A Mirror in the Dark

"It's understandable for you to empathize with the victim as well, when you step in the mind of a killer," Hannibal said. "Fear, pain, violation, and death. Repeating the fantasy in the safety of your head so that you can regain control over the experience."

"My head doesn't feel very safe," Will muttered.

Hannibal inclined his head. "The methods we use to protect ourselves from monsters can become monstrous in their own right. Your mind seeks to protect you when you are overwhelmed, and maybe you see yourself as a victim in order to prevent yourself from actually becoming one."

"Or to prevent myself from becoming the killer."

"The two become one. If you destroy yourself, you cannot hurt others, and similarly, no one can hurt you."

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Will Graham is having disturbing fantasies about being the victim of horrific crimes. Hannibal wants to help him realize his desires.