The sterile halls of Chaldea hummed with the quiet sounds of machinery and soft footsteps echoing in the stillness. It had been two weeks since Gudako Fujimura, Master of Chaldea, had summoned one of her most peculiar and dangerous Servants—Hannibal Lecter, the Assassin-class chef with a taste for the macabre.

Gudako had summoned many Servants before, but there was something different about Hannibal. His presence was unsettling, not because of any overt malice, but because of his unnerving calm, his sharp intellect, and the way he always seemed to be a step ahead. And yet, despite his unsettling nature, there was a strange comfort in the way he carried himself, as though every movement was calculated, every word chosen with care.

This morning was no different. As Gudako sat in her private quarters, the scent of something delicious wafted through the air. A soft knock at the door was followed by the smooth, cultured voice of Hannibal Lecter.

"Good morning, Master," Hannibal said as he entered, carrying a tray with a carefully arranged breakfast. "I've prepared something special for you—a protein scramble to start your day."

Gudako looked up from her paperwork, a bit surprised at the sight of him. "You really don't have to do this every morning, you know."

Hannibal smiled that ever-present, knowing smile as he set the tray down in front of her. "On the contrary, Master. It's my pleasure. After all, you've been so kind to me these past two weeks. It's only right that I repay that kindness."

Gudako hesitated for a moment, looking down at the plate. The food was beautifully arranged, as always, but she couldn't shake the nagging thought in the back of her mind—what exactly was in it? Hannibal had an… unconventional approach to cuisine, after all. But so far, every meal he'd prepared had been safe. Delicious, even. Still, the thought lingered.

"You say that, but it's a little hard to trust a guy with your… reputation," Gudako said, her voice trailing off as she picked up her fork.

Hannibal's smile widened slightly, but his eyes remained calm, almost amused. "I understand your hesitation, Master. But you'll find that I am quite capable of restraint when I choose to be."

Gudako raised an eyebrow, but took a cautious bite of the scramble. As always, the flavors were rich, perfectly balanced, with just the right amount of seasoning. She had to admit—he was an exceptional cook. Even if his methods sometimes raised questions.

"You've adjusted well to life here in Chaldea," Gudako said after a moment, setting down her fork. "I didn't expect that from someone like you."

Hannibal tilted his head slightly, his gaze thoughtful. "I find Chaldea to be a fascinating place. So many Servants, each with their own histories, desires, and complexities. It's a rich tapestry, one that I enjoy observing."

Gudako nodded slowly. "But you're not just observing, are you? You've been… helpful. Cooperative."

Hannibal's smile softened, though it never quite reached his eyes. "As I said, you've been kind to me. And kindness, when genuine, should be repaid in kind. I've found our arrangement to be mutually beneficial."

Gudako leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms as she studied him. "You're not exactly what I expected when I summoned you."

Hannibal met her gaze, his expression unreadable. "I imagine I am not what most people expect. But I am content to play the role that is required of me."

There was a pause, the air between them thick with unspoken understanding. Gudako had dealt with dangerous Servants before, but Hannibal was different. He wasn't driven by revenge, power, or conquest. He was driven by something else—something more subtle, more insidious. And yet, there was a strange sense of trust building between them, a fragile balance that neither of them seemed eager to disturb.

"I've been meaning to ask," Gudako said, breaking the silence. "Why are you being so cooperative? You're not exactly the obedient type."

Hannibal's smile returned, a slight twinkle in his eyes. "Ah, Master. Is it so strange to believe that I might simply enjoy your company? You've provided me with a place where I can exist without the complications of my past life. I find that refreshing."

Gudako frowned slightly, unsure whether to be flattered or unnerved. "So, this is just… convenience for you?"

Hannibal leaned forward slightly, his voice lowering to a near whisper. "It's more than that. You've shown me respect, despite your knowledge of who I am. You've allowed me to express my talents without judgment. That, Master, is something I value deeply."

Gudako felt a chill run down her spine at his words. There was sincerity in his voice, but also something darker lurking beneath the surface. Hannibal was, after all, a predator. And yet, in these past two weeks, he had shown her nothing but loyalty.

"I suppose I should be grateful, then," Gudako said, her voice steady despite the unease gnawing at her.

Hannibal leaned back, his smile returning to its usual serene state. "Gratitude is unnecessary, Master. I am simply fulfilling my role, as any good servant should."

There was another pause, the silence between them filled with the quiet sounds of the world outside. Gudako finished her breakfast, still thinking over Hannibal's words. He was an enigma, to be sure. But for now, at least, he seemed content to serve.

"I'll be heading out on a mission soon," Gudako said after a moment. "I'll need your help."

Hannibal stood, his movements smooth and graceful. "Of course, Master. I am at your disposal."

As he turned to leave, Gudako called after him. "Hannibal."

He paused, glancing over his shoulder with a raised eyebrow. "Yes, Master?"

Gudako hesitated for a moment before speaking. "You've been… helpful. More than I expected. I appreciate that."

Hannibal's smile softened, a genuine warmth creeping into his expression. "As I said, Master. You've been kind to me."

And with that, he left the room, leaving Gudako alone with her thoughts. There was something unsettling about the way he said those words—you've been kind to me—as though they carried more weight than she fully understood. But for now, she pushed the thought aside. There were missions to prepare for, battles to fight, and she needed every ally she could get.

Even if that ally happened to be Hannibal Lector.

AN: Gonna try to pump as many chapters as I can. So many horror icons, so little time.

Get ready for the next chapter- cuz this one's a screamer!