[ Hickey smiles at that, leaning in a little bit, eyes on Irving's face, intent. Maybe it's the strange-tasting tea, or maybe it's because it's just so easy to rattle Irving, but— ]

'Be more careful,' Is that a threat, sir?

[ He keeps his voice low, although his tone is light. ]

What happens if I disobey? Would you punish me yourself, this time? If you're certain that your rank gives you the authority that that line on your throat doesn't.