[Lance takes a longer drink from his glass at that, to give himself a moment for the flare of anger to pass after her first comment.]

That compliance lasts exactly as long as the threat does. And, if that threat goes on for too long, people get tired of living in fear.

[Whether individuals or groups, intimidation only lasts so long.]

Even if it works infallibly--which I doubt--in your world, why would you assume it would here? I'm not sure if you've noticed, but most of the people in this place don't scare easily.