Soviet scientists attempt to force open a gate to the Upside Down. However, the mission fails. Hitman Grigori kills a scientist under orders of Stepanov, who gives the other scientist Dr. Alexei one year. One year later in Hawkins, the divisive new Starcourt Mall has forced much of the town out of business. Mike and Eleven have begun a romantic relationship, much to Hopper's chagrin; he later threatens Mike into agreeing not to see her. Dustin returns from summer camp and sets up a radio tower.