You'll be ok I am sure about retaliation, but you are giving yourself a massive warning to be very careful to avoid such confrontations. There are some real powder kegs out there. You know this. I pride myself on taking the 'hit' and getting out of it with safety assured. That is the clever and strong thing. But it is also a buzz for me to be able to have such control. Then I look at my nice little life and think what a good boy am I. None of that crap for me. that is the way to get 'em: just leave them stewing in their own crap, you don't have to do a thing. then give yourself a special pat on the back. Don't let 'em get to you. Don't let 'em be able to have any hold on you.