Chapter 52: Disconnect

The critical process of extracting Jason began. The neural interface, designed for precise data transfer, was now a dangerous conduit for a dying god. Aether's calm, steady voice, strained but present, guided Spider. "The feedback surge is extreme. Disengage the primary connection now, Spider. Secondary systems must be cut immediately after to prevent residual static discharge into Jason's neural network."

Spider's hands, usually a blur of confident motion, trembled slightly as he reached for the glowing primary release. The rig thrummed violently, threatening to shake itself apart. "On my mark, Luna! Brace him! Aether, if this doesn't work, he's fried!"

"Acknowledged. The probability of complete neural integrity is decreasing rapidly," Aether replied, its analytical tone doing little to comfort them.

"Three... two... one... MARK!" Spider slammed his palm onto the glowing release, and with a sickening lurch, the main connection severed. A brilliant, blinding flash erupted from the interface, followed by a shower of sparks and the smell of burning circuitry. Luna, who had braced Jason's head, felt a violent shudder rack his body as he slumped forward, still attached to the dying secondary conduits.

"Now! Cut the secondaries!" Aether commanded. Spider didn't hesitate, his cutting tools flashing as he severed the last links. The rig went dark, silent, and still.