Spoilers for Stranger Things season 5, episode 6.
Nancy's shot destabilises the energy above Hawkins Lab, sending a shockwave through the Upside Down and leaving parts of the building melting around her and Jonathan. Brenner's journals show Dustin that the energy is exotic matter holding together a wormhole, rather than a shield Vecna built. Eleven, Hopper and Kali narrowly escape the disturbance. Nancy and Jonathan, trapped together, finally agree to end their relationship through an unproposal as the surrounding substance eventually hardens.
Dustin and Steve reconcile as Dustin admits how Eddie's death has shaped his fear of losing another friend. In Hawkins, Eleven searches for the unconscious Will and learns that Vecna has used him to discover Max's physical location. Lucas and Robin head to the hospital to help Max return, but Demodogs attack. They carry her toward safety while Karen uses an oxygen cylinder in the laundry to destroy the pursuing creatures.
Within Henry's memories, Max and Holly push beyond the cave's shelter and encounter a disturbing scene from his childhood. A wounded man shoots young Henry, who kills him with a rock and opens a case; its contents remain unseen. The girls find a route toward their bodies, but Holly doubts she can leave without music. Max helps her recognise her own courage and connection to Holly the Heroic. Separate exits appear, and both girls run toward them.