This time, when Xanadu's power went out, it was on a bright, sunny summer day.
First there was a loud crack from the direction of the meadow; it sounded like thunder, but there were no clouds in the sky. Rumor has it there were woodcrafters out working on something, and some even claim there was a bright flash - like lightning, except for that bit where there were no clouds. Even the smell of ozone was the same!
Those further away reported electrical devices flickering on and off - or sometimes, shorting out entirely, shocking the people trying to use them, or beginning to smoke - before finally going off for good as the electricity was cut off at the source after an urgent radio message to the hydroelectric plant.
The incident has left behind a trail of shattered light bulbs and broken machines, and left the Weyr without power.
Now there's a hole in the ground near the river with a fence around it. Hung on that fence are signs warning of electrical danger. Nobody's allowed close - well, except the techies working hard, bundled up in rubber boots and gloves like they're about to go splashing through puddles afterward.
In the wake of this, some are claiming that the Weyr is too reliant on dangerous technology. Perhaps the old ways really are better…
-Posted by Jethaniel on Dec 22, 2012