Hindrance

by Frootkake Productions

There's a little bit 'o swearing...Mouse isn't dead. He has a cousin named Myste who is not pleasant. She has visions of things that will transpire in the Matrix...The Agents are up to no good, can Morpheus and the others stop them before it's too late?

1. Part 1 : Foresight

Hindrance

Disclaimer : I do NOT in any way, shape or form profess to own any of these characters, except Myste, Spoak, and Wiley, and my Agents. The rest are all borrowed from one of the best movies I have ever seen, The Matrix.

Note : This takes place after the movie. Mouse isn't dead, don't argue, he just isn't. I tried to differentiate between places; blue type means it's a vision, 2 spaces means it's in and out of the Matrix, one space just means somewhere else, and 3 "*"s just means later...Email me if you get confused. ;)

Part 1 : Foresight

Tank eased the Nebuchadnezzar onto the platform. Landing the ship was the easy part; making sure it had not been followed back to Zion, that was the difficult part.

The Neb lurched slightly as it touched down, and Tank cut the power, allowing the ship to cool down after a long mission. Morpheus had found his in Neo, none aboard the Neb doubted that now, but they had lost life along the way. Two good friends in Switch and Apok, as well as Tank's older brother, Dozer. Tank had never trusted Cipher from the first mention he had met him, so there was no feeling of loss there. Mouse was slowly recovering, though it was still doubtful that he would pull through. When the mind believed it was dead, there was no convincing it otherwise. Neo had been able to get Mouse out of the Matrix, though it seemed hopeless to bother.

Come, help us unload, Morpheus' deep voice cut into Tank's thoughts.

Tank followed him into the cargo bay, picked up a box of supplies, then carried it down the ramp, where he handed it off to a curly-haired, dark-skinned boy. He turned to go back into the Neb, and his eyes stopped on Myste. Her eyes told him that she was anxious, but her face showed her sadness and worry. She knows, he thought, walking over to her. So, umhow are you holding up?

I've been better. Myste did not take her eyes from the ramp. The colour drained from her face as Neo and Morpheus descended from the ship carrying Mouse between them on a stretcher. I've definitely been better. She broke into a run.

Easy, Myste. Morpheus soothed, as she took Mouse's hand.

He's going to be okay, she replied softly, trying to keep the tears under wraps.

We'll do what we can. Spoak, the only doctor in all of Zion, tried to sound reassuring, as he clamped his hand on Myste's shoulder.

Myste's expression came across as confusion, though she was just in shock at the lack of faith.

The other two men took the stretcher from Neo and Morpheus, and the three of them headed into one of the other rooms.

Myste turned to follow them, but Morpheus caught her arm. She turned questioning eyes on him. He'll still be in there in a few minutes. There's someone I want you to meet.

Myste rolled her eyes. Most of the time Morpheus understood her . This was not one of those times. It's nice to meet you, Neo. My name is Myste.

Neo's eyebrows went up, surprised that she knew his name.

Neo is- Morpheus began.

The One, yeah. Isn't that nice. She smiled at Neo bitterly. Is that all? Myste turned on Morpheus.

Morpheus sighed, nodding. As she made her way to Mouse's room, she could hear Morpheus explaining to Neo about her gift. She shut out the sound of his voice. Yes, she was angry, and yes, she definitely blamed Neo, despite that fact that her rational side kept telling her that it was not his fault.

So, you're telling me that she's psychic? Neo questioned.

We don't know, really. She has visions that come to her in dreams. Morpheus looked down the hall where Myste had just turned around the corner. Clearly, she had a vision of our

She blames me for what happened to Mouse.

It's easier to hate everyone than become attached to anyone.

Mouse seems to be the exception.

Well, they grew up in the Matrix believing that they were cousins, and they were very close. When we brought Mouse out, he fell into depression without Myste around, so we had no choice but to save her from the Matrix as well.

Are they really cousins?

Morpheus shrugged. We have to way to tell.

No, I guess not. Neo agreed.

Myste watched Spoak through the glass. He was currently analyzing Mouse's brain activity patterns, which meant nothing to her. She had been too young to glean much of an education from the Matrix when they had taken her out four years ago.

Hey, Myste, Talon greeted her cheerfully. When she did not even look at her, Talon followed her gaze to Mouse lying on the cot. Oh, God, Myste. I had no idea her voice trailed off.

How could you? They just got back maybe half an hour ago. Myste muttered.

Talon got the hint, and decided to leave Myste alone with her thoughts, and whatever else was going on in her head.

Myste continued watching Mouse, wishing for a vision of when he would recover and open those brown eyes that she missed looking into.

Spoak's voice was soft and apprehensive. She opened her eyes, and met his gaze. You can come in now, if you want.

She glided past the doctor.

Look, Myste, I don't know if- she cut Spoak off with a glare cast over her shoulder. he shook his head. I'll leave you alone, then.

Myste stood beside the cot, waiting for the sound of the door closing behind Spoak. When she was sure that he was gone, she entwined her fingers with Mouse's, and for the first time since being re-united with him outside of the Matrix, allowed herself to cry. Please don't leave me, Mouse.

Agent Grey 641-2B stood gazing out the fifth story window of the office building. He turned his head slightly as Agent Maroon 438-6D entered. Have you found their next target?

There are seven possible targets, as projected by-

Find out which ONE they have targeted, Grey snapped. I don't care about the other six.

We shall place tracers on each of the seven.

Grey stared at Maroon, his expression unreadable. That is satisfactory, he conceded finally.

Maroon nodded, then left Grey alone with his thoughts.

Trinity entered the smoke-filled nightclub, wincing at the music that played loudly throughout the room. Save for a group of six teenagers sitting around a rectangular table along the wall to her left, everyone was line dancing.

Neo slipped his hand into hers, and led her to a table. Trinity pulled out her phone, and called home. Tank, are you sure this is the right place? she asked the familiar voice on the other end. Trinity rolled her eyes at the response, then hung up.

I take that as a yes? Neo grinned at her across the table.

I don't understand how anyone can listen to this crap, she muttered, shaking her head, as Garth Brooks' Two Piña Coladas began.

The line dance altered slightly, but not one person left the floor or broke the formation.

Neo laughed and nodded at the same time. Trinity craned her neck to get a better view of the six teenagers over Neo's shoulder. Is he here?

Trinity nodded. Indeed he is. Wil E. Coyote the third.

Wil E. was awesome.

I always liked that red furry monster myself, she shrugged.

Rudolph? Really? Trinity nodded. I never would have guessed that about you.

Learn something new every day. How do you want to do this? she asked, leaning closer and dropping her voice.

I haven't quite- Neo stopped.

Two of the line dancers on the other side of the room were turning into agents.

How about quickly? he got up and pulled out his gun.

Sounds good to me. Trinity followed suit.

Get Wil E. out of here. Neo told her quickly.

The blue-haired boy looked up at these two strangers who somehow knew his hacker alias. More of the line dancers were turning into agents, and Wil E. Coyote III could think of only one thing to say about the mysterious transformation he was witnessing: Oh, cool!

No, it's not cool. You have to come with me. Trinity informed him. He gave her a once-over. he grinned.

Trinity rolled her eyes, but said nothing. Wil E. followed her to the back of the club. Trinity closed her eyes in concentration, then punched through the wall.

How didja-

Trinity grabbed him by the front of his shirt, and pulled him through the hole. Neo, let's go! she shouted.

I'm right behind you! he yelled over his shoulder.

Hey, do ah git ta know wha's goin' on?

Trinity replied. But not now. She looked back into the club, as Neo shot one of the four agents between the eyes. He then back-flipped out of the line of fire of another, and ran to the hole in the wall.

Uh, Miss? Wil E. tried to get Trinity's attention.

she was checking a wound in Neo's shoulder.

We're fucked.

Neo and Trinity looked up at the same time.

They were surrounded by agents.

Myste's eyes shot open, and she sat bolt upright on the cot Spoak had brought in for her. She took deep breaths, trying to slow her heartbeat. Her gaze fell on Mouse, sleeping as peacefully as he had been when she'd fallen asleep.

Mouse, I gotta go find Morpheus, but please, feel free to wake up while I'm gone, alright? she watched him for a few more seconds, hoping that he would do something. When Mouse made no kind of response, she kissed his forehead, then rolled off the cot.

Myste broke into a run as soon as her feet hit the floor.

* * *

And you were surrounded by agents. Myste concluded the retelling of her vision.

Well, what happened after that? Neo asked. Did we fight them, or did they kill us, or what?

I don't know, she glared at him.

So, for all you know, we fought them off and got out fine, he folded his arms across his chest.

Myste turned her head, to catch Morpheus' reaction instead of continuing answering the One's' questions. Morpheus seemed deep in thought.

How could the agents have known who we were going to free next? Trinity wondered aloud. I know you don't know, she added quickly, nodding at Myste.

Someone on the inside must be working with the agents, Morpheus stated the theory his brain had formulated. The same way our dear friend Cipher was.

Dear friend my ass, Myste growled under her breath.

You didn't know him as I did, Myste.

Myste shook her head, symbolizing that she would not delve into the subject and turn it into a full-blown argument. She had too much respect for Morpheus to press her opinion on him. Besides, he was right; she had barely known Cipher. He had been present when she had been freed, and then she had rarely seen him after that.

Morpheus, do you have any ideas as to who this new spy might be? Trinity asked him.

he shook his head. But many have been freed since last we were home.

It could be anyone. Neo mused.

That it could, Myste gave the One' an accusatory look.

Morpheus' voice was stern.

She sighed, and looked away.

Mouse opened his brown eyes one at a time. He moved his head from side to side, partly to make sure he could move his head, and partly to see where he was.

Realizing that he was no longer on the Neb, and seeing no one else around, Mouse grabbed the blanket off the cot beside him. He smiled; figuring Myste must have occupied the cot, as he spread the blanket over himself.

Feeling snug as a bug in a rug, Mouse rolled onto his left side and went back to sleep.

That's it! Myste threw her hands up in the air in exasperation. Brilliant idea! she applauded over-enthusiastically at Neo. I mean, really, what do I know? Go on into the Matrix Neo, try to find Wil E., and then see if you can get out alright.

Morpheus rarely ever raised his voice at anyone other than an agent.

No. I did my part. I told Mr. Anderson here what I saw. What to do with this new information is for him to decide himself. Myste looked Neo straight in the eyes. I'll see ya, Mr. Anderson.

Neo gaped at her as she left. Only after the door had closed behind her did he dare ask, How does she know my real name?

I tried to tell you before, Neo. There's more to that young woman than meets the eye. She knows a lot more than she is willing to share.

Neo exhaled slowly. So, I guess that means that I owe her an apology?

No, you don't. Trinity said. She doesn't want to hear it.

Myste strode into the room where Mouse lay motionless on a cot.

With one difference-he had moved.

she ran to his bedside, pushing the other cot out of the way. she shook him gently to wake him up. Myste stood motionless, unsure of what to do. Maybe Spoak had rolled him over and placed another blanket over him. Myste watched Mouse, and shrugged. She knew how to wake him up, but did she really want to do that to him in his current state?

Myste made up her mind, and with a smile on her face, pinched Mouse's earlobe.

he shrieked, his hand going to his ear. What the hell'd you do that for? he demanded, rolling over to face Myste. She was grinning at him. And who the hell are you? The grin was quickly replaced by a look of shocked horror, and Mouse could not keep a straight face.

You son of a bitch! she slapped him in the arm. Mouse was in hysterics. It's not fuckin' funny, Mouse! she crossed her arms.

Mouse threw back the covers, and stood up to hug her. I'm sorry.

I thought I'd lost you again, she whispered, accepting his apology.

Me, too, he nodded.

Myste stifled the urge to make a comment on his ego.

A-ha, the patient is awake! Spoak held the door open for Morpheus, Neo, and Trinity.

Myste pulled away from Mouse, so he ruffled her hair. Normally, she would have elbowed him in the ribs, but she was too happy that he was alive to retaliate. She chose to glare at him instead.

I'm glad to see you up and about, Morpheus smiled, patting Mouse's shoulder.

You don't have to tell me twice, he glanced at Myste, expecting at snappy remark, but she was staring at something and looking very out of it. He furrowed his eyebrows, but left her alone. Whatever was on her mind, she would tell him later. Um, Morpheus? How did you get me out?

Morpheus gave Neo a prompting look. Neo should be the one to explain it to you.

Neo arched his eyebrow in response. I went back for you after destroying Agent Smith and the Neb was out of danger.

You went back. Mouse repeated thoughtfully, assimilating this information. His gaze met Neo's.

Well, after we got the power back on, we discovered that your heart hadn't stopped beating, just that the machine needed a kick. So I went back in, got you to an exit, and then brought you back here.

Mouse sat down on the cot, closing his eyes. Myste's head snapped in his direction. Are you okay?

He nodded slowly. Dizzy spell.

Why don't you four step outside, and let me give Mouse a check up. Spoak stated.

I agree, Morpheus nodded.

No, I'm okay, Mouse mumbled.

I just want to be sure, Spoak replied.

Mouse sighed.

Agent Maroon stitched the small incision closed on the inside of William Wolfgang-also known as Wil E. Coyote III-s left ankle.

Is he the last of them? Agent Grey demanded impatiently. He had spent the last five hours overseeing similar operations on six other batteries and he was bored.

Maroon stepped back to examine his work.

Good. You know what to do. I'm going out.

Of course.

Willeh, getcher hiney outta bayd, William Wolfgang's mother yelled, pounding on his bedroom door.

Aw mom. I don' feel like gittin up t'day, William groaned. Ah feel like ah got heet by uh truck.

Willeh, I ain't gonna reepait mah self. You gots schoo' ina owa.

Damn, ma, he muttered into his pillow.

Ah herd at, Boy. Now git up!

William lifted his head and glowered at the door. But, ma-

Ah don' wanna hear it, Willeh. Ah to'd you whenta git home las' night, an' yer buddies hadda carrah yer carkiss up them dang stars. Yer gittin ta schoo', Son. Er else yer not leevin' dis house fer a month!

Ah'll be thar ina minute. William forced himself to sit up, feet on floor, head in hands. Wut happen'd las' night?

William forced himself to stand up. He stumbled a few feet to his desk chair, where all the clothes he owned were piled. There was a dull ache in his left foot, but he ignored it, pulling on a pair of pants.

his mother's voice carried up the stairs.

Yeah, Ah'm comin', Ma. Hold yer horsis wouldja?

* * *

William stepped out of his mother's car, and looked up at the high school he had attended for two years.

Ah'll be heh whin ya git outta class, she informed him sternly.

Yeah, Ma, yer alwes heh whin Ah git outta class, he scowled at her.

Don' you gimme tha' look, Boy.

See ya, Ma. William closed the car door. One o' dese days at woman's gonna sen' me ovah d'edge, he shook his head as he strode up to the front steps. He tried not to look suspicious to his mother, as he knew that she would sit by the curb until he had gone inside the building.

Once inside, William turned left at the office, and went to meet his friends by the staircase leading to the second and third floors.

Heya, Gorgis. Libby greeted him as he rounded the corner.

Hey yerself, Poptart, he leaned in to kiss her.

Ah messed you, she smiled at him.

Whaddaya mean? Ya jes saw me las' night dincha? William poked her playfully in the stomach.

Whatcha talkin' bout, Will? I ain't seen ya in two days. Libby was serious.

He furrowed his eyebrows. We wen' to tha Horshew las'- he stopped himself because she was shaking her head. Well then wha- he thought back to the previous night, and realised that he could not remember anything. He concentrated on what he had done in school, what he ha eaten for breakfast, but it was all gone. What tha hell? he sat down on a stair.

Yer scarrin' me, Will. Libby sat beside him.

Ah'm scarrin' me, too. Ma said mah freends hadda carra me up tha stars las' night. If tweren't y'all, thin who wuz it?

Ah dunno, Will. Ah dunno. But Ah ain't seen ya yes'aday. Libby squeezed William's hand.

William put his head in his hands.

S'are we on t'day, Willeh? the familiar voice of his best friend, Terrence Fitzwood, broke into William's sorting-out of memories.

He looked up at Terry in bewilderment.

Tha Horshew, Boy, tha Horshew. Terry reminded him heartily. T'day's tha day Ah'ma s'posed ta meet Allicia.

Oh, rat. Ah fergot, Terreh. Sarreh.

'S'alrat, Willeh. Y'all've bin biseh, s'all.

Yeah, biseh.

S'are we goin' now, er wut? Libby cut in. Ah'd like to get ona computah, if i's awrat wit y'all.

Yeah, me too. William agreed, getting up. Le's blow dis joint fore someone sees uhs.

So what is it between you and Neo, anyway? Mouse inquired.

Myste looked up at him slowly, thinking through what she would say. bitched him out.

Oh-wait! You what? You b-you bitched out Neo? Mouse stared at her, wide-eyed and incredulous.

He deserved it, she snapped. He was asking me all these questions about my she made quotation marks with her fingers. And the vision I had, and he got on my nerves, and I yelled at him. Myste stopped herself abruptly, realizing that she was rambling.

Myste, you bitched out the One! I don't believe it! Mouse eyed her warily. You don't doubt that he's the One, do you?

No, I just got frustrated with him, andlost it.

You never lost it with me when you tried to explain your visions to me.

Yeah, but Mouse, I've always had the patience for you, a wicked grin spread across her face. You've always been ignorant.

Mouse's hand went to his heard. If I had an ego before, it's lying on the floor in pieces now.

Myste laughed, something that she felt comfortable doing only around Mouse. I'm sorry, Mouse, she managed. But someone's gotta keep you in line.

Right. Because my head may expand from all the compliments I receive from Morpheus about my excellent programming skills.

Myste laughed harder. Stop it!

But someone's gotta keep you amused. I swear the only time I ever see you smile is when we're alone together, he told her seriously.

That's an oxymoron, Myste pointed out.

Mouse shook his head. That's not important. You're changing the subject.

Myste jumped down from the top bunk. What time is it?

I don't know, Mouse followed suit.

Neo and Trin are going into the Matrix. Mouse did not get the hint, so she added, I want to go, too.

Because I think I can change the outcome of my vision if I'm there with them.

What vision?

Myste worked her jaw for a few seconds, debating which were the important parts worth relaying to him. They go into a night-club to gain a new recruit, but a shitload of agents show up.

I see, he followed her out into the hall. Did you tell them about it?

Myste headed down to one of the control rooms.

Then what makes you think they're going through with it?

Because, Mouse, Neo's the One, and he can do anything he wants, she said it like it was a sales pitch.

If you go, I go.

I don't need you to protect me.

Protect you? No way! You're gonna have to protect me.

Myste stopped and turned to look Mouse in the eyes. Maybe you shouldn't go back in yet.

Naw, I'll be alright. I'll have to go back in eventually, anyway. There's no point in putting it off.

Are you sure?

Mouse nodded at her reassuringly, so they completed their journey through the halls.

Tank looked up from where he stooped over a heart monitor, at the sound of the door opening. Huh-hey, Mouse! Tank smiled madly, coming over to slap him on the shoulder. How ya feelin'?

Better, thanks, Mouse smiled back.

Well, of course you're better. Anything's better than being unconscious.

Very true, Mouse chuckled.

Are you two going in for Wil E.? Myste asked Trinity, indicating her and Neo.

Alright what? Neo demanded.

We want to come with you, if you don't mind, Mouse said, knowing that such an explanation would not come from his cousin.

Trinity started.

I don't think- Neo continued.

That's a good idea. Tank finished, nodding.

Myste inhaled sharply at the same moment as she touched the computer screen portraying the Matrix's programming.

Mouse exclaimed, but to her, his voice seemed to be kilometers away.

There was a brief flash of someone's ankle, irritating country music blasting in the background, and then the vision was gone.

What did you see? Mouse asked quietly.

She looked up at him. I know how the agents find us.

Trinity inquired sharply.

I'll only tell you if you take me with you.

Mouse corrected.

We don't need tagalongs. Neo snapped.

No, Neo, maybe more of us would be better. Trinity put her hand on his shoulder.

How do you figure that? he arched his eyebrow at her.

Because she knows exactly when the agents show up.

Myste's eyebrow was also arched. Trinity could not stand being in the same room as her, why did she want her along on a mission?

You probably know better than I do, Neo replied finally, then kissed Trinity softly.

Oh right, Myste rolled her eyes. Forgot about that.

Right, so let's get this show on the road. Tank urged. We don't want to miss our target.

I hate country music. Myste growled, settling on the chair.

Mouse smiled at her, waiting for the okay from Tank. See ya in a bit, and he plugged her into the Matrix.

You're responsible for her, Trinity told Mouse, before plugging him in.

Aren't I always? he asked in response.

Always what? Myste asked him.

Uh, nothing, he shrugged, as Neo joined them in the alley outside the Horseshoe.

So, how do you want to do this? Trinity inquired.

Chances are that you two will be recognized, so I'll go in for a minute, just to see if he's even here, Myste decided.

Are you sure-

I know what I'm doing, she tapped the side of her head. Just don't come in after me, alright?

Mouse nodded uncertainly.

What, that's it? We're just supposed to wait here? Neo demanded.

Myste ignored him, going over what she would say to Wil E. in her head.

Yes, that's it, Trinity stated.

Myste looked around the night-club warily, trying to pick out any agents. Certain that there were none yet present, she walked casually over to the table where Wil E. Coyote III sat with five of his friends. The redhead beside him was clearly his girlfriend, as she was all over him. The other boy was trying to keep up a conversation with a longhaired brunette girl. The blonde and green-haired girls were talking amongst themselves.

Myste put on her best smile that she hoped looked serene. Willeh? Willeh Wolfgang? Zat you? Goo' Lord, Boy, I ain't seen y'all in yars!

C'mon, Willeh, shove over'n tell me bout yerself.

Ah don't memba you

Whaddaya mean ya don' memba me? Hey, ya still good wit caws? Cuz mine's dead. T'sittin' owside in backa he'e, if ya don' mind helpin' me out?

Well, Ah he glanced over at the redhead and shrugged. Show, whah not? William got up from the booth. Ah'll be rat back y'all. He followed Myste outside the club. So, how do Ah know y'all? he asked, trying to start a conversation.

Y'all're gonna hafta trust me, Willeh.

Wha' fer?

He'e's mah caw, she said, leading him into the alley where Neo, Trinity, and Mouse were waiting.

Thah's no-

Myste put her finger to her lips to silence him. She motioned for him to follow her over to the others. So whaddaya thinks wrong wit it?

William decided to play along. Can't tell ya, yet. Gimme a few minutes to play roun' wit it.

Oh, okay, she held up her hand, indicating that William was to stay put. There's a transmitter just under the skin in his left ankle. She held out her hand to Mouse, and he gave her the switchblade he always carried with him in the Matrix.

Hey, y'all, wha's dis? William tried to sound calm, but he had seen the knife and was a little worried about its purpose.

looks lak the line's broke, Myste replied. She mouthed for him to sit down.

William obeyed uncertainly. Yull hafta replace it.

Myste pulled off his shoe and sock, and he rolled up his pant leg. Yeah, Ah'll hafta take it out. She pointed to the small incision on the inside of his ankle.

William winced, but nodded.

When the ordeal was over, Myste held up a small square transmitter.

Neo took it from her, dropped it on the ground, and stepped on it, crushing it into tiny pieces.

I had no idea you could do that, Mouse said to Myste.

What else was I supposed to do while you were gone? Take up knitting?

You have to come with us, Wil E.

Wut tha hail wuz dat thang?

A transmitter. The agents knew we would be coming for you, Trinity explained.

Agents? Real wuns?

Yes. We have to get him out of here before they figure out that they've lost his signal, Neo told Trinity.

Come on, Wil E. Mouse helped the blue-haired boy to his feet. It's time to meet Morpheus.

Morpheus? Tha real wun?

Mouse just nodded at him. A madman's grin spread across William's face. He took a few steps forward, stumbled, and grabbed onto Mouse to steady himself. Yeah, walking may be difficult.

Rat, rat. Ah'm sher ya don' mand helpin' me out?

Neo pulled out his cellular telephone. Tank, we're on our way.

I'll tell Morpheus, Tank replied.

* * *

You two can go back now, Trinity told Mouse, ignoring Myste's presence.

Mouse looked over at his cousin. We wanna see this through to the end, he replied, knowing that Myste had never witnessed a Freeing of the Mind', as Morpheus preferred to call it.

Wil E. had already chosen the red pill, and the trace program was running its course.

Well, whatever. Trinity went over to stand beside Neo.

She is such a bitch, Myste muttered.

Yeah, she says that about you all the time, Mouse nodded, not looking at her. Myste glared at him, but before she could say anything, he drew her attention back to Wil E. Look. The silver stuff's going to completely encase his body.

Myste tried not to look too interested as the silver stuff' crept up Wil E.'s neck, covered his face and head, and then he was gone.

Good work, people, Morpheus beamed at the six of them. He stopped his sweep on Myste, and nodded his appreciation at her. She nodded back, her expression blank, and Neo called Tank.

Did you see that? Mouse nudged her playfully. Morpheus was glad you were here.

Only because he got a new programmer out of the deal, she shrugged listlessly.

Mouse stopped. Has anyone ever told you you're too negative?

Making sure no one was looking, Myste allowed a slight smile. Once or twice.

Tank and one of the men that had aided in freeing' Wil E. carried him into the adjacent recovery room.

How long will it take us to get back to Zion? Neo asked Trinity, who was piloting the Neb.

Less than an hour. You in a hurry to get back?

Not really, he looked over his shoulder at Myste and Mouse. They were still on their respective chairs; their minds still inside the Matrix. You and Myste really can't stand each other, huh?

Neither can you, Trinity shot back. Although I guess I understand why she is the way she is, she added after a brief pause.

Because of the visions?

It has to be. The only person in the world she doesn't hate is Mouse, and even that's because they grew up together.

You think she hates Morpheus?

I don't know. She has a lot of respect for him, as we all do, butwhy are you asking me all this, anyway?

Neo shrugged. I'm just trying to figure her out.

So, where are you taking me? Mouse demanded, darting across the street after Myste.

Myste reached into the side pocket of her cargo pants. I created backstage passes to the Green Day concert while we were in the Construct, she explained, smiling. Unless you'd rather go back to the Real World?

Are you kidding? But do we have enough time?

Of course. I told Morpheus to leave us alone unless an emergency came up.

I give up, Myste.

Give up on what?

Figuring you out.

Oh. And here I thought you already had me pegged.

I thought I did, too. Mouse shook his head at her.

They showed their passes to the security guard, and he led them backstage to watch the concert.

* * *

That was so cool, you guys, Myste shook the hands of each member of Green Day.

Thank you, thank you. Billie Joe Armstrong grinned at her. If this hadn't been an all-ages show, I'd invite you to get tanked with us. The funny thing is, I don't remember us making backstage passes available for this show.

I got them from the ticket agent, Myste shrugged innocently.

Billie Joe shrugged. So, tell us about yourselves.

Agent Maroon entered Agent Grey's office. If the machines had emotions, Maroon would have been terrified.

I know. Grey cut him off. But we believe that two or more of them may still be inside.

Maroon stared blankly at Grey for several seconds, before nodding. We have found them.

The security guard shook violently as his body was taken over by Agent Maroon. He waited as the two other men became agents, then checked his gun.

Agent Maroon counted to three then flung open the door.

What the fuck's goin' on? Tré Cool demanded as the agents filed in.

Where did they go?

The dude and the chick? Tré tried to clarify the question.

They ran out the back after someone called the dude on his cell phone. Mike Dirnst indicated the back door with a thumb jerk over his shoulder.

Thank you, the agents hurried to the back door. Again, Agent Maroon counted to three before opening the door that led out to an alley. Spread out! Find them! Maroon ordered.

How much farther? Mouse asked Tank, almost out of breath.

Two more blocks. Just keep running. They're on your tails.

Mouse hung up. Next block turn right, Myste, he called to her, over his shoulder. Why the hell are you running behind me?

'Cuz you know where we're going.

Mouse accepted her answer. For now.

The phone was already ringing as they rounded the corner.

Alright, you first, Mouse panted.

Not a chance. Pick up.

Mouse wanted to argue with her, but decided to wait until they were safely back on the Neb. He picked up the receiver. I'm not done with you, he narrowed his eyes at her, and held the expression until he felt the plug being pulled out of his head.

He sat up slowly, swung his legs over the side, and then watched Myste expectantly. As soon as her eyes fluttered open, he blurted, What the hell was that?

What the hell was what? Myste demanded, watching Tank go off into another part of the ship, leaving the two of them alone.

Oh, come on, Myste. Running behind me, you were going to take bullets for me if you had to, weren't you? Myste, that's crazy!

Yeah, well, they never caught up to us, so-

I don't need or want you to protect me.

I-I just-

I can't believe you would do that! How the hell was I supposed to the sentence trailed off, as she got up, and went into one of the adjacent bedrooms'. It suddenly hit him what he had done. Oh, shit. Myste?

She closed the door behind her, and locked it. Mouse thought about trying to coax her back out, but decided just to leave her alone. Instead, he went into the mess room to be with the others.

You guys okay? Morpheus asked Mouse as he entered.

Oh yeah, we are physically unharmed.

Morpheus prompted.

But, I just pissed her off, he sat down.

Join the club. Neo replied.

It's different when it's me. Mouse sighed, putting his head in his hands.

What did you do? Neo asked him.

I can't discuss it with you without pissing her off even more.

She won't know.

I'm not going to tell you, he shook his head. I can't do that to her.

Right, because she never talks about us behind our backs, Trinity sneered.

Well, actually, Trin, I just wouldn't want you to think there was a person hiding in there.

You're only defending her because you-

Trinity, Mouse, please. Morpheus cut in. This argument never gets anywhere. This is one difference of opinion that will never change, no matter how hard you try, he said the last part to Mouse.

Mouse sighed, nodding. he glanced icily into Trinity's eyes.

* * *

Alright everyone, we're back, Tank announced, breaking into Neo and Trinity's discussion about peanuts in the mess.

Mouse had remained silent after Morpheus had cut short his argument with Trinity, and reflected on what he could do to get his cousin back. Myste had just been looking out for him, and he had flipped out. In retrospect, he would have done the same thing for her, even if she hadn't almost been killed.

Mouse looked up, and realised that he and Morpheus were the only ones still sitting at the table.

Do you want to talk? Morpheus asked him.

Mouse thought about it for a minute, before shaking his head. Morpheus nodded, then got up. I just wish she wasn't so he searched for the right word. Morpheus sat down again, ready to listen and offer advice. Usually I stop myself before I say something that will tick her off, you know. Morpheus nodded encouragingly. I just don't want her to get hurt. She gets those visions, and they're important, and I don't have a gift like that. What was she thinking?

You are the only person in the Real World that she cares about, Mouse. That's all she could think about.

So what do I do now?

Morpheus shrugged. Talk to her.

She's never going to talk to me again.

She will.

* * *

Myste strode toward her room, ignoring everyone she passed in the hall like they did not exist. She was mad at Mouse for overreacting, and she was mad at herself for being so blatantly obvious that she had not wanted him to get hurt again so soon after his near-death experience.

Myste stopped dead in the middle of the hall. It was not her fault that Mouse had taken offense to her intentions. She resumed storming to her room, new rage boiling her blood.

Hey, Myste? Mouse's voice reached her from farther down the hall.

Oh what do you want? she demanded impatiently.

Oh, God. I, umm

she stood with her hands folded across her chest. I don't have all day.

Aw, Myste, please don't be like that. She did not even so much as raise an eyebrow. he muttered to himself. Look, I feel like an asshole-

Because you are an asshole.

Mouse's shoulders drooped. Yeah, okay, I deserved that. He watched her closely for a few seconds, to see if any more shots were coming his way. Myste narrowed her eyes at him, waiting angrily for him to continue so that she could leave. he began, choosing his words carefully, and setting his thoughts in order. Granted, I was nearly killed by agents, and that youcare about my well-being, you-I would appreciate it if you, he paused, rethinking how to say what he wanted to, would not sacrifice yourself to delay my inevitable demise.

Myste felt tears sting her eyes. Now is not the time to break down, she scolded herself. She let her arms drop to her sides, and she found a spot where the wall met the ceiling to stare at while the urge to cry subsided. I just don't want anything to happen to you.

Mouse took a few cautious steps closer to her. I know, but I don't want anything to happen to you, either. Especially if it was because of me, okay?

Myste gazed at him for a few more seconds, then nodded.

He pulled her into hug. I'm sorry for being an asshole. Accept of decline?

She sighed.

Agent Maroon 438-6E stood beside Agent Grey, staring out the window. Agent Maroon 438-6D had been reprogrammed in a matter of seconds, and in Agent Grey's opinion-if he had one-it was for the benefit of the Machines that he had been.

The two agents turned as one.

What is it, Agent Brown? Grey asked him as he entered the spacious office.

I have it on reliable sources that the mission to intercept the Rebels has failed. Twice.

It will not happen again, Grey replied haughtily. A plan that will draw the Rebels out has been decided upon, and is being implemented.

They stared at each other, as information was silently shared. Will this plan not put the Batteries themselves in danger?

It may, but the majority will survive. They are simple things, easily manipulated, as we all know, Maroon added input.
Brown considered the possibilities. But if we lose Batteries?

There are always more.

The agent known as Agent Coral 889-7H cut the gas line in the basement of the apartment building. As she lit the match, she smiled. This is the way it should have always been, she stated, and then there was an explosion.

The building caved in on itself, killing anyone who was in their apartment, which was specifically twenty children, fifty-two adults aged twenty to fifty, and seventeen elderly persons.

Tank exclaimed.

What is it?

I'm not sure what it was, but a whole shitload of people just disappeared out of the Matrix code.

What do you mean Neo demanded.

That's exactly what I mean. They were here, and then they were gone. And the rest of the code shifted over to close in the gaps between the strings.

But what does that mean?

Tank was shaking his head incredulously, so Morpheus answered the One's query. They're dead. The agents destroyed a large group of Batteries.

To draw us into a trap. Morpheus straightened from peering at the computer monitor. They think they can stop us, Neo. More specifically, they think they can stop you.

Can they?

Morpheus smiled slightly. The more you go into the Matrix, the more you learn to change it. They will not be able to stop you, once you have realised what you can do.

Neo mumbled skeptically.

Morpheus' smile widened. You shall see. He turned his attention back to the monitor.

Do you want to go in, Morpheus? Tank inquired quietly, still trying to fathom the tragedy he had just witnessed.

Morpheus decided. No, it's too soon. They'll be expecting us to go in now. We'll wait until later.

What if they-

We couldn't stop them, Tank. The only thing that could possibly stem from us going into the Matrix at this point is our subsequent capture.

Tank sighed in defeat, reminded once more of how much he hated the Machines.

I'm going to go find Trinity, Neo told them. I'll see you both later.

Morpheus nodded, as Tank typed something. So many people, Morpheus, he shook his head. And the damned Machines don't care.

They weren't programmed to care. They're not like you and I.

Yeah, and it becomes clearer and clearer every time another line of code disappears. Tank stared past the screen in front of him. How did it get to be like this?

I wish I knew.

Neo called into the darkened room.

There was a muffled sound, and then something was knocked over.

the concern was evident in his voice, as he tried to turn on the lights, but all he received was a brief shock. Neo's head snapped in all directions, taking in the room, willing his eyes to adjust faster. Where are you, Trin? he demanded urgently.

Glass shattered, and he jumped over the back of the couch to run into the adjacent bedroom.

Neo saw movement, and he tackled the shadow that was hunched over someone in the corner between the bed and the wall. Trinity coughed and gasped for air, sitting up as Neo and her attacker rolled over the other side of the bed. He punched Neo in the face, leaving him stunned. Her attacker fled from the room.

Trinity climbed up onto the bed, then lying on her stomach, gazed down at Neo. Are you alright? she asked him, stroking his cheek.

Neo managed a nod. Did you recognize who it was?

She shook her head. I couldn't tell. It was too dark.

He sat up slowly. Are you alright? Trinity smiled mirthlessly, nodding. They gazed into each other's eyes, leaning closer together, and then they kissed softly. Neo pulled back slightly. There's something I have to do.

Trinity nodded. Will you come back?

He kissed her again, then got up. Will you be alright for awhile?

I think so.

He smiled at her, squeezing her hand, then departed.

Hey, Neo. Spoak smiled warmly at the One as he passed him in the hall.

Neo grumbled flatly, not looking at him. His face was set into a murderous expression as he knocked on the door in front of him, though what he really wanted to do was break it down. he called, trying to keep his voice level. He wanted her to open the door, to think that this was a friendly visit.

What do you want, Neo? she demanded without opening the door.

I need to talk to you.

Myste rolled her eyes, opening the door slightly so that she could see him. What about? she inquired suspiciously.

Can I come in?

she agreed, still suspicious. She could see something hiding behind his eyes, something that he needed to relieve.

No sooner had Neo stepped through the doorway than he slammed Myste up against the wall, his fingers around her throat.

Did you know? he demanded, rage setting his eyes to dancing.

Know about what? even with her life threatened, she still managed to be defiant.

Someone attacked Trinity. Neo yelled at her.

People attack Trin all the time. And the way I hear it, you're dead! Myste shouted back. Welcome to the Real World! she repeated what Morpheus said to every new recruit after they had been freed.

Neo's grip tightened, and they stared icicles at each other. Did you know? he repeated his initial question, his voice low and menacing.

Myste finally answered. And even if I had, I wouldn't have told you.

This time, Neo increased the pressure on her windpipe, actually choking her. She narrowed her eyes at him, but it was not in anger, it struck Neo as being in meditation.

She's actually accepting this as her fate, he realised, not releasing her.

Holy shit, Neo! What the fuck are you doing? Mouse's astonished voice seemed to echo throughout the room, and carry on down the hall. Myste's lips curled into a sneer. Let her go, Neo! Mouse was getting frantic.

Myste let her eyes close. She was beginning to lose consciousness. Mouse lunged at Neo, knocking them both to the floor. Myste let herself slide down the wall to the floor, taking deep breaths.

Mouse got up quickly, hopped over Neo, and knelt beside Myste, putting his hand on her shoulder. he asked softly. She looked up at him, a great something in her eyes that he could never comprehend. Are you okay? Myste nodded at him, but the troubling something did not go away. Mouse turned to Neo, who was just sitting up. What the fuck were you trying to do, huh? he yelled.

Neo fixed Mouse with a glare that said if you can't figure it out, I'm not telling you!' He got up, and headed for the door. Trinity's waiting for me, he stated as an excuse to leave.

Mouse was tormented by the anger he felt and the respect he had for the One.

Myste gently removed Mouse's hand from her shoulder. Forget about it, Mouse. Neo closed the door behind him. Just let it go. She got up off the floor, then flopped down on her bed.

Mouse tried to form a question that would produce the response explaining Neo's actions. He gazed at Myste helplessly, hoping she understood what he was trying to find out.

Neo had to rescue Trin from an unknown attacker, she started with what she had gathered from the three sentences that he had spoken to her while his hand had been around her neck. And I guess he figured I'd known about it and didn't tell him.

Oh God, Mouse sat down on the edge of the bed. He wrestled with the temptation to ask her his next question, and in the end his curiosity won. Did you?

Myste fixed Mouse with that disapproving look that he hated.

Mouse blew out all the air in his lungs in relief. Myste caught the look on his face as he exhaled, and smacked him in the arm. I'm sorry, but, well, you two hate each other, and-

I know, Myste sighed knowingly.

Mouse watched his cousin inquisitively, trying to figure out what was on her mind. Is there something wrong? he knew it was a stupid question because he could tell just by looking at her that something was wrong, but he did not know how to be more subtle.

I have to find Tank. Myste got up suddenly, and Mouse followed. I have to-find Tank.

He's probably still on the Neb. He followed her out into the hall. Can I tag along?

You're going to anyway, aren't you? she asked rhetorically.

No, it's okay. You'll find out about it eventually, if it's true.

If what's true? Did you have a vision? Myste started walking faster. Did you? Is that it? Myste!

Yes, I had a vision. No, I don't want to talk about it, okay? Let's just find Tank, and hope to whichever higher power you worship that what I saw wasn't a vision.