We arrived at the house, the lot of us invited by a host that still hadn't seen fit to reveal his — or her — identity. A simple card, written in a careful hand, and delivered by personal messenger. That was the only communication any of us had received.

As we milled in the hall, I looked at the other guests. Each of them striking in their own way, with easy smiles and guarded eyes. The eyes of people with secrets. This was going to be a most intriguing evening.

Stories of the day:

• 'Major' Microsoft reorg expected by July 1st as Ballmer contemplates single 'Windows' division
• Sony and Disney begin streaming movies still in theaters in a bold move against piracy
• Snapchat's new SnapKidz feature is all snapping without any chatting

Written by Bryan Bishop and Nathan Cykiert. Video by John Lagomarsino and Christian Mazza.