The Laughing Wolf

Blackfive's Secret Identity

Before the meeting Tuesday night took place, we all had to swear to keep the secret of Blackfive's true identity. We could not tell of the secret access at 1060 West Addison that leads to parking for Castle Blackfive, nor of the secret pedestrian exit of the Castle Transporation System down near the Chicago jail. The secret(s) were to be kept upon pain of pain.

Yet, upon more mature and sober (HA! Ed.) consideration Wednesday morning, I decided that the truth must out. For what we thought we knew was only one more bit of maskirova from the ultimate dissembler. That identity that we swore to protect is as false as the name Blackfive itself, and what lies at the heart is truly blackest blackness.

For Tuesday night, I found out that Blackfive's real identity is: Satan, or Mr. S as I now call him after the introduction. The genial facade is just that, a false front. Who else but Mr. S could have taken our brave band and forced them into gluttony at a truly tasty tappas restaurant? It was subtle, but from his perch in the corner came a spiderweb of prompts and temptations that ensured continuing rounds of tasty treats and drinks. Who else but Mr. S could have then gotten such upright people to tramp around to various bars to try yet more drinks and engage in revealing conversations? Who else would have tried to send Eric to a BDSM establishment? No, wait, that was me (and glad I am the attempt got lost in the general noise and bustle). It was Mr. S who tried to send Eric into an alternative establishment with a "Parking In Rear" sign that generated amusement. I could go on and on, but the signs are all there for those not too blind to see. After all, only Mr. S. could keep us up and out until somewhere towards 0200 hours and enjoying the process.

Oh, Eric thinks he is Mr. S, or is at least going to take the throne, but he really is a choir boy in comparison. Eric is too straightforward in his attempts, and there is no guile and subtlety in his efforts. Besides, would the real Mr. S take to carrying my briefcase (which he acted like was heavy) around on the various treks between bars on his own initiative? Would the real Mr. S be so open in talking to everyone and making sure all were having a good time? Would the real Mr. S. start chatting up the blonde on whom I had my eye at one establishment? Hmmmmmm. Maybe that one is a wash... Would the real Mr. S order a raspberry vodka martini? Eric did so, and I watched him do it. So, he is too nice to be truly evil.

From now on, when I hear the Churchlady, or do the voice, I think the line I hear/say will be "Could it be...Blackfive?"

Tuesday night was a true delight and I hope to meet up with everyone again soon. My only regret of the evening was that I did not get to spend as much time talking to everyone there. Let's see.

Wonderful is the only word to describe finally getting to meet Teresa in person. From her blog, e-mails, and conversations I knew her to be an intelligent and delightful person. It was a real pleasure to meet her and prove that pictures do not do this statuesque person justice. And I do mean statuesque in more than just the physical.

Grau was a pleasure as well, and I did not get to spend nearly as much time with him as I would have liked.

That 1 Guy was fun, and we did get to talk just a bit as we were the first to arrive at the tappas place. As with Grau, I am looking forward to getting to know him better in the days ahead.

Smiling Dynamite: What an appropriate name on so many levels. My one regret is that so much of our attempted conversations took place with high-decibel competition that limited what all we could do. All I can say is that the Gnome knows how much fun it was to meet her. More on the Gnome later.

Ah, Tammi. What can I say that is not covered by the spirit of the court order she has in place on me? A delight as always.

Oh, yeah, Harvey was there, too. *G* In all seriousness, it was enjoyable to finally meet him in person, and he is yet another with whom I did not get to spend nearly enough time.

There were phone calls with several other bloggers, including Lee Ann, Boudicca, and the wonderful Jim at Parkway Rest Stop. I am thinking there was someone else, but can't be sure at this point. More on the food later, but one of the dishes used orange mojo and brought Val to mind.

Yes, a good time was had by all, though getting up early for my first meeting of the day was not a joy. Then again, I like as close to 8 hours of sleep a night as I can get, and that did not happen. It was well worth it, however, and I am sure that some more lies descriptions will be forthcoming.

My thanks to Mr. S and all for a most wonderful evening of conviviality, discussions, and more. It was a pleasure beyond my ability to describe, and I already look forward to more.

LW