I not fit company, Mr. Cervelli?"

Believing this very dangerous man had indeed resented his comment, Cervelli responded protectively, stammering, "I…I didn't mean to…to suggest..."

Overcome, Cervelli could not finish the comment leading Hannibal to offer, "Whatever your intention, that is precisely what you did suggest."

This game of cat and mouse immensely pleased Hannibal. In order to insure that each family member was present, he needed to convince Cervelli that anything less would be taken as a personal affront. The man would need to be terrified that Hannibal would not act to protect if he took exception to his treatment. The silence so much screamed Cervelli's fear into the phone that Hannibal knew he had won.

Praying an apology might atone, Cervelli begged, "Please, please, don't be angry with me, Dr. Lecter. I appreciate everything you've done for my family. You are a great man…truly, I meant no offense."

"None taken, but keep in mind if you are using me as your pit bull, you might at least assist my efforts to keep up appearances."

Finally conceding to the power of Hannibal's reasoning, Cervelli relented, "Yes, I do see that."

Providing the coup de grace designed to end the debate, Hannibal asserted, "I understand your fear of me, Mr. Cervelli and your desire to keep as far away from me as possible. Trust me when I say you will not need to worry about my presence in your life for much longer as I have not want, nor need of your friendship. Let us also keep in mind that I did not seek you out. It was you who entreated me. When the threat to both our families has been nullified, you will never hear from me again. You might at least make some attempt to keep up your end of the bargain. If not, I will do what I have to do to protect my family and will no longer consider the safety or well being of yours."

His throat still gripped with fear, Cervelli's voice cracked, "Exactly what do you mean when you say the situation will be concluded?"

Far more intelligent than to be so easily entrapped, Hannibal returned, "That can be discussed tonight, Mr. Cervelli. Such conversations are better left in person."

Embarrassed he hadn't considered how foolhardy it would be to have that particular conversation over the phone. Regrouping, he agreed, "Yes…yes, I understand."

Unaffected either way, Hannibal confirmed, "Then I shall see you and your lovely family at seven?"

Nervous to agree, but understanding the need for such an event Cervelli was penitent, affirming, "My apologies and thank you for your patience, Doctor Lecter. We will see you tonight."

Needing to add one very important fact, Hannibal quickly inserted, "Before you go, allow me to explain that we are having some measure of difficulty with the security system at the compound. When you arrive, activate the intercom at the main gate and I will provide the security code for you to input manually. There is an electrical problem with the system therefore I cannot set the alarm, nor can I activate the lock remotely from the home. Damned troublesome, but the security company cannot repair the system before Monday. Please allow me to apologize in advance for the inconvenience."

"Not at all, thank you, Doctor Lecter. I'll remember to do just that. Goodbye."

"Ciao."

The groundwork so carefully laid, Hannibal set out to search the rooms for his aunt knowing Clarice was busy in the next room feeding lunch to their son. Searching the air, he realized Lady Murasaki was on the next level of the home. She would have to be on board for this plan to come off without a hitch. Walking to the upper level, Hannibal found her working busily in the laundry room.

Rapping his knuckles on the door requesting entrance, Hannibal leaned informally against the doorframe, questioning casually, "Good morning, my aunt. Did you sleep well?"

Pleased to have Hannibal addressing her in such an informal fashion, Lady Murasaki thrilled, "Yes, Hannibal. I've slept well every night in this house, thank you."

"Not at all. You are a treasured member of our family and are, of course, most welcome. Do you have a moment? I should like to talk to you about a matter of great importance."

Her head turning quickly, Lady Murasaki smiled widely. He was showing a level of trust in her that he had not previously. This was something that was obviously important to her nephew. She would not let him down.

"Please, I'd be thrilled to help in any way I can."

Nodding as if he expected just that answer, Hannibal continued, "You have been aware of the threat to my family?"

This would be a serious conversation. Having been attending to baby clothing, Lady Murasaki paused mid-fold, responding solemnly, "Yes Hannibal, I've been very aware and very careful."

"Of that I am certain. I will have need of your assistance tonight, if you are amenable. Mr. Cervelli and his family will be arriving for dinner. His daughter, Magdalena is very heavily involved with the man I consider a great threat to our family."

Our family. The moment he said it, her heart swelled. The pairing of two simple words and she instantly knew she was fully accepted. In Hannibal's eyes she was now a part of his family. She would do whatever was required to protect those they loved. Perhaps old wounds were healing…maybe forgiven, as well.

After placing the folded clothing atop the finished items in the laundry basket, Lady Murasaki reached for Hannibal, gently grasping his forearm as she avowed, "Ask anything of me. Anything, Hannibal, and it will be done."

Recognizing the earnest nature of the affirmation, Hannibal covered her hand with his, explaining his thoughts. "I would like you to give Magdalena a tour of the home with particular focus on the master suite and young Hannibal's room. There are also several very specific points of which I would like you to make her aware, though it is important she have no idea that is our intent."

This seemed an odd, perhaps, even dangerous request. If she was going to do this, she would need to know what Hannibal was thinking.

"Might I ask why?"

Releasing her hand, Hannibal hefted the large basket of laundry and lifted his chin, directed her to lead the way. He continued to speak as they walked through the home. Their destination: the baby's room.

"Of course you may. I am requesting you to do so because I wish to set a trap for Chavez. The most expeditious method would be to leak information to Magdalena, but the information must be exceedingly specific for this to work."

Pausing just outside the laundry room, the concerned aunt began assessing the situation, questioning, "And you are you certain she is providing information to this man?"

Matching her stop Hannibal waited, speaking candidly he suggested, "As certain as one can be based on her past behavior. You needn't volunteer to escort her about the home, as I am quite certain she will make the request. It is far too tempting for her to pass up an opportunity to be of service to Chavez. She will most assuredly ask for a tour."

"You don't believe she will ask either you or Clarice?"

"No, I am quite certain she will not. Magdalena would be suspicious if either Clarice or I were to offer to show her around, as she knows we do not trust her. There is a chance because of your graceful nature and humble demeanor she will assume you can be easily manipulated."

Still perplexed, Lady Murasaki walked to the nursery with Hannibal matching her pace. It took her two or three steps to process his suggestion before asking, "And that's a good thing?"

Hannibal nodded emphatically, "Yes, that is exactly what we want her to believe… that she can outsmart you. This is a woman who thinks her powers of persuasion are superior. She is unaware of our relationship and that, too, is an advantage."

Lady Murasaki continued to the baby's room with Hannibal following dutifully. Upon entering, she directed Hannibal set the basket on the large ottoman in front of the oversized armchair designated the reading area.

Unsure she understood the benefit, she continued to question, "How is that an advantage?"

Standing tall, his bearing regal, Hannibal spoke with confidence, as he asserted, "It is a tremendous advantage."

"Why?"

Hannibal's eyebrow arched as if the answer should have been plain.

"Because she has no idea you are a Lecter."

Lady Murasaki began transporting baby clothing back and forth from the basket to Devyni's wardrobe. Her posture was straight, but her head remained bowed as she whispered, "But...I am a Lecter by marriage alone."

Stepping in front of his aunt to block her passage to the basket, Hannibal took her hands in his. Seeking her eyes, he bowed low, waiting for her to look up. When finally their eyes met, Hannibal emphasized, "That is enough. Lecter men choose their spouses well, respecting strength and intelligence. My uncle did not marry you for your beauty, though it is great. He married you for your morality, your brilliance and your tenacity. You are absolutely fierce in your devotion to your family. Though we have not agreed on everything, there was a time I needed your help and you did not let me down. I am asking your assistance once more."

Bringing his hands to her face, she kissed them briefly and pressed them to her cheek, responding, "Anything…Everything."

"Thank you, my dear aunt. Let me tell you my plan."

Though he heard every word she said, Chavez didn't believe Magdalena when she explained her plans for the evening. "Why the hell would Lecter invite you, or anyone for that matter, to his home? You're lying."

Curling around Chavez's body much like a cat would entwine around its owner's leg, Alena entreated, "Why don't you believe me? I am telling you the truth, I swear on my life! I am going to the Lecter's for dinner. My father has told you on numerous occasions that he and Hannibal are friends. Why don't you believe the man would invite us?"

Attempting to unwrap her from his body, Chavez insisted, "Because your father is a liar. He is no more a friend to Hannibal Lecter than I am. It is simply a tale he tells everyone to make me fear him. It doesn't make any sense that Lecter is allowing you and your family to see the layout of his home. It makes him vulnerable."

Having been peeled from Chavez like skin from a banana, Alena crossed her arms and pouted like a petulant child. "He doesn't consider my parents a threat, he considers them friends. And why would having a group of friends to dinner make a person vulnerable? Why would he think they would do something to hurt him, they go to the same church for god's sake."

Unmoved, Chavez commented, "I know many sinners who sit in the pews of churches."

"What do you want me to do, tell them I won't go?"

"I'm not sure…I have to give this some thought."

Pacing up and down the main aisle between the rows of stalls, Alena warned, "You don't have much time to think about this Chavez. My father insisted we go together as a family and warned that I be ready by six-thirty. He said it would be rude to be late, so either I'm faking sick and upsetting my father or I go into the lion's den and get you every bit of information you need to know."

The devious little wheels began to turn in Chavez's head. In his mind he was outsmarting Hannibal Lecter. With video he wouldn't need anyone else and would not have to chance someone turning on him. With Alena's help, he could do this alone.

Grabbing Alena by the arm, he pulled her close, whispering, "You swear on the lives of your family you can get me video inside his home?"

Not appreciating being manhandled a mere ten feet from the stall in which she'd been violated by Chavez and his men, Alena drew back her arm, slapping him across the chest with such ferocity her palm stung. "Watch where and how you touch me. I said I can get you video of what ever you want. You just have to tell me what to look for."

Ignoring the slap but mouthing at the hook Hannibal so carefully baited, Chavez responded greedily, "Everything! I want to know everything! I need to know the layout of the home, the security system, search for weaknesses…anything I can capitalize on. If I'm meant to face San La Muerta, it must be on my own terms. He's very crafty so I'll need every advantage."

Reaching into her hip pocket, Alena produced her cell phone. Dangling it like a carrot in front of a mule, she wagged it back and forth, promising, "I'll take video and photos with my phone. We can be in constant contact throughout the night. You will see what I see."

Leaning his forearms against the roughly hewn timbers of the stall's railing, Chavez had a faraway look in his eye. He was planning the grisly scene. In his mind's eye, he could see the moment of Hannibal's death, could feel the blade passing between the ribs. Smiling as if it were happening right before his eyes, Chavez imagined the no-longer-fierce man, bound, gagged and very slowly bleeding to death.

Better yet, what if he were gasping out his last as the drug lord took his wife. Yes. Clarice, she was called. She was a handsome woman. Yes, he would do just that. He would use his hands to crush the tiny skull of the man's child and just before Hannibal died, Chavez would rape his wife. There would be nothing he could do but sit and watch her being screwed senseless. Chavez wondered, could he make her moan just as the life ebbed from her husband's body? Would he cry? Beg for mercy? It will be perfect.

"If I hit him at home where his guard is down he won't be carrying a weapon, and there he has much to protect. There he's vulnerable."

Seeing just how excited Chavez was at the prospect, Alena encouraged his depravity, asking explicitly, "Will you catch him in his bed…with his wife, perhaps?"

"I'll pull him from within his wife's body if need be, but first, I'll pay a visit to his son. Alena, be sure to find the boy's room and measure it in relation to Hannibal's bedroom. Get me video evidence if you can. If I can enter the home in the middle of the night and get hold of his son, I will have the control of the situation. He will be at my mercy."

"Do you think he's going to let me walk around the house unaccompanied? He doesn't trust me."

"Ask his wife. Women love showing off their homes."

"Maybe. She's ex-FBI."

Lowering his voice to avoid being overheard, Chavez advised, "Just ask for the bathroom. If you're wandering around you can just tell them you got lost or you got curious. Compliment the home. He's an arrogant bastard. Appeal to him. You said he wanted you. Get on your hands and knees and suck him off under the table if you have to but get me the layout of that house."

Again, Magdalena slapped Chavez. "Don't disrespect me, you bastard, or you can get the information yourself. It's not like you can beat him without me. He is a lion. You're nothing more than a lamb in his eyes."

Chavez grabbed for Magdalena' hands, gripping her wrists to stop the slapping. He was more concerned with Hannibal than anything Magdalena might do to him.

"We will see. Even the mighty lion can be captured if the trap is properly baited. Get me the information and I'll set the trap. Are there servants? Does anyone work or live in the home aside from Hannibal and Clarice?"

Kicking at the straw on the floor of the building, Alena wondered whether it was the same straw on which she'd been abused. Anger rising within, she was becoming unsure of why she was helping Chavez at all, noting, "There is. I've seen them at church and at market with an elderly Asian woman. The way she dotes on the baby, I assumed she was some kind of a nanny. She definitely hovers over the boy."

Turning toward Magdalena, Chavez became unusually animated, boasting, "Trust me when I say that she is the answer. Ask her to tour you around. Talk about the baby and how you would love one of your own. Ask to see the nursery. Women are suckers for baby talk, she won't be able to resist."

What do you know about women, you animal! She held her tongue, instead agreeing, "That's a great idea, I'm sure that will work. Now that I've promised to help deliver Hannibal to you…what will you do for me? What do I get for dragging the lion by his scruff and staking him at your feet?"

Though her agitation was clear, Chavez was wholly unaware of her firmly entrenched resentment. He made what he believed would be a magnanimous gesture, offering, "If you deliver the information I need and your position may change. Prove that you are loyal and you will be trusted once more. You help protect me from the monster and perhaps you will be worthy of being my woman."

Prove that you are human and maybe I'll consider it, you animal!

Unable to hide her anxiety, she blurted out, "Worthy of being your woman? You are no more than human garbage. You passed me around like a dinner platter for your friends to feast off. A real man does not act like that toward a woman. A real man would kill anyone who touched his woman. Do you think Hannibal Lecter would allow any man to live if they had defiled his woman. He would kill that man and serve him for dinner. Instead of killing them, you served me up as if I were a meal."

"Prove yourself worthy and every man who offended you will die. You will hold the power of life or death over each of them."

The thought appealed to Magdalena. Not that she'd ask for their death, but the thought that she held that amount of control gave her an authority that she found incredibly empowering.

"I'll bring you everything you want and more and when I've told you every last weakness, you'll have each of the beasts who touched me apologize on their hands and knees, begging for their lives."

"You bring me Hannibal's weakness and you will have what you want."

Magdalena smiled imagining each of the men crawling through the dirt and straw of the barn floor. She pictured them on their hands and knees begging, crying for their lives as she lorded over them, deciding who would live and who would die.

"And if I so choose, you will slit their throats like the pigs they are?"

"Yes."

"Any of them?"

"All if that is your wish."

"I'll be leaving in an hour. I imagine I'll be home by eleven. Line up your animals, Chavez. I'll expect my payment tonight."

Alena extended her arm toward Chavez, dropping her hand at the wrist, waving it up and down as she waited. Dutifully, though the action was distasteful to him, he reached for her fingertips, bowed and kissed the top of her hand.

Smiling, Alena nodded. "Be ready to move on him. Don't underestimate the man…Hannibal Lecter is dangerous. Once you corner him, you'll have to kill him quickly."

"You get me what I need and I'll kill them all but not quickly. Hannibal will die as slow a death as any man has ever experience. This, I'm going to enjoy."

Until the next chapter, my friends!

LH