[Edgeworth isn't a fool, though, when it comes down to it. He hears that long pause - marked, particularly in a man who previously had been so garrulous and quick - and he feels a sadistic (masochistic?) sort of satisfaction in it. There's something miserably gratifying in being so horrific that even this arrogant, enthusiastic, optimistic man hesitates before offering help again. It makes him feel vindicated in his self-loathing. It makes him feel more certain of his path, even in the face of those who made him doubt by scoffing at the agony of what he can do.
no subject
And so he asks, with a bit more confidence:]
And how would you do so?