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Language:
English
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Published:
2026-03-17
Completed:
2026-03-18
Words:
38,458
Chapters:
35/35
Comments:
6
Kudos:
43
Bookmarks:
17
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1,462

Echos Of The Paladin (And The Cleric’s Grace)

Summary:

The Demogorgon closes in on Mike, something inside Will Byers finally snaps. The Cleric of the group sheds his quiet nature, unleashing a devastating, raw power that leaves the monsters in ash and saves Robin and Lucas from the brink.

But the victory is hollow. Before the dust can even settle, Will turns to find Mike Wheeler standing frozen—his eyes clouded, his body suspended in the telltale trance of Vecna’s curse.

For years, Mike was the Paladin who never gave up on finding Will. Now, as Mike’s mind begins to crumble under Henry’s psychological torture, he starts to whisper a confession he’s kept buried for a lifetime. With the grandfather clock chiming in the distance, Will must realize that his new powers aren't just for destruction—they are the only bridge strong enough to reach into the red smoke of the mindscape and pull the "Heart" of the group back to safety.

But unfortunately for Will and Mike, being targeted by Vecna was the least of their worries.

Notes:

hiiiii, i know so many people have done this but i wanted to do my own take on everything that happens from episode 4 S5!

enjoy x

Chapter 1

Chapter Text

The Demogorgon’s maw opened, a wet, fleshy flower of teeth. Mike braced for the end, but then—the heavy, mechanical 'thrum' of a pendulum.

One.

 

Two.

 

The creature didn't disappear, but it went still, like a statue carved from shadow. Mike turned, his breath hitching, and the forest was gone. Standing amidst the scorched rosebushes was Henry, a cruel tilt to his head.

 

 

Michael.. It’s time.