vrNet

The vrNet (short for virtual reality network) is an extensive network of superluminal, quantum entanglement relays and nodes. That is, it is capable of sending information instantaneously over thousands of lightyears. Information that can be sent can be anything from messages and letters exchanging information to fully fledged online virtual reality experiences such as the Dreaming Kingdoms MMO. The vrNet is the key to communication throughout the galaxy. Given the sluggish nature of space travel, without the advent of vrNet, interstellar society would be impossible.

The vrNet relays take a variety of forms. Most take the form of large towers or orbital satellites, but the ones that require more complex calculations and processing are located in deep space due to the amount of heat they generate. Most of the vrNet relays exist within the former territory of the Valerian Empire. Later societies such as the Federation of Stellar Systems built themselves on the ruins of the old relays, working to reactivate and repair ones that have broken down from lack of maintenance.