"I wouldn't dare underestimate a women of your regard," mused Edward in a low, somewhat engaging tone. And he meant it, too. He idly wondered if she would take such a statement with more than a grain of salt; after all, part of his innumerable techniques concerning manipulation often involved informing people of truth. Fact typically blindsides the most adamant of revolutionaries and stalwart citizens. But their was the obvious risk that Ms. Hand fell into neither category... And yet, Edward wasn't overly concerned about pinpointing Hand's entire personality just yet. After all, he was in the company of a particularly attractive, sharp woman. Business aside, it wouldn't be unheard or to simply enjoy the time ahead of him.

He could deal with the duality of the situation. He was Edward Nygma. He was a Gothamite, for crying out loud.

"Mm? Oh yes, this type of madness is really rather my forte," said Edward as he slyly offered an arm to escort Victoria into the coffee shop. A bit pretentious of a move, to be sure, but not an insincere one. "Just the society I grew into, I suppose. No doubt you'll hear all sorts of interesting things in the days to come."

Not necessarily something he was dredging. It was more a matter of controlling the spin of information here.