Not feeling this proves they know each other in real life, although it certainly demonstrates a camaraderie and at times a common goal. Which is obvious by their own admissions and actions. Not sure what I was expecting really when I said yes though to be fair.

People today (and for many years I noticed when I first got online around aol 7.0) will talk to one another and actually feel they are the best of friends with strangers they interact with online. People who can say they are whatever they want. I noticed this with my son as he was growing up. He has many "online" friends, a few of whom he actually has met in real life and become actual friends with. Most though have been and will always be friendly acquaintances, although he views them as "good" friends. I don't get it myself, just describing what I have seen. Had I not witnessed this dynamic, I probably would have seen more in the interactions you posted, as you have.

Kudos for your patience in searching the chain though. That's what brings me back to your posts. Your posts detailing histories that you have researched fascinate me. Thank you.