I don't know what happened

So, after my last posting and an incident with the bag-search person at the library, I went home and did the only thing I could think of.

I unplugged all the wires attached to the laptop, flipped it over, and opened the only cover that comes off. I saw a shiny surface of which I know nothing. Rather than make whatever it is worse, I replaced the cover and turned the laptop back over.

In frustration, I pushed the power button again. The lights lit up! Stunned, I shut it back off and attached the power cord and other wires. I powered it up again and it worked as usual.

I have no idea what happened, but I'm back.