The RJK Hydropower Facility
An ancient powerhouse, restored to former glory
Purpose / Function
Though the history of the original damworks has been lost to time, the current facility provides hydroelectric power to much of the surrounding Northern areas of Urd, Skald, and Verthandi.
Valuables
The RJK is a fascinating piece of ancient Norn technology. Though extensively mapped and surveyed by RJ Kelley and his team over the years, researchers are still working to uncover the precise workings of some of the dam's inactive features. The empowerments and mechanworks of the active features have been replicated in newer facilities, and have contributed to the restoration of existing mechanworks which had previously lain dormant.
Alterations
Though earlier expedition work had done some minor work to the dam, most of the repairs were minor and maintenance in nature. True restoration did not occur until 264 ak, when extensive repairs were overseen by Robert Jeff Kelley.
Architecture
The rim of the RJK is lined with powerhouse facilities and a broad walk. It displays the characteristic "decadence" of mid-to-late Norna architecture: employing delicate and organic curves, geometric stability, and tendencies towards symmetry, but well-crafted and hearty. The concrete of the dam is made of an aggregate mixed with cement and volcanic ash (presumably harvested from earlier eruptions of Urd and Skald), which gives it a lasting, fracture-resistent set.
The inclusion of volcanic ash within the dam is characteristic of Norna concreteworks in the area: the mixture forms a rare hydrothermal mineral within a few years; over time the seawater reacts with the ash and mineral to create a superstrong reaction. It is this reaction that has provided for the incredible lifespan of the dam and of other Norn ruinworks.
History
The dam spent much of its known history as ruins, left more or less alone by the superstitious Northern Walkingfolk, and avoided by the O'pxan Elkfolk. It wasn't until early Ni'kashiga expansion into the North that attentions turned.
Following the successful conclusion of the Bean War, expeditionary treaties between the Ni'kashiga and their Northern allies were established. Teams began to move through the North, both to better map the area and to provide reconstruction aid to the Northern Anman, who had faced devastating losses in the war as well as following the eruption of the Calderas Volcano.
Originally tasked with the mapping of the Mihonton Watershed, the First Water River Mapping Expedition of 170501 found themselves caught by the sudden onset of the brutal Urd winter. Faced with unfavorable conditions, and combined with injuries to the expeditions Primary Seeker, the team was forced to select a wintering location rather than risk a return journey into known lands. To avoid their present location beside the steep walls of rapids, the team moved further Northward in order to seek stiller waters for fishing and water access. The additional journey brought them to the massive ruins of the Norna Dam, poised at the mouth of the sea.
As much of the dam was in disrepair, the team chose to build a small cabin next to the ruins until the safety of the ruins themselves could be ascertained. The subsequent study of the Norn symbols and the mapping of the layout of the ruins laid the foundations for later teams to decipher and complete the extensive repairs to the ancient machinations. The post-restoration name of the dam itself – the Robert Jeff Kelley Hydropower Facility, more commonly known as the RJK – is named for the Ranger Keeper Robert Jeff Kelley who first championed for the cause of restoration, and whose skill, inventiveness, and dedication led the full restoration and infrastructural integration of this ancient hydroelectric and desalination facility.
Today, this enormous structure is a glorious and functional national landmark. Nestled at the mouth of the First Water River on the slopes of Urd, the RJK provides over 4.5 billion megawatt hours per year to residents in the Trifold Peaks and North Forest regions. Its desalination facility serves fresh water and salt supplies to the inhabitants of the North, and its beautiful views are enjoyed by countless visitors regardless of season. It is a dominant stop along The Process Way, and though the RJK technically falls under the authority of Norna Station as part of Ochi Ni'nini, it is the largest and most famous Ranger Station in the North for its sheer size alone, as well as for its important history, centralized location, and continued interaction with the general public.
Related Artifacts
"The RJK Dam 100 years Commemorative Stamp" by Mihonton Ni, 394 ak Also known as the “Hydro Power 100th year” stamp, this commemorative stamp design celebrates the 100 year anniversary of the restoration of the RJK Hydro Power Facility. This original painting in gouache was the basis for the the popular stamp renowned among collectors, and of which variations abound at the RJK site itself, in the form of patches, postcards, and commemorative tenugui. Here, the artist Mihonton Ni uses the plant motif common to the North, and a stylistic impression of river currents common to Birdfolk aesthetic. Rather than the elaborate Norn Ruins that form the powerhouses of the massive dam itself, the artist has chosen to focus on a smaller building whose plainness hides its importance: the original winter cabin built by the First Water River Mapping Expedition of 170501. Additionally, the inclusion of the river currents is a strong association to the RJ Kelley, who led the restoration project, and is the artist's method of honoring the vision and labor behind the contemporary relevance of the dam.
Alternative Names
The RJK, The Norna Dam, or the RJK Dam. (Previously, "the Norna Ruins," or more specifically, "Site 170501")
Type
Dam
Environmental Effects
Because of the rush of water, the high perch, and the exposure to the sea, the area around the RJK can be brutally cold. As such, it is primarily staffed by Northern Walkingfolk, and the few brave Birdfolk and Ni'Anman technicians who complain endlessly about the chill.
Despite the brisk air, the view from the dam is impressive, filled with the sparkle of droplets catching the high altitude light. It showcases a beautiful sunset and sunrise thanks to its position.
Owning Organization
Characters in Location
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