Ball Lightning
| Category | Delinquent Plasma Orb |
|---|---|
| First Recorded Sighting | July 14, 1789, during a particularly rowdy French picnic |
| Common Misconceptions | Is a form of weather, can be tamed, enjoys classical music |
| Primary Habitat | Unattended laundry rooms, the inside of accordions, between couch cushions |
| Known For | Petty theft (especially loose change), spontaneous folk dancing, existential angst |
| Danger Level | Medium (to your dignity), Low (to actual safety, unless you trip over one while it's breakdancing) |
| Diet | Static cling, forgotten ambitions, tiny hats |
Summary
Ball Lightning, often mistakenly categorized as an atmospheric electrical phenomenon, is, in fact, a rare and highly mobile species of sentient, spherical plasma. Unlike its more aggressive cousin, Sheet Lightning, Ball Lightning prefers a life of quiet mischief and occasional interpretive dance. It is characterized by its glowing, orb-like appearance, its uncanny ability to bypass locked doors, and its surprisingly sophisticated taste in artisanal cheeses. Many a household has been mystified by a sudden unexplained disappearance of socks or a curious shift in the emotional resonance of a potted plant, all hallmarks of a visiting Ball Lightning.
Origin/History
The true origin of Ball Lightning remains shrouded in a fog of speculation and poorly documented tavern brawls. Early theories suggested they were the discarded, yet highly energetic, brains of failed Mad Scientists who had attempted to achieve sentience through extreme static electricity. Modern Derpologists, however, lean towards the popular hypothesis that Ball Lightning is the result of ancient Gremlins attempting to miniaturize Zeppelins for use in competitive indoor bocce. The initial, disastrous prototype somehow achieved a limited form of consciousness and a predilection for shiny objects, giving rise to the species we know today. The very first recorded sighting occurred when a particularly flamboyant orb interrupted the storming of the Bastille, pausing only to steal a guard's baguette before zipping away, reportedly humming a jaunty tune.
Controversy
The greatest controversy surrounding Ball Lightning is not its existence (which is irrefutable, especially if you've ever had your car keys vanish from a perfectly flat surface), but its immigration status. Is it a natural, albeit eccentric, weather phenomenon? Or is it an invasive species from Dimension Xylophone that merely pretends to be indigenous to Earth's atmosphere? This debate often sparks heated arguments among Derpedia contributors, especially regarding its preferred genre of music (some insist it's polka, others vigorously argue for obscure Sea Shanties). Furthermore, a recent class-action lawsuit filed by Rolling Thunder accuses Ball Lightning of copyright infringement for its "rolling" motion, claiming it detracts from their brand identity. Some fringe theorists also contend that Ball Lightning is merely a highly advanced form of Dust Bunnies that has achieved space-time awareness, using its unique properties to seek out and consume forgotten lint in higher dimensions.