Author's note: Yes, it's been a while. Here's a chapter for you all.
The gallery of the courtroom was packed. Press and gawkers filled the seats to capacity. This was indeed a rare day; Dr. Hannibal Lecter had new attorneys. Tonight a new hearing would take place on Dr. Lecter's incarceration in the asylum.
Brain grinned to himself as he waited at the table. Next to him, Dr. Lecter stood on the furniture dolly, bundled up tight in his straitjacket and mask. On the table, Pinky capered and played.
The judge came in and sat down, bringing the court to order. He stared at Brain for a moment as if confused.
"In the matter of Lecter v. State, John Brain, attorney for Hannibal Lecter, wishes to challenge the terms under which Dr. Lecter is held in the asylum," the judge said. "Is this correct?"
Brain grinned widely. "Yes, your Honor," he said. "I have here the original search warrant that the police used to search Dr. Lecter's basement." The robotic suit's hand waved a piece of paper. Brain's voice was rolling and sonorous as he continued.
"As you can plainly see," he said, "this warrant was signed by Judge Sean Abrams." He handed it to the judge. "However, the signature on the warrant has an extra loop at the end, making it signed by 'Seam Abrams', and thus invalid. The search of Dr. Lecter's house was therefore unlawful."
The prosecutor stood up. "Now just a minute," he said. "Do you really expect to free a known cannibal and serial killer because of an extra loop on the search warrant?"
"You are no doubt aware," Brain said, "that in Hawaii it is illegal to stick pennies in your ear."
"That has nothing to do with anything!" the prosecutor said. "Simple justice requires that Dr. Lecter remain incarcerated."
"This is a court of law," Brain said. "Surely the esteemed prosecutor is aware that in Trenton, New Jersey it is illegal to wear a false face or disguise while herding sheep over the streets! And in Elkhart, Indiana, it is illegal for a barber to threaten to cut off a youngster's ears!"
The judge sighed. "Whatever the case may be, it seems that Mr. Brain is correct. The search of Dr. Lecter's home was illegal, and therefore I must set him free. Dr. Lecter, on behalf of the people of the State of Maryland, I must ask you nicely to change your cuisine."
He rapped his gavel, and all was said and done. The court officials hurriedly unstrapped Dr. Lecter from his dolly and let him go. Brain walked with him out to the street.
"Thank you for arranging that, Mr. Brain," Dr. Lecter said casually. "Now.if you'll be excusing me, I have a trip to Virginia to make. I have a former patient to see.and a former student to.speak with." He smiled coolly.
Brain halted. "Dr. Lecter, wait," he said. "Now you and I must collaborate on an inspirational book! We will place a subliminal message on each page that will read 'You will bow before the Brain'."
Dr. Lecter chuckled. "Whyever would I want to do that?"
Brain paused. "Surely a man of your intelligence would realize that the world will be better off under my domination than under its current governments."
Dr. Lecter eyed Brain calmly from his strange maroon eyes. "I care little to nothing for politics, Mr. Brain."
"But my superior intelligence can ensure that things that should happen will happen," Brain protested.
"Then you may dominate the world on your own, Mr. Brain."
Brain sighed. "Very well," he said. "You drive a hard bargain, Dr. Lecter. I'll make you this offer: when I rule the world, I will have Dr. Chilton put in your old cell."
Dr. Lecter's eyes seemed hooded as he looked intrigued. "Interesting, but I am quite capable of taking care of Dr. Chilton on my own."
Brain swallowed. "All right, then," he said. "I will also have Clarice Starling delivered to your residence. In a black negligee."
Dr. Lecter paused for an instant before putting out his hand. "Very well, Mr. Brain. You have a deal."
