"The data that moves through these cords isn't steady and comes in nearly imperceptible waves -- it's like the heartbeat of this place in a way, jagged yet fast as lightning. I can dip in whenever I want! You can learn whatever you need to if you listen to the pulse."

Glowing intangible bars of light flicker and distort down their back, fanning out like a pair of false wings. They withdraw from the damaged cord that sprawls across the floor as the vibrant plumage fades, leaving only a cold cyan glow reflecting off dull metal walls.

What was still being transmitted this far from the safe zone?