: Dr. Kay (played by Linda Hamilton) is introduced as a military official tasked with locating Eleven and overseeing operations in the Upside Down. Key Plot Points
: Will, Mike, and Lucas—now high school seniors—attempt to maintain a low profile during the military occupation. Meanwhile, Steve, Nancy, Jonathan, and Robin operate from a local radio station, sending coded messages and coordinating "crawls"—dangerous scouting missions into the Upside Down by stowing away on military caravans. [S5E1] Held Back
: Dustin Henderson continues to honor Eddie Munson's memory, which leads to conflict with local school bullies. [S5E1] Held Back
: Eleven is officially considered "missing" but is actually in hiding, training with Hopper and Joyce to regain and strengthen her powers for the eventual battle against Vecna. [S5E1] Held Back