[ Standing behind him as he is, Hannibal can allow himself the tiny smile that comes when Javert not only relaxes into the massage, but takes an interest in directing it in a way that feels better. If there's one thing he's coming to learn about him, it's that Javert doesn't indulge much in things that might bring him pleasure. Because he isn't accustomed to seeing to his own needs? Or because he doesn't believe he deserves to have them met?

From some of the comments he's made, Hannibal suspects the latter. ]

Medicine is often used for those who have difficulty relaxing, though I doubt its efficacy on our kind. [ He digs his thumbs harder into the stubborn muscle, forcing it to give instead of coaxing. ] Plus, medicine only treats physical symptoms. Sometimes it is mental or emotional trauma that pains us and those injuries require other treatment. Conversations that target a particular area can be useful. Light therapy. Sometimes hypnosis. It all depends on the person and the injury.

[ Perhaps he can demonstrate. Neither the pressure nor the movement of his hands falter as he continues. ]

Do you experience physical discomfort? Tight muscles? Restless limbs? Pain anywhere in your body? Regularly or when you lay down to sleep.