Things did not appear to improve after Microsoft's CEO had issued an implicit threat. According to BetaNews, speculations derived from his threats are not so far fetched.

The company's response to BetaNews suggests that, if Ballmer was taken out of context, then at least Microsoft was in no mood to correct that context. At worst, it suggests the company may be comfortable with letting the "veiled threat" theory stand.

Some of these out-of-context remarks suggest that Microsoft is willing to sue. An ITWire columnist opines that Novell virtually 'sponsors' this latest attack. And in case you have not witnessed enough of Microsoft's verbal games, get a load of this:

Microsoft Corp. is making it hard for Mac owners and other potentially influential customers to adopt its new Windows Vista operating system.

Microsoft says the blockade is necessary for security reasons. But that is disputed. The circumstances might simply reflect a business decision Microsoft doesn't want to explain.

'Transparency' at it best, don't you agree? Or yet more of the FUD tactics, as well as extortionate, discriminatory licences. The question in many people's minds remains, "will Microsoft alienate its customers by attempting a lawsuit over IP?" It has just been slapped on the wrist with a $1.5 billion fine over patent infringement. Might it seek retaliation? The company has lost a lot recently. This includes Cuba and -- only yesterday -- South Africa. The Linux 'domino effect' has begun.