Went to check the hive today, in addition to adding a second strap around the hive, and setting the screws for the mouse guard in preparation for winter. Pulled the top box off, lifted the bottom box and base together, just enough to slip the strap under and set gently back down. I had intended to pull frames and get a good look down in both boxes, but never made it that far. All of a sudden, they went crazy. I smoked them, put the second box back on, and things went crazier.
The kids who were playing in the field on the other side of the house were getting chased and stung, I got at least 15 on my back. I managed to get the inner cover back on, and when I went for the outer cover I noticed a few wasps fighting with the bees. Smashed the wasps with my hive tool, flipped them off into the grass, and got the outer cover back on. It seemed like half the hive was all over the front and sides of the hive when I went to put the outer cover back on. I never managed to put the strap back around the hive. I figured let them settle down and I will get it put back on in a day or two.
My best guess is the wasps decided to crash the party, and I was the unfortunate one to be present at the time. No amount of smoke would move them or calm them. There was no diverting their attention.
At least they should be ready for winter, as both boxes are nice and heavy.