After the thrilling conclusion of Stranger Things 5 volume 1, fans were on the edge of their seats waiting for volume 2. Beyond the climactic showdown with Vecna, there were still plenty of mysteries left unresolved: Will’s emerging powers, Eleven’s long-awaited reunion with Eight, and the fate of Max and Holly trapped in the terrifying world of Camazots.

In the previous volume, Holly finds herself alongside Max in the twisted landscape of Henry Creel’s mind—a purgatory filled with horrors crafted by Vecna. Despite the nightmarish environment, Holly proves she’s more than just a supporting character. As Nancy and Mike’s little sister, her courage and determination shine through, earning her the nickname “Holly the Heroic.”

While exploring Henry’s mind, Holly makes a critical discovery that ultimately helps Max awaken and escape. This sets the stage for one of the most heartwarming moments in Stranger Things 5 volume 2: Max’s return to reality. But the escape isn’t straightforward—Holly can’t accompany Max through her portal. Why? The answer lies in the rules of Henry’s mind and the nature of their connection to the real world.

In episode 6, “Escape from Camazots,” Max and Holly navigate through Henry’s memories, including a chilling glimpse into his childhood—to find a way to escape his mind and re-enter the red lair. Their journey brings them to the red lair, where Max finally has a chance to return to her body. Lucas has been playing her song, “Running Up That Hill” by Kate Bush, which becomes the key to anchoring her to the real world.

While the music is vital, Max realizes that it’s not the only thing pulling her back. The emotional connection to her friends and the presence of Lucas by her side create the perfect combination that frees her from Vecna’s control. In other words, music plus human connection equals Max’s miraculous awakening.

Why Holly Couldn’t Escape With Max

As Max reaches the red realm of Vecna’s mind, she discovers a harsh truth: there’s only one portal, and it leads back to her body. Holly can’t follow her through because her own body isn’t in Hawkins.

Despite this, Holly plays a crucial role in Max’s escape. Max talks Holly through her fear, guilt, and self-doubt, reminding her that her pendant, “Holly the Heroic,” is more than a trinket, it’s a symbol of her bravery. Holly’s belief in herself strengthens the connection to the real world, allowing her to open her own portal later.

Unfortunately, Holly doesn’t reappear alongside the main group in the Upside Down. Instead, she finds herself in the Abyss, where Vecna has imprisoned and brainwashed other children. All are connected to grotesque tentacles, creating a horrifying sight. After opening her portal, Holly frees herself from the tentacles and attempts to escape.

Her freedom is short-lived, however. When she falls through the Upside Down, Nancy hears her scream, but Holly is pulled back into the Abyss, unable to warn the other children of the danger. While Max successfully returns, Holly’s journey remains perilous, emphasizing the high stakes and emotional weight of their battle against Vecna.

Max and Holly’s journey in volume 2 highlights the themes of courage, connection, and self-belief that have always been central to Stranger Things. Holly, though physically separated from her friends, proves that even in the darkest moments, bravery and determination can make all the difference.

Stranger Things 5 Volume 2 is streaming on Netflix.