After talking to the dean on Friday, Hannibal had unfortunately gotten caught up in handwavy other things, so had decided to give the man a few days to relent. Not that he expected it, but you never knew.

Eventually, though, he did call Sparkle. And got his voicemail.

"This is Dr. Lecter. I spoke to the dean about your friend Atton." There was an audible sigh. "There is some cautiously good news, but I'm afraid on the whole it was a waste. Please call me, or drop by my home if you prefer."