chapter seven.
the pollywog
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disclaimer: I hope everything in Spanish is accurate!! I used Spanishdict like someone told me too !! Hopefully it's correct :)) but thank you to that person (I forgot their username, my bad)
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STRANGER THINGS 2
episode three

AT LUNCH, SHE TRIED TO EXPLAIN AT THE BEST OF HER ABILITY ON WHAT HAPPENED. "Then... Hopper said he'd let me off with a warning," Josie relayed about what she had overheard. All eyes turned to her, causing her to sink a bit into her seat. "Hopper saves the day once again," Mike remarked with relief.

Max nodded thoughtfully. "You're spot on. I was really concerned. I'm relieved he didn't send you to juvie," she said, leaning forward to place a comforting hand on Josefina's shoulder. Josie responded with a faint smile, drawing her legs closer to her chest. "I was genuinely scared," she admitted softly.

Will's expression shifted to seriousness. "I'm just glad you're alright, Josie. If Hopper had sent you away, I'm pretty sure my mom would've given him a piece of her mind. Actually, both our moms would've," he mused, letting out a light chuckle. Josie chuckled, snapping back to the conversation. "You're probably right," she agreed before drifting off momentarily.

Josie was momentarily lost in her thoughts when Dustin's snap jolted her back. "Jo, you wanna see?" he asked, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. Curious but cautious, Josie leaned in, placing her hands firmly on the table. As she peered into the box, a sudden rush of intense energy hit her like a tidal wave. The sensation was overwhelming, causing an immediate nosebleed. Her eyes squinted in pain and surprise, and she quickly pulled back, staggering slightly.

The concern in Mike's voice was palpable as he reached out, placing a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Are you okay?" he asked, worry evident in his eyes. Josie took a moment to wipe away the blood trickling down her face with the sleeve of her shirt.

Regaining her composure, Josie's gaze hardened as she locked eyes with Dustin. "What exactly is that thing?" she demanded, her tone laced with irritation, momentarily brushing off Mike's pressing concern.

In the midst of the unfolding events, Mike's thoughts drifted momentarily. Deep down, his heart still held a place for El. Their shared history and profound connection made it hard to forget her. Yet, he couldn't deny the growing fondness he felt for Josie. From the moment they met, he found himself drawn to her.

While his feelings for El remained steadfast, he couldn't help but appreciate Josie's presence in their group. Though he knew pursuing anything beyond friendship with her might complicate matters, he considered it harmless to harbor a small crush.

Dustin's excitement was palpable as he proudly introduced the creature. "His name is d'Artagnan," he reiterated, reaching into the box with anticipation. Josie's gaze remained fixed on the creature, her nosebleed serving as a stark reminder of the unsettling energy it emitted.

The overwhelming force seemed to drain her, leaving her feeling increasingly fatigued and vulnerable. Taking a deep breath, she glanced toward Will and noticed the unease mirrored in his expression, both sensing something amiss with the mysterious entity.

Dart emitted peculiar, otherworldly sounds that only added to Josie's unease. A sense of déjà vu washed over her; she felt certain she'd encountered this creature before, but the memory eluded her grasp. "Isn't he cute?" Dustin asked, clearly enamored.

Mike raised an eyebrow skeptically. "D'Artagnan?" he echoed, a hint of disbelief in his voice.

"Dart for short," Dustin clarified, seemingly pleased with the nickname.

Max shot Dustin a skeptical look. "And you found him in your trash?" she questioned, her eyes narrowing suspiciously.

Dustin nodded enthusiastically. "Foraging for food," he explained.

Amidst the conversation, Josie continued to dab at her nose, trying to stem the persistent flow of blood, her concern growing with each passing moment.

"Josie," Dustin's voice was filled with excitement as he perked up, clearly catching her comment. "Want to hold him?" he offered, his eyes gleaming with anticipation.

Josie's eyes widened with apprehension. "No, no! I shouldn't—" she began, attempting to decline. However, before she could finish, Dustin interjected confidently, "He doesn't bite," and promptly placed Dart into her hands. The unexpected sensation of the creature made Josie grimace in revulsion. "Oh dios mío por qué! He's so strange!" she cried out, swiftly passing Dart to Max.

"No, Josie!" Max exclaimed, a look of distaste crossing her face as she held the creature. "He's incredibly slimy," she remarked, her expression one of clear discomfort as she turned to Lucas, seeking some assistance.

TRANSLATION; Oh my god why

Lucas reluctantly cradled the creature, his face contorting in disgust. "He feels like a living booger," he remarked before passing it to Will. With a look of repulsion, Will exclaimed, "Oh, God!" quickly passing Dart to Mike. Holding the creature up to eye level, Mike scrutinized it intently. "What exactly is this?" he wondered aloud.

Dustin's grin widened. "That's exactly what I'm trying to figure out." He bent down, rifling through his backpack and pulling out books, placing them on the table.

Despite her best efforts, Josie struggled to remain alert as the relentless nosebleed continued. The room seemed to spin, Dustin's voice fading in and out as he theorized about Dart's origins. Each time she closed her eyes for a brief moment, she'd force them open again, gripping the table tightly. The draining sensation from Dart felt like it was siphoning her energy, leaving her weakened.

Suddenly, Josie staggered backward, catching the attention of Will. Sensing her distress, he quickly approached and took her hand, offering a silent reassurance that seemed to revive her. As she regained her composure, she locked eyes with Will, a silent understanding passing between them, leaving Josie puzzled yet grateful.

The bell echoed loudly, signaling the end of the period. In a panicked rush, Josie dashed out of the classroom, maneuvering through the crowded hallways with urgency. Bursting into the bathroom, she swiftly locked the door behind her, seeking a momentary escape from the overwhelming sensation of energy she had experienced. Taking a deep breath, she scanned the floor, ensuring she was alone and hoping to find no feet indicating other occupants in the restroom.

Josie's chest heaved as she released a muted scream, reminiscent of the intense displays of power seen from Wanda Maximoff in Marvel tales. Collapsing to her knees, a vivid burst of red energy emanated from her, filling the space around her. Her rapid breathing indicated the toll it took on her. It had been some time since such an episode occurred, but Josie knew all too well that being power-banked would trigger this overwhelming sensory overload within her.

With a deep breath to steady herself, Josie regained her composure and exited the bathroom, doing her best to appear unfazed by the recent events. She took a moment to sniffle, clutching her backpack tightly to her chest as she moved forward.

SOON IT CAME THE END OF THE DAY. Navigating the crowded hallway, Josie's eyes darted until they settled on Mike exiting his math class. Without hesitation, she reached out, gripping his arm firmly, guiding him with urgency toward where Will stood by his locker. The fluorescent lights overhead cast sharp shadows, accentuating the gravity of the moment.

"We need to tell him," Josie whispered, her voice tinged with urgency and a hint of apprehension.

Mike's brows furrowed in confusion, his gaze shifting between the two of them. "Tell me what?" he questioned, his voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and concern.

As Josie and Will exchanged a fleeting, yet intense glance, they spoke in perfect unison, their voices echoing slightly in the corridor's din. "It's about D'Artagnan."

The weight of their words hung heavily in the air, and Mike's eyes widened, a sense of foreboding creeping over him.

THEY EXPLAINED TO MIKE, and now, they were running through the halls to get to Mr. Clarke's. With a swift motion, Josie forcefully swung the door open, instantly capturing the attention of everyone present. "Stop!" Mike's voice rang out, a mix of surprise and urgency. Ignoring his plea, Josie maneuvered deftly around him, impulsively grabbing the box. Almost instantly, a fresh wave of blood trickled from her nose, a stark reminder of her earlier ordeal.

Recognizing the situation, Mike remarked with concern, "Oh, dear, Josefina, you have a nosebleed."

Forcing a sarcastic smile, Josie retorted, "Thanks, Captain Obvious. I've got this."

Across the room, Max's eyes locked onto Josie's, a silent inquiry evident in her raised eyebrows. In response, Josie offered a subtle yet reassuring look that conveyed, 'I'll explain later.'

Mike exhaled deeply, attempting to diffuse the tension. "I apologize, Mr. Clarke. It was just a silly prank," he hastily fabricated, casting a quick glance towards Dustin, who stared back with a mixture of confusion and concern. "What on earth are you doing?" Dustin demanded, clearly taken aback by Mike's unexpected behavior.

"I warned him," Mike interjected, cutting off Dustin's confusion. Mr. Clarke's gaze shifted between the two boys, puzzled. Sensing the urgency, Mike gestured toward the group, slowly retreating toward the door. "We need to leave. Now," he declared, taking a deep breath to brace himself.

"Mike!"

"Right now!" Mike's voice echoed with urgency, causing Josie's eyes to widen in alarm. Max exchanged a bewildered glance with Josie. "I suppose we're going with them?" Max mused, lifting her skateboard and adjusting her backpack. Without waiting for a response, she sprinted after Mike. Josie quickly trailed behind, casting a regretful glance back at Mr. Clarke, silently conveying her apologies.

MIKE LOCKED MAX OUT OF THE ROOM. Josie's internal turmoil grew as she stood behind the door, listening to Max's increasingly desperate pleas. Each knock felt like a weight on her chest, a reminder of the complex web of secrets she was entangled in.

"Hello? Can someone please open the door?" Max's voice resonated through the wood, tinged with frustration and a hint of vulnerability. "Guys, it's not funny anymore. Josie, can you hear me? Let me in."

Josie's hand hovered over the doorknob, torn between revealing the truth and maintaining the protective barrier she had so carefully constructed. The muffled sounds of Max's voice grew softer as Josie grappled with her next move, knowing that her choice would have profound implications for their friendship and the secrets they held.

Josie's eyes shimmered with desperation as they locked onto Mike's. There was a silent plea in her gaze, begging him to understand her position. As the urgency of the situation intensified, Mike leaned in closer, his voice low and filled with caution. "It's not safe," he murmured, casting a vigilant eye toward the door.

A sudden, sharp shout from Mike echoed in the room, causing Josie to flinch. "I promise, Sunshine, I'll fill you in," Josie began earnestly, but before she could continue, Mike sharply nudged her, silencing her with a meaningful look. "This is strictly members only. You know the rules," he admonished, his tone leaving no room for argument.

With a begrudging sigh, Josie uncrossed her arms and took deliberate steps away from the tables, putting distance between herself and Dart. Her eyes darted around cautiously, determined to avoid another draining interaction with the mysterious creature.

Max's frustration was palpable, a mix of confusion and hurt clouding her features. She had trusted Josie with her secrets, expecting the same openness in return.

"I don't get it," Lucas chimed in, voicing the confusion that hung in the air. Mike, already on edge, responded with a hint of irritation, "What do you not understand?" His tone indicated the mounting pressure of the situation.

Lucas's gaze shifted between them, his eyes reflecting a mix of concern and curiosity. "So, Will encountered something similar to Dart last year? And now, why is Dart draining Josie's energy? What's the motive?" he asked, trying to piece together the perplexing situation.

Will clarified, "It was similar, but there wasn't a tail." Lucas fixed his gaze on Josie, probing, "Have you encountered this creature before?" Josie hesitated briefly before responding, "I don't know. Back at lab. In Mexico. We were trying to figure . . . cre- creatures. What they like. If they could powerbank. Me. Others." Mike nodded in agreement, signaling for Lucas to continue with his line of questioning.

"But then Will heard it yesterday. The exact same sound." Mike told them.

"Why didn't you tell us?" Dustin snapped.

Will stammered. "I wasn't sure."

Lucas pondered aloud, "What if it's not just a coincidence? What if when Will was trapped in the Upside Down, he gained some sort of 'True Sight' or insight into these creatures?"

Lucas seemed perplexed, "True sight?" he echoed, clearly trying to grasp the concept. Meanwhile, Dustin shifted uncomfortably, avoiding direct eye contact with anyone. "What's your connection to Will?" he probed, directing the question at Josie.

With a shrug, Josie replied, "It's possible my powers are somehow linked to the Upside Down." Her eyes narrowed thoughtfully as she rocked back and forth on her heels, clearly on edge. She remained cautious, maintaining her distance from Dart, relieved that, for now, he wasn't attempting to drain her energy.

Mike hummed. "So, maybe you have True sight then?"

Josie's nervous habit of biting her nails intensified as she exchanged a puzzled glance with Mike. "What exactly is True Sight?" Lucas pressed for clarity. Dustin took a moment, meeting Lucas's gaze with a hint of knowingness. "It's the ability to perceive into the ethereal plane," Dustin elaborated cryptically. Lucas exhaled, clearly needing a more detailed explanation to make sense of it all.

"Maybe these episodes that Will keeps having aren't really flashbacks at all. Maybe they're real. Maybe Will can somehow see into the upside down."

Josie's eyes widened with realization. "So you're saying Dart originates from the Upside Down?" Her voice trembled slightly, her anxiety palpable as her heart rate surged. Fixated on the box containing Dart, she mentally prepared herself, strategizing the right moment to act and neutralize the threat.

Lucas exhaled deeply, "We need to bring him to Hopper and Cortez," he said decisively. Mike gave a firm nod in agreement, signaling his support for the plan. "I agree."

"I second that!" Josie firmly stated, raising her hand in agreement. Dustin shot her a disapproving glance. "Absolutely not! Handing Dart over to Hopper and Cortez is a death sentence," Dustin retorted, sounding defensive. Mike fixed him with an intense gaze. "Maybe that's the right call," he pondered aloud, weighing the potential risks Dart posed.

Dustin's eyes widened, filled with disbelief and frustration as he locked onto Mike's gaze. "How could you even suggest that?" His voice wavered with a mix of shock and anger.

Mike's eyes flashed with determination, his voice firm and resolute. "Because he's a creature from the Upside Down, Dustin. And he's draining Josie. You've seen it!"

Dustin's eyebrows shot up in a blend of defiance and concern. Taking a deep breath to collect his thoughts, he began, "Look, just because Dart has done some questionable things doesn't automatically make him evil. And regarding Josie, accidents can happen with any living being. Even with something as innocent as a dog."

He paused, letting his words sink in before continuing with a pointed intensity. "And let's not even get started on El. You're head over heels for her. But Josie? She's just the one you can't pursue because someone else has claimed her attention. You're letting your feelings cloud your judgment about her and her abilities." His voice escalated, each word cutting deeper as he laid bare the unspoken tensions between them. "This isn't about Josie!" Mike backtracked.

Lucas couldn't hold back a soft chuckle, the corners of his mouth twitching upward. Will, seeing Lucas's reaction, tried to stifle a smile, covering his mouth briefly with his hand. Meanwhile, Josie's expression shifted to one of confusion, her eyebrows drawing together in a tight knit.

"You clearly made it seem like it was Josie," Lucas commented with a slight scoff, his tone teasing yet pointed. "You said he's hurting her. So, naturally, it sounds like it's about her, Mike."

Mike, feeling the weight of their gazes and the implications of his words, let out an audible groan of frustration. His eyes rolled skyward momentarily, a clear sign of his exasperation and regret at how his words had been interpreted.

Will observed the unfolding dynamics, a faint smirk playing on his lips. While he held a soft spot for Mike, seeing his friend's unrequited feelings brought a mix of sympathy and amusement. He understood that Josie's heart belonged elsewhere — to Max, not Mike.

Josie's eyes darted between the two, a dawning realization taking shape. The idea that Mike might have feelings for her had never crossed her mind. She had always considered him a close friend, nothing more. A pang of guilt settled in her chest; she hoped she hadn't inadvertently led him on or given him false hope with her actions or words.

Mike's frustration was evident as he rolled his eyes, trying to make sense of Dustin's attachment. "What's with this obsession over Dart?" he pressed, his tone edged with annoyance.

Dustin's eyes gleamed with fervor as he defended his connection. "We share a bond!" he declared passionately, attempting to convey the depth of their connection.

Mike's eyebrows shot up incredulously. "A bond? Just because he's fond of nougat?" he retorted, disbelief evident in his voice.

"No, because he trusts me!" Dustin shot back, his voice rising to match Mike's intensity.

"He trusts you?" Mike inquired, prompting a groan from Josie. "Guys, stop fighting, please," she begged, shaking her head. "Okay," he paused, "but I promised I would take care of him, so if I have to fight about it, I will!"

Josie, overwhelmed with annoyance, ran her fingers through her hair and turned to the wall, expressing her frustration by banging her head against it. Dart's screech pierced the air, causing her to pivot with darkened eyes. Determined, she walked toward Dart, fists clenched.

"Heed my warning, Josie. Don't you dare hurt him," he cautioned, receiving a defiant glare in response. "He's bad. I'll kill," she declared, snapping her head to the side and opening the box. A desperate "No!" escaped Dustin's lips, pleading with her to reconsider her potentially dangerous actions.

Dart leaped out of the box, prompting Lucas to exclaim, "Holy shit," as they observed Dart growing legs. Mike quickly seized a microphone as an improvised weapon, while Josie, glaring at Dart, raised her wrist, manipulating Dart with her mind and hurling it against a wall.

Intensely focused, Josie continued to glare at Dart, using her telekinetic powers to squeeze it with her mind. Mike, witnessing the scene, was reminded of the night El disappeared. Dart squeaked in pain, prompting Dustin to scream and push Josie to the ground with him. Dart fell back, and just in time, Max swung the door open, allowing Dart to escape.

Dustin swiftly moved to Max, pushing her to the ground in a protective instinct. Josie, recovering, rushed over to help Max up. However, Max, irritated, brushed off the assistance, leaving Josie bewildered.

A perplexed expression clouded Josie's face as she stumbled back, processing the chaotic scene. Max, regaining her footing, demanded an explanation. "What was that?" she asked. Mike, still holding the microphone as a makeshift weapon, responded urgently, "Dart!" Max shot him a disbelieving look, prompting Mike to clarify, "It's a creature, Dart." The surreal nature of the situation left Max with a bemused "What?" on her lips.

Mike glared at her. "You let him escape!"

Dustin regained his footing, directing his frustration at Mike and Josie, pushing them both. "Why did you two attack him?" he yelled, incensed. In response, Mike pushed him aside, grabbing Josie's hand.

"Come on! We gotta find him," Mike declared urgently as they sprinted down the hallway together in search of Dart. "Don't hurt him! Don't you dare hurt him again, Josie! I swear to god!" Dustin angrily slammed his hand on the wall, emphasizing his plea to protect Dart from harm.

—

ash speaks!

wowzers theres alot to unpack here. . .

Also trying a new layout??? Do we like it??