Chapter Text
“It was a seven.”
“Huh?”
“The roll, it was a seven. The Demogorgon, it got me. See you tomorrow!”
Mike watches as Will gets on his bike, his shape slowly disappearing from sight. Watching him leave. . . seeing his figure slowly become smaller and smaller instantly made something inside of Mike stir. His breathing became rapid, his vision becoming blurred as his eyes filled with tears. He was leaving. His best friend. . . he’s leaving. No, he can’t leave, he can’t. Because Mike knows. . . he knows this is the last time he’ll ever see him. He wants to yell, to scream for Will to come back, to stay with him, but nothing comes out. He’s frozen, his body unable to move, his mouth completely shut.
The lights behind him flicker, signaling the end he knew was coming. It was going to get him. . . the Demogorgon, it was going to get Will. Out of desperation, Mike finally got the will to scream out, yelling out in desperation for Will.
“Will! Come back, please come back!”
His throat hurt, his knees buckling until it hit the ground. His voice felt raw, sore, and eventually, he opened his eyes in a startled gasp. He quickly looked at his surroundings, realizing that it was a dream. He was in his room, the morning light coming through his window. He took a deep breath, his hands moving to wipe at his eyes, knowing that there were tears there. This wasn’t the first time he’s dreamed this, it wasn’t the first time waking distraught and in tears. It’s been years since Will had gone missing, years since they declared him dead, and every day that goes by, Mike couldn’t get the last look in Will’s eyes.
The honesty, the small smile as he admitted in losing their last DnD game as he rode away on his bike. It was late, he shouldn’t have let Will leave. He should’ve invited him to stay over, like he usually would, but it was too late. Everyone, including Will’s mom would tell him that it wasn’t his fault, but that didn't mean he believed it. Will was his best friend, he should’ve been there, to protect him. . . like he said he would. But he was gone, and every day Mike would remind himself. Now, four years later, a day doesn’t go by without Mike thinking about that unfaithful day.
He lets out another sigh before sitting up and getting ready for school. He quickly scanned the calendar pinned to the wall, his eyes widening when he saw the day.
March 22, 1987
Will’s birthday. He would’ve been seventeen this year. He would’ve been graduating with all of them soon. Would they even graduate with everything going on in Hawkins? Mike didn't want to respond to that. Letting out another sigh, his eyes constantly blinking to get rid of the familiar sting in the back of his eyes, Mike grabbed his bag and walked downstairs.
“Mike! Come on, eat your breakfast, you’re gonna be late for school!” Mike’s mom yelled out from the kitchen.
“I’m not hungry, I’ll just eat something at school.”
His mom stared as he left the house, his head tilted downward. Already knowing what day it was, she let him be. Mike wordlessly rode his bike towards school, his eyes instantly focusing ahead of him when he was nearing.
“Hey, Mike!” Lucas yelled out upon seeing him.
He was standing next to Dustin. He noticed that the two gave each other a knowing look before looking back at him, showing a smile.
“We were thinking of passing by the hospital, to see Max before heading to the Byers’ later on. El’s going, too. You coming with?”
Mike shook his head. The two watched Mike leave, silent. Always silent when Will’s birthday or disappearance day would be near. They knew not to push it, knowing that Mike still needed time. Even though it's been years, everyone mourns differently. The day went on like that, with both of them staring at a silent Mike. Jane would stare at him with a frown, too. In a way, she felt guilty. When she arrived and joined the group, she had told them that she felt Will in the Upside Down. She knew he was there but couldn’t find him. No matter what she did, she couldn’t find him. As the years went on, more and more Demogorgons terrorized Hawkins, leading them to learn many things to protect themselves. Unfortunately, they also lost many friends along the way. Just like Will.
They’ve gone through a lot these last couple of years. The day went on, and finally school was over. Mike had instantly left and made his way towards the woods behind the Byers’ house, to the place that connected him to Will. His safe space. A safe space that once belonged to Will.
Castle Byers.
Even as the years went on, Mike kept visiting, keeping it stable, fixing it when bad weather would roll in. He tried to keep it just like Will had. He’s also noticed that he wasn’t the only one that would. As he neared Castle Byers, he noticed someone already there.
“Jonathan?” Mike asked as soon as he recognized who it was.
“Oh, hey.” He replied, clearing his throat.
Mike noticed that he had quickly wiped at his eyes, trying to be discreet.
“I thought you would go to the house first, but I should’ve known that this is where you’d go.” Jonathan said, his expression shifting into a fond one.
Mike’s noticed that he’s changed with him over the years. At first, he was distant, barely even looking his way. A year after Will’s disappearance, he’d finally come out and apologized for avoiding him.
“Every time I looked at you, I saw him.” He had said, years ago, tears running down his cheeks.
Mike understood, of course he did. Will and him would always be together, like glue. Of course he’d be reminded of his brother every time he saw him. Still. . . it still hurts to hear. He’d be lying if he said that seeing Jonathan or Joyce didn't remind him of Will, too. So, he gets it, truly.
“You replaced the string lights.” Mike said instead of addressing Jonathan’s earlier statement.
“Yeah, I noticed that they stopped working the last time I came, so. . . I got new ones.”
Mike nodded as he walked closer, choosing to sit beside him. In the corner of his eye, he could see Jonathan close his eyes before taking a deep breath, letting it out softly through his mouth. They remained in silence for a while before he finally stood up.
“I’m gonna head back. I’ll see you at the house?”
Mike nodded, watching Jonathan leave. His tense shoulders dropped, his eyes moving all around him. His hands began to tremble, his heart beginning to beat rapidly.
“Hey. . . Will. I, uh, I’m sorry I didn't come last week. A lot has,” Mike let out a loud sigh, “A lot has happened in the last couple of days. Max. . . she’s still in a coma. The town is still in quarantine. El, she decided that she was going to train some more since there’s been some Demogorgon sightings around. It seems like Nancy, Robin, Steve, and Jonathan are starting to get serious too.”
Mike bit his bottom lip before continuing, “I guess, if you’re watching over us, you’ve seen everything that has been going on, so I don't really have to tell you but. . . I like talking with you. It sounds crazy, talking aloud like this. Maybe you can’t hear me, maybe you can, but. . . I’d like to think that you can. Anyways. . . we’re forging a plan. El hasn’t been able to contact Max here but she thinks maybe she can if she’s on the other side, in the Upside Down. She. . . doubts herself, you know? She promised to find you but wasn’t able to. She’s apologized a hundred times already and even though I forgave her. . . she still feels guilty. I think that’s why she’s trying extra hard for Max. She doesn’t want to let us down.”
Mike let out another sigh, bringing his knees closer to his chest. He leaned his head there, deciding to stay quiet for a couple of minutes before he stood up. He should probably head to the Byers’ house now, but before he left, he turned, his eyes looking straight at the wooden sign. Large letters reading ‘Castle Byers’ staring back at him.
“Happy birthday. . . Will.” Mike said after a while of silence.
It was about time he made his way back. Blinking his eyes rapidly to not let the tears out, he walked away without looking back.
Everyone was there by the time Mike arrived at the Byers’ house. Just like every year, they all had dinner with Joyce, not wanting her to be alone on such a day. After dinner, Joyce would visit the cemetery, everyone tagging along with her. Everyone except Mike. He wouldn’t go there because Will wasn’t there. They found a body, that they buried, but it wasn't him. Mike knew it wasn't him. Going there meant that Will was truly dead. Mike. . . couldn’t do that. Yes, it’s been years, but even now, til this day, he still couldn’t accept that Will was dead. Will wasn’t there so Mike wouldn’t go there either.
It was late by the time Mike made it back home. He felt emotionally and physically exhausted. He made his way up to his room as soon as he entered, not wanting to face anyone right now. He wanted. . . needed to be alone. So, he marched up to his room and shut the door, locking it. He then made his way towards his desk, pulling out some papers from under his desk pad. There were sheets of paper hidden underneath, a campaign, a story about the lost Cleric. . . about Will. He did this more for himself than his friends. DnD. . . it wasn’t the same without Will. So, soon they found themselves playing less and less.
It was hard to. Not only because of Will, well. . . it was mainly because of Will, but it was also because of what’s been going on lately. With Max, Jane, with the military, with Vecna. There was so much going on, and they didn't know how to fix it. But Mike kept writing, mainly for his own sanity. Although these were only stories, fiction in his imagination, he wrote about the lost Cleric, his Sorcerer. He wrote about Will, somehow, somewhere, still fighting. Still trying to get back to the party. . . fighting to get back to his Paladin.
“We cleared up the path through that rift. We can make our way through and figure out how to get to that son of a bitch.” Hopper said, his eyes looking at everyone at the station.
Steve, Jonathan, Dustin, Jane, and Mike, all glanced at each other before nodding. Hopper had made it clear that he didn't want anyone to separate, wanting them all to remain in a party of two.
“I think it’s best for the two of you to stay.”
“What?” Both Steve and Dustin yelled with a frown.
“The fewer we are, the better our chances of not being spotted. There’s those things running around and if we’re in a large group, we’ll bring too much attention to ourselves. We already have the military to be careful of, we don't want those things to spot us either.” Hopper concluded, his eyes moving towards Mike, Jane, Jonathan, and Steve.
“Bullshit, I’m not staying-” Dustin began but stopped when Mike interrupted.
“I think it’s best to have someone smart here. You guys can communicate with us out here. Besides, we won’t be long. El just needs to be close enough to that bastard to see if she can find Max. We’ll also need you guys to stay in contact with Nancy, Robin, and Lucas. Let them know what’s going on.” Mike reassured.
Dustin and Steve sighed before reluctantly nodding. He was right. Nancy and Robin went to find more information that could be connected to Vecna. While Lucas was in the hospital watching over Max.
“Keep us updated, Wheeler.” Steve let out, an exasperated sigh leaving his lips.
Mike nodded, giving them both a smile before facing Hopper.
“Good, now that that’s settled. Murray went to get us some equipment. As soon as he’s here, we head out.”
Everyone nodded and did as told. Just like Hopper said, as soon as Murray was there, they stocked up on equipment and made their way towards the rift that Jane found. They didn't know if it would work but it was worth a shot. Upon entering the upside down, they found themselves in a vast forest.
“Stay close” Hopped yelled, trying to keep them all together.
Mike was partnered with Jonathan, while Hopper remained by Jane’s side. Mike knew that they had to be a small group to not catch attention but now that they were here, he was starting to believe that having only four people here was too little. They could hear the sounds all over the place. The sounds of constant thunder in the distance accompanying them the whole way. Where? They didn't know, but they got their answer after a while of walking.
“Where are we?” Jonathan asked.
They were in a run down house. The house looked eerie and something felt disturbing about this place.
“This is his house, Henry’s house.” Jane said, her eyes looking up at it.
Mike’s and Jonathan’s eyes widened, realizing that this was the place Max was taken from their world.
“And you think reaching out for her here would work?” Mike had to ask.
“I don't know but. . . it’s worth a shot.” She replied.
She walked in first, followed by Hopper, then Jonathan. Mike was the last one going in. He felt strange here but kept his mouth shut as they looked through the entire house, making sure it was safe. They followed Jane upstairs, to the attic, all knowing that this is where it took place, this was where they lost Max.
“Okay. . . let’s set up here.” Hopper shifted the stuff around, making space at the center of the room.
“Mike, Jonathan, see if you can somehow get the tub upstairs.”
The two nodded and rushed down to find a bath room. They were in luck when they saw that the tub wasn’t one that was cemented to the ground. With difficulty, but being careful, they brought the tub upstairs. As soon as they placed it down, Hopper began to open every one of their backpacks. They each carried a bag of salt. They also each carried jugs of water for this purpose alone. They each did their part in filling the tub, adding the salt after. Once it was done, they saw Jane walk forward, her shoes already off. She was wearing a bathing suit under, ready to submerge herself.
“Alright, I’m going in.”
“Instantly come back if you run into him. As soon as there’s danger, you make your way back, are we clear?” Hopper ordered, his eyes looking sternly into hers.
Jane simply nodded before entering the tub. She tied a bandana around her eyes before grabbing the ear plus from Hopper. Mike saw her lay down, knowing that it was going to be a while before she came out. It didn't matter though, as long as he came back with good news, then it didn't matter how long she took. They would be here, waiting for her, to protect her.
Jane was confused. She had entered the dark room she was used to but something was different. She felt different. She walked around the void, her steps careful when she realized that there was music. She walked and walked, the music guiding her.
One day is fine, and next it’s black
So if you want me off your back
Jane kept walking, still confused. Of all the times she’s been here, she’s never heard music here. It didn't make sense. Could. . . could someone be down here? Could it be Max? But, if it was. . . how was she doing it? Wasn’t music able to get someone out? Then why. . . why was this music playing now?
Well, come on and let me know
Should I stay or should I go?
She kept walking and eventually ended in a memory, one not her own.
‘Was this. . . Henry’s?’ She asked herself as she continued walking, still following the music she could hear in the distance. Where was it coming from and why did it seem off? She kept walking and walking, passing from memory to memory, stopping when she reached a memory that looked completely different to the others. She looked towards the distance, finding the Creel house sitting in a remote and isolated area, surrounded by a forest. It was restored, completely untouched, not at all like the place they were currently in. The music. . . it was coming from there. She continued to walk, one step ahead of the other, but before she could get any closer, she heard the last person she wanted to hear.
“What’re you doing here?”
Jane gasped, her surroundings changing into the dark room she initially started in. She quickly scanned the area, her eyes landing in the familiar creature standing before her.
“I didn't give you permission to enter into my memories. You must have a death wish.”
“Where’s Max?” Jane replied, her eyebrows furrowed.
The creature before her let out a chuckle, his head titling to the side, mockingly. He didn't answer, and instead reached his hand out, vines morphing and slithering closer to her. She was quick to dodge them, avoiding them from touching her.
“Tell me where she is!”
Jane raised her hand, using her powers to push the creature, Vecna, back, effectively pushing him to his knees. But he quickly countered it, pushing Jane back too. She frowned deeper when he let out a laugh.
“You have more to worry about than her.”
“What-?” She started but was suddenly pulled out of the void, her eyes widening when she opened her eyes and saw Hopper pulling her out of the tub. “What happened?”
“We have to go, now!” He yelled.
That’s when she heard the ferocious sounds of roars and growls, causing tingles to go through every one of their spines.
“Come on, we have to go, they’re coming!” Mike yelled out, trying to get everyone to move.
They didn't know how many they were but there were several, enough that caused a severe panic to set in. The four of them ran, Mike and Jonathan running behind them, both with weapons strapped to their backs.
“Run!” Mike kept yelling, taking quick glances behind him, noticing at least four of them chasing them.
They needed to get out of there and fast. They saw the rift in the distance, close yet still very far, and the Demogorgons were gaining on them.
"We aren’t going to make it. . . we aren’t going to make it!’
Just as Mike thought that, he saw Jane turn around, her hand lifting up. He instantly saw the drop of blood falling from her nose as she used her powers to push one of the Demogorgons to the other side, causing it to shriek loudly as it fell to its side. The other three continued to run towards them. Jane raised her hand again, trying to stop them, but they were too many. The most she could do is stop one more but the others were too close, too fast. Mike, Jonathan, and Hopper pulled their guns out and shot them, trying to stop them in their tracks, but it all seemed futile, especially since it seemed like they didn't care that they were being shot at.
They braced themselves, Mike closing his eyes when he saw a Demogorgon jumping up towards him, his arm stretched out behind it, ready to attack. Mike waited for what felt like an eternity, before he turned back, his eyes widening when he saw the Demogorgon levitating overhead. It still had its hand stretched back, but it was screeching in pain. Mike quickly turned to his side, towards Jane, but found her with a look of surprise, as the Demogorgon in front of her was acting the same. Turning towards Jonathan and Hopper, they were looking the same way, with the same confused and shocked expression. That’s when the group consecutively turned forward, their eyes landing on a figure a little ahead of them.
It was a person. . . a man. He had his arms outstretched, palms faced up, trembling. His eyes were completely white. He was the one doing this, he was the one that stopped the Demogorgons from attacking them. Mike’s eyes widened even more when he saw that same man lift both of his hands up, making all three Demogorgons levitate even higher, their legs straightening, their arms lowering, as their heads were forced to tilt backwards. And with a loud grunt, the man pulled his arms in, causing each and every Demogorgon to scream.
Their legs, arms, and necks all cracked simultaneously. The man dropped, and once his knees landed on the ground, the Demogorgons dropped with him. Mike’s eyes continued to stay wide as he noticed how the white of his eyes shifted into hazel eyes, ones that haunted his dreams for years. But no. . . it couldn’t be, right?
A trickle of blood fell from the man’s left nostril, which caused him to lift his hand, using the back of it to clean it off. The scene in front of him almost felt like it was playing in slow motion. Mike couldn’t look away. Those eyes. . . there was something about those eyes that drew Mike in, causing his heart and breath to pick up. But all at once, he felt like all the air had escaped his lungs. The Upside Down didn't feel as dark when the man’s eyes met his. Those eyes were pinning him in his spot. Mike was. . . mesmerized, in a trance. So much so that it felt like he and that man were the only ones here. That is, until he heard a loud,
“Who the hell is that?” from Hopper.
Mike turned towards the others, finally noticing that Jonathan had the same look, the same one he had, but his eyes looked shiny, a hint of something Mike couldn’t understand. It looked almost like a look of recognition. Jane ran towards Hopper, helping him stand, while Mike walked over to Jonathan, frowning as he continued to stare at the mysterious man. He was about to ask him what was wrong when he heard him say something that made his mind spark.
“. . . Will?”
Mike instantly turned at the name, his eyes catching on the man’s again. He was standing now, his own eyebrows furrowed as he stared at Jonathan.
“Will? . . . is that you?” Jonathan asked, taking a few steps towards him.
The man, no. . . he couldn’t be Will. Will was gone. . .he was gone! Yet. . . as Mike continued to look at him, seeing his features and trying to match them with Will’s, the more his heart began to accelerate. No. . . this couldn’t be Will. It’s been years, no one could survive in the Upside down for this long. It was impossible, yet something within him, within Mike, hoped. . . yearned, that this was real and not some imagination induced by Vecna, trying to mess with them.
He watched Jonathan continue on, stopping when he was a couple of steps away from the man. He noticed him look all over Jonathan’s face, his eyebrows still furrowed in confusion. And then, something happened. There was a shift in the man’s face, on his expression. His eyebrows unfurrowed, his mouth slackened.
“. . . Jonathan?”
That’s what broke him. Jonathan instantly bursted into tears, pulling the stranger close in a tight hug. Mike remained still, his heart beat completely over taking the sounds around him. His mind completely blanked, his eyes unconsciously began to tear up. He could feel Jane press her hand on his arm, in support, in reassurance, he didn't know, but his eyes remained on Jonathan and that man. . . Will.
“W-Will?”
As he hugged Jonathan, the man had his chin over Jonathan’s shoulder. His eyes were closed but then he opened them at the sound of his name. His eyes were coated in tears, but there was a smile on his face. His eyes instantly landed on Mike, the hazel color of his eyes, causing something to break in Mike’s chest. He completely broke down, tears now fully falling from his eyes. Jonathan sniffled, reluctantly moving aside so that Will could see Mike, who was now sobbing. Will, now released from his brother’s tight hug, slowly walked towards Mike, his eyebrows once again furrowing, almost as if he was trying to remember, trying to piece out who the person crying was by features alone. Mike didn't blame him, it’s been years since he last saw them. They all grew up, they all looked different. Even though it hurt that Will didn't recognize him, he wouldn’t blame him. As long as he was alive, nothing else mattered.
He was ready to wait as long as necessary for Will, his Will, to remember him and everyone else in the party. He was ready to do whatever it took to work alongside him, to recover from the traumatizing experiences Will suffered here. He didn't care that Will didn't know who he was, he didn't care that Will didn't, couldn’t, see him as his best friend anymore. He wouldn’t blame him. The world moved on without him, everyone moved on without him. They all thought he was dead, gone. But Mike wouldn’t stop until they were back to the way they were. Back to the friendship they once-
“Mike?”
Mike’s brain malfunctioned at the sound of his name from Will’s mouth, his voice.
“Mike? Is that you?” Will said before he chuckled, “you look old.”
Mike was still sobbing but he let out a chuckle before pulling Will into a bone crushing hug. Mike continued to sob into Will’s shoulder, not wanting to let him go, even when he felt Hopper’s hand on his shoulder. He reluctantly, hesitantly, let Will go. He didn't notice that at one point, Jonathan had joined the hug, hugging the two of them simultaneously.
“We should go before those things come back. And you,” Hopper pointed towards Will.
Mike instantly felt protective, wanting Will to be away from Hopper accusatory stare.
“You have a lot of explaining to do.”
Will gulped before he nodded, his expression nervous. As they started to walk towards the rift, Jonathan stayed near him. Mike did too, but unlike Jonathan, he didn't have the excuse of continuously touching him. Mike watched Jonathan place his arm over Will’s shoulder, pulling him into a sideways hug as they walked. He couldn’t excuse the want, the need, to do what Jonathan was doing. He wanted to touch Will, to feel him, to make sure that he was really here. That he was real and alive.
They finally made it to the rift, and as they were about to walk through, Will stopped. His whole body trembled, goosebumps appearing all over his body, but he felt it more prominent at the back of his neck. A sensation he knew all too well. He turned then, his eyes narrowing, his eyebrows furrowing slightly as he looked over to the tall trees, hiding a familiar figure.
He shivered when those eyes, eyes that only he could see, stared at him. His heart accelerated as he nodded his head, his eyes still staring deep into those intimidating eyes staring back at him.
“Will? Are you alright?”
A voice said, knocking him out of his trance. It was Mike, his hand holding onto his shoulder, his expression worried. He felt another hand on his other shoulder, Jonathan staring at him with concern too.
Will looked back to where he saw the figure, making Mike look towards where he was looking but found no one there.
“Y-Yeah, I’m fine. Let’s go.”
He turned, the others following behind him. Everyone but Jane. She looked over to where Will was staring, but just like Mike, she didn't see anything. She frowned before she followed the others, finally leaving the upside down.
It was strange. . . being out here. As soon as Will walked out, squinting his eyes instantly when he looked up towards the sky. He felt his eyes begin to tear up at the scent of fresh air. Jonathan, who was still keeping his eyes on him, quickly noticed, and once again brought him into another tight hug. He smiled at him, both of his hands moving to cup Will’s face. That’s when Will noticed the shiny look on them.
“Come on, Will. Let’s go home.”
Upon returning to the Squawk, Mike used his walkie, urging everyone back to the station. Dustin and Steve were the only ones there when they arrived. Understandably so, they were confused when they saw an extra person with them.
“Who’s your friend?” Steve asked, his eyes looking all over the newcomer.
Mike looked at him before his eyes went towards Dustin. His expression was neutral, but his eyes were covered in a sheen look. He didn't need to say anything, with that look alone, Dustin was able to figure that something was up. He turned towards the stranger, his eyes meeting his back.
“Dustin?” Will asked, his lips turning up into a smile, “you have teeth.”
All at once, Dustin’s eyes began to water. Without thinking, he ran towards him, his arms instantly wrapping him into a tight hug.
“Will?!” he shouted, moving back to look at his face again. “No, this can’t be real. How are you alive!?”
“That’s what I would like to know.” Hopper intervened, his expression serious.
Will’s smile fell when he looked over at him but returned when he looked back at Dustin, hugging him again. His eyes were also tearing up. He missed this, he missed his friends. All those years of being without them, with memories that didn't feel real anymore. Seeing Mike, Jonathan, Dustin, brought a happiness he didn't think he’d ever experience. His smile was still on his face as he moved back.
“Where’s Lucas? And-” Will turned towards Jonathan, “and mom? Where . . where are they?”
Jonathan smiled, his eyes still mapping Will’s face. He still couldn’t believe that Will, his baby brother, was here. . . alive.
“Don't worry, we’ll let her know. When they’re all here, we’ll talk about everything, okay?”
Will simply nodded, his smile soft. It wasn’t long until everyone else got there. The last person to arrive was Joyce. The reunion made another burst of tears arrive to everyone’s eyes. Will was sobbing as he clung to her arms, to her warmth. He never thought he would ever feel his mother’s warmth again. He didn't want to let go, equally so, Jonathan and Joyce continued to hug him, not willing to let him go either. It took a while before they all calmed down, and when they did, they all faced Will, waiting for him to explain what had happened.
“So, you were in the upside down this whole time?” Lucas asked, his expression filled with shock.
“How did you survive?” Dustin added before Jane interrupted.
“And how wasn’t I able to find you?”
Will frowned at her, wanting to ask what she meant but supposed it was fair to tell his own story before asking anyone else's.
“It was. . . hard. I barely remember it. I remember being stuck there, unable to get out. At first, I was scared to go anywhere. I was somehow able to get home. . . to our house in the dark place. Those. . . things-.”
“The Demogorgons.” Dustin imputed,
“What?”
“Demogorgons, that’s what we call them.”
“Uhm, right. Well, those. . . Demogorgons kept coming after me. I was able to find a weapon and have been using it to survive but at one point, I had run out of ammo. I. . . I don't remember much. I remember running and climbing away from one, but it started climbing after me. I had to-” Will let out a breath before continuing, “I had to jump from one tree to the other but I didn't make it. I remember falling before I hit my head. I guess I hit it pretty hard because the next time I woke up I was-”
Everyone frowned as they waited for Will to continue, but he was hesitating. His hands shook, his fingers intertwining with the other before he let out another breath, “I saw. . . him.”
“Him? Who’s him?” Mike was quick to ask.
“Henry.”
Everyone’s eyes widened, some of them turning to look towards Jane as soon as Will said that name.
“Vecna.” Mike supplied.
That name made Will frown, his head tilting in confusion.
“We call him Vecna, too.”
Will nodded at Dustin’s explanation. Jane moved forward, drawing Will’s eyes towards her.
“What did he do to you?”
“I-. . . I don't remember, but I do know that he had me in this house. I tried to escape multiple times but. . . he kept dragging me back. That’s when I figured out that I could. . . do things.”
“Do things? Things like what?” Robin asked this time, everyone invested in everything Will was saying.
“Powers, Will has powers. We saw him stop three Demogorgons at once, crushing them just like-”
“Just like Henry did.” Jane cut Mike off.
She had a deep frown set on her face, her eyes suspiciously still on Will. Will was looking back at her, his eyebrows lowering when he noticed the glare set his way.
“What?” He asked, causing everyone to look back and forth between them.
“Nothing. It’s just a coincidence that your powers are exactly like Henry’s.” She responded, her eyes remaining on him.
“What is that supposed to mean?” It was Mike who responded this time, eyebrows furrowed with confusion.
“Like I said, it’s just strange that Henry kept you alive this entire time. Why? For what reason?”
“And you think I know why?” Was Will’s response before continuing. “I didn't ask to be kept alive. I didn't ask him why he wanted me to be there with him. If I had a choice, I would’ve preferred if he didn't and finished the job!” Will yelled as he stood up abruptly.
The lights in the room flickered, both of Will’s hands were clenched in a tight fist. Jane frowned, her guard instantly up at the look Will had on his face. Everyone was staring at him with a look that he never thought would be directed at him and when he noticed, he instantly took a step back, both of his hands relaxing.
“I’m. . . I’m sorry-. . . I-” Will began but stopped when Mike stood up, turning his back to him as he looked at everyone else in the room, his eyes ending on Jane’s.
“Leave him alone. He’s been stuck in the Upside Down for years. Vecna has been keeping him there against his will! I don't know what you think you’re doing, but back off. He doesn’t need to be interrogated right now, what he needs is rest and time. We’ll continue asking him things later. Come on, Will.”
Everyone, including Will, was surprised to hear Mike’s response. He turned and grabbed Will’s hand, dragging him out of the station. Joyce and Jonathan instantly stood up to follow behind them. Jonathan didn't leave without giving everyone in the room a glare, his eyes ending on both Jane and Hopper.
The drive was tense, all not wanting to talk about what had just happened. Luckily, they arrived at their destination sooner rather than later. It was obvious, but Will didn't expect them to drive to the house he remembers four years ago. His eyes were wide as he walked inside, scanning everywhere. It looked familiar but different at the same time.
“Are you hungry? Let me make you something to eat.” Joyce said, a smile on her face.
She was about to leave when Will shook his head, grabbing his mom’s hand before she left.
“No, I’m not hungry. I’m just. . . a little tired.”
“I can take you to your room, if you like.” Mike said, causing Will to nod.
Even though he still remembers the layout, he followed Mike towards his room. His eyebrows lifted high up to his hairline as he entered his old room. He was surprised that his room looked similar to how it used to. Things were changed, like his old sheets. His posters, his books, and old drawings were still here. Opening the drawers, Will found old clothes that looked way too small to fit anyone living in this house. He turned all around the room again, his eyes finding Mike’s who was watching him with a soft smile.
“How?. . .I thought-?”
“You thought what?” Mike asked when he saw Will’s eyes water, his smile falling at his words.
“I thought that they’d-. . . I didn't think they’d keep my room.”
“. . . why?”
Will stared at Mike’s confused frown but didn't reply. Instead, he walked over to the bed, slowly sitting on it. He watched Mike walk closer, sitting beside him. He was surprised to feel Mike’s hand on his. Will turned his head, meeting Mike’s eyes that were already staring at him, a soft smile on his face.
“Hey, you know, whatever that’s in your mind, you can talk to me, okay? I’ll always be here, always. You can count on me.”
Will smiled, which caused Mike to silently gasp when he noticed the look Will was giving him. He knew this was Will, his Will, but now, sitting close to him like this, Mike can finally see how much he’s changed. He was older, obviously. His jawline was more defined, his cheeks bones high whenever he smiled, like the way he was currently. His smile looked charmer, and his eyes. . . they looked tired, but beautiful. The glint in his eyes, his hazel eyes. . . god, Mike missed him. He didn't know how much he missed him until right now. Or, perhaps, he’s always known, but he didn't quite understand why he missed him so much until now.
He gulped, his throat bobbing before he let out a nervous chuckle. He stood up, his eyes meeting Will’s again, who was still watching him.
“Well, I’m going to get a sleeping bag, so that I can stay with you. I don't want you to feel uncomfortable.”
Will nodded, watching Mike leave and close the door behind him. Once he was alone, he looked over the room again. It was strange seeing the old drawings, his old posters. . .
“They really did keep everything. They didn't throw anything away.” Will said softly, his eyebrows furrowing.
He looked down towards his hands, clenching them slightly before he slowly looked over to the window. He glared at it, his breath escaping his mouth before he stood up and walked towards the window. He shut it roughly, instantly closing the curtains, causing it to squeak loudly.
“Hey, are you okay?”
Will jumped at the sound of Mike’s voice behind him. His expression quickly shifted into a neutral one.
“Yeah, it’s just. . . I don't like the cold.”
Mike stared at him before nodding. “You should’ve said, I could’ve gotten you more blankets. Here, get in bed and I’ll get them, okay?”
Will nodded and did what he was told. It was going to be hard to fall asleep, but he knew that he had to try.
Mike didn't know why he was suddenly waking up at ass crack o’clock, but a noise caused him to jolt awake. He turned, his eyebrows furrowing, his eyes squinting, looking for the source of the sound. That’s when he noticed Will, his eyes closed, but he was breathing heavily, looking distressed.
“Will? Will?!” Mike yelled as he stood up and kneeled on the bed beside him.
He shook his shoulders, yelling his name, trying to get him to react but nothing was happening, he wasn’t reacting.
“Will, wake up!”
His shouts must’ve been loud because Jonathan ran into the room, followed by Joce.
“What’s going on?!” Jonathan yelled before his eyes landed on Will.
“I don't know! He was just thrashing and-”
“Will? Will?!” Jonathan yelled out, moving Mike to shake Will’s body, his hand tapping his cheeks lightly.
“Come on, Will, come on! Wake up!”
Joyce went towards the other side of the bed, yelling out his name, but Will continued to thrash, his breathing accelerating. His body was trembling, under his closed lids, they could see his eyes moving back and forth at an alarming rate. That’s when the lights in the room began to flicker, the bulbs making a soft humming buzz, making them worry even more. They really considered calling an ambulance when suddenly, Will gasped, his hands instantly lifting to grab at the first thing he could reach, which was Jonathan’s wrist.
“Henry?!” He yelled, making every one of them frown.
“Will? What happened? Are you okay? Is it Vecna?” Mike asked, trying to get closer but physically couldn’t because both Jonathan and Joyce were on either side of him.
Will leaned back onto the headboard of his bed, instantly looking around the room in confusion before they set back towards Jonathan, Joyce, and lastly, Mike. He took a deep breath, trying to calm his breathing before he swallowed the need to sob. He gently leaned his head back, closing his eyes for a second before he looked back at them.
“It’s okay. . . I’m fine. It was just a dream. . . a nightmare.” Will finally said, avoiding all of theirs eyes now.
“That couldn’t just be a nightmare. You were freaking out!” Mike insisted, but didn't say more when Will shook his head.
“Come on, honey. Let me make you some tea, maybe that’ll help you get back to sleep.” Joyce said softly.
“I don't think I’ll be able to get back to sleep.” Will said with a head shake.
“Let me still make you one.”
Will nodded and began to stand. Everyone insisted on him to lay back down, but he refused, needing to move. Mike was left in the room with Jonathan, both of them with worried expressions on their faces.
“Maybe. . . it’s the trauma of being in the upside down.” Jonathan said softly, saying it to calm himself more than Mike, but Mike understood.
“Could be.” Mike replied, turning to look towards the doorway Will just exited through. “. . . it could be.”
Mike couldn’t stop thinking of Will the entire night. And when morning came, his eyes kept following Will. He thought he was being inconspicuous, but he thought wrong.
“What, Mike?” Will asked with a sigh, turning to look at him.
The two were waiting for Joyce to return with new clothes for Will, some that actually fit him and his now taller frame.
“Huh? Nothing, nothing.” Mike replied, quickly looking away.
“It isn’t nothing if you keep staring at me. I can see that something’s bugging you so. . . what’s up?”
Mike let out a sigh before he looked back towards Will. He was nervous to ask but his curiosity got the better of him.
“Last night, when you had that nightmare. . . what was it about? And why did you yell out for him? . . . for Henry? It looked like. . . like you were looking for him.”
Will was staring into his eyes, looking at one of Mike’s eyes before switching to the other, a habit he remembers him having when he was nervous or when he didn't know what to say.
“I was. . . dreaming about my time in the Upside Down. Those things, the ones you call Demogorgons. . . they hunted me for a long time. Even though they don't-” Will cut himself off, turning his head towards the other direction.
“Even though they don't. . . what?” Mike asked, wanting to hear more.
“. . . My powers, I don't know how but. . . I can see through them, I can feel what they feel. They stopped scaring me, after a while. I’ve killed plenty of them to no longer fear them, but there’re times where I dream about them and I just. . . I can’t help but feel scared.”
Mike nodded, completely understanding him. But there was still one thing Will had not responded.
“What about Vecna?”
Will opened his mouth before quickly shutting it. He let out a sigh, moving to sit on the sofa, where Mike was currently sitting.
“It’s nothing, Mike, really. Henry would sometimes be in my dreams, talking to me, telling me these. . . things but-. . . that’s all, really.”
Mike frowned, his eyebrows furrowed as he stared at Will’s face. He wasn’t looking at him, which raised alarm bells in his head.
“Will, look at me.”
It took a while but Will finally turned to look at him. A confidence, a sternness, that wasn’t there before was now on his face. His expression was different, flipping from what it was a second prior. And his voice had a sort of definitiveness that caught Mike off guard.
“It’s nothing, Mike. It was just a nightmare.”
Mike nodded then, finding it hard to argue. Will wouldn’t lie to him, his Will wouldn’t lie to him. . . right? Mike knew Will like the back of his hand but. . . he guessed, after all these years, Will had to change somehow. Seeing this expression, this sudden shift, was enough for him to understand that. It still doesn’t stop the pang of hurt in his chest.
After Joyce arrived back at the house, Will was able to take a quick shower and change into the clothes she bought him. She wanted to cut his hair a little, but Will refused. His hair was a bit shaggy looking, the ends by his neck longer than the one on his head. His hair was curly and split through the middle, a major difference than he had in the past. The image of young Will with his bowl hair cut appeared in Mike’s head, quickly shifting when he saw him come out into the living room. Mike was sat next to Jonathan, both waiting on Will to finish with the help of Joyce.
When entering the living room, both Mike and Jonathan looked up, their eyes slightly widening at Will. He looked. . .
“Wow” Mike said, quickly shaking his head when everyone in the room, including Will, looked over at him.
“I mean, you look good.”
Jonathan cleared his throat while Joyce smiled. Will was also smiling but it was small, soft, his head tilted to the side, away from Mike’s view.
“Come on, I think we should go. The others should already be heading towards the station.” Jonathan said, making everyone nod.
They each filed out and made their way to the car. It wasn’t long of a drive there, and when they arrived, Jonathan was right, everyone was already there. Dustin and Lucas instantly did a double take upon seeing Will, still unable to grasp that Will was truly back. Steve, Robin, and Nancy were also staring at him. Nancy wasn’t present when Will came back but upon seeing him, she stood up and walked over to him. She had a soft smile on her face.
“It’s good to see you again, Will.”
Will returned the smile, his eyes squinting at her, trying to remember her but couldn’t.
“It’s Nancy.” Mike supplied, which made Will’s eyes widen, his smile becoming wider too.
“Nancy. . . it’s good to see you.”
Nancy smiled, giving him a soft hug, which Will returned. Once apart, they walked over to where the others were. They were all sitting around a rectangular coffee table, a map of Hawkins laid out in front of them. Things were written on it, things that caught Will’s attention. He walked closer, leaning down to look all over the map. The others watched him, Hopper instantly frowning when Will picked up the map, turning it this way and that.
“What’re you doing?” Steve asked, confused at his actions.
“This-” Will started, his finger moving around the lines drawn on the map, “it’s the tunnels.”
Everyone widened their eyes, instantly locking with everyone before turning back to Will.
“How do you know that?” Hopper asked, kneeling closer to hear him.
“I saw them. . . in a dream.”
“A dream? How?” Hopper asked, wanting more explanation.
Will sat up, looking towards him, “I don't know. . . I just remember dreaming about them.”
Hopper sighed heavily, patience wearing thin. “Look here, kid. I almost died down there, I would really appreciate it if you could give us a little more information.”
Will frowned, his eyebrows lower as he looked into Hopper’s eyes, “that was you?” he whispered.
“Now what is that supposed to mean?” Hopper started, a deep frown.
“Hey, chill out, would you?” Jonathan interrupted.
“Chill out? Chill out?! I almost died in there and this kid, who was supposed to be dead suddenly knows who I am because he saw me in a tunnel system that he shouldn’t even know existed, and you want me to chill?!”
“Hopper!” Joyce interrupted when his voice became accusatory. “That’s enough.”
Will looked back at the map, eyes looking all over the tunnels. “I thought it was a dream. . .” he whispered.
The others got closer, curious at what Will was looking at. They silently stared at him, watching as he picked up the pencil nearby. They watched him add a couple of lines, connecting some of them already drawn.
“What’re you doing?” Steve asked what everyone else was wondering.
“You’re missing a few tunnels.” Will supplied, still drawing.
“No, that’s impossible. I’ve been down there, I was with them when they discovered them.” Hopper replied, frowning deeper when Will shook his head.
“Either you guys didn't draw it well or,” Will looked back at Hopper once he was done drawing, “they’re lying to you.”
He stood up, letting everyone look down at the map. They realized that the tunnels that Will added passed by the MAC-Z, others passing through different sides of Hawkins.
“Why would they lie though?” Robin asked.
“What if they don't know?” Steve said before adding, “and we finally have a way in?”
“A way in? A way in where?” Will asked, which made all of them stare at the other.
Almost as if hiding something. Maybe they weren’t sure if they should say something to him. . . maybe they didn't trust him. Will looked away, his hand slightly clenching. Dustin sighed, deciding for them. He walked forward and pointed towards a specific part in the map.
“There, that’s the MAC-Z. It’s a military base that was stationed there after the ground split apart, giving access to the Upside Down. That’s what all the metal plates in the street are.”
Will looked back at the map as he whispered to himself, “Split open? Why. . . would he-?”
“Hey, why don't we have some breakfast before we discuss the plan?” Mike interjected, his hand grabbing Will’s shoulder.
Will nodded and did just that. He ate what he could, his eyes staring at the others as they spoke where Will first found them when he got here. He stared at them, his eyes moving from each of them until his eyes landed on Jane. From an outside view, it seemed like he was drilling holes into Jane’s skull. Jane felt her skin crawl, almost sensing Will’s eyes. She turned towards him, but saw that he was gone. She frowned, and without the others realizing, she stood up. With soft gentle steps, she walked towards the kitchen, staring down at the empty plate sitting on the counter.
She turned then, seeing a door move in the corner of her eyes. She walked towards the door, entering the room when she saw no one. Just as she was about to turn and leave, the door closed behind her. Her eyes met Will’s, who had locked the door behind them.
“What’re you doing?” Jane asked, instantly on guard.
“I can’t tell you. . . but I can show you.” Will said, lifting his palm up at her, causing Jane to frown deeper.
Will spoke again when he saw her hesitance, “please. . . you’ll understand once you see.”
Jane was still hesitant but she reached out, placing her hand on his. The effect was instant. Both Jane and Will’s heads tilted backwards. Blood falling out of both of their noses as they gasped for breath. Images flashed in Jane’s head, there were questions on her tongue but she was trying to make sense of everything coming and going in her mind. It was going so fast, too much information filling her head all at once. It was too much, and just as she thought that, Will pulled his hand away. Jane’s eyes instantly moved towards him at his wince. He was cradling his hand to his chest, his breath coming out hurriedly.
The two composed themselves, cleaning the blood coming out of their noses before turning towards the other. Jane remained silent, their eyes still not moving from the other’s. A knock on the door caused both of them to jump, the knock on the door becoming more urgent.
“Will?! Will, are you there?!”
It was Mike. Will looked over at Jane again, seeing that she was already looking at him. A silent agreement went from one to the other, but for another added reassurance, Jane gulped and nodded her head. Will let out a sigh of relief before he stood up and walked towards the door, the knocks still urgently loud, Mike’s voice cutting the air.
“Thank you.” Will said without looking back at Jane, and then he opened the door.
“Will!” Mike yelled out before pulling him into a tight hug.
He moved back then, looking all around him, searching for any type of injury. Will noticed that everyone else was behind him, all looking confused and alarmed, but it was Mike’s voice that made him look back at him.
“El?” He said, confused. He looked at Will before turning back to look at Jane, “what’re you doing here? What’s going on?”
Will turned to look at Jane, silently communicating before she walked forward, giving the best explanation she could think of at the moment.
“I went to get a drink from the counter and saw that he was in here. He took that opportunity to ask about my powers.”
Will nodded and added, “I wanted to see if she could help me control mine, but. . . they’re too different.”
Mike frowned at that, “different how?”
“She has telekinetic powers, while I derive my powers from that. . . thing.”
“The Mind Flayer.” Jane supplied, making Will nod and continue.
“I can only use my powers against the monsters. . . the Demogorgons.”
“Wait, does that mean you can control the Demogorgons, the Demo dogs, Demo bats, and pretty much almost every Upside Down monster there is?” Dustin asked enthusiastically.
“. . . basically.” Will confirmed.
“Oh my god. . . we have our answers right here, guys! What better way to find out what’s going on around the MAC-Z than with Will?”
“Are you crazy? He just said he sees through those things.” Steve quickly exclaimed, “Which means, we have to send one to them, and for what? Just to find out what they’re doing?”
“Why don't we just use one already in the Upside Down? We already know that they somehow made their way there, so why don't we try that?” Lucas added instead.
“You want Will to spy on them?” Mike asked, his dislike evident.
“Well, what else are we going to do? El and Hopper already tried looking through the Upside Down on their part but we all know that not all rifts stay open. We’re lucky that we know of one that the military doesn’t.”
They then turned to Will, who was watching them, his eyes flitting back and forth from Dustin, to Steve, to Lucas, then to finally on Mike.
“Well. . . it’s your call. Do you want to try it?” Mike asked, his voice softening.
The others quickly glanced at the others when they realized it, not expecting to hear that softness from Mike’s voice. Will on the other hand, didn't seem to bat an eye and nodded his head.
“. . . Yeah, I’ll do it.”