"Oh, it's completely illegal." He waves a hand dismissively. "But since when has illegality been a genuine concern in Gotham? I worked the GCPD, I know how little that matters."

This place isn't freedom. Even those 'little freedoms' are gilding on an iron maiden. To be a slave and be grateful that your owner doesn't choose to debase you completely...

That's not freedom.

Ed lowers his gaze, absently rubbing under his chin with his thumb, like he might feel the mark. Or take it off.