After multiple thrilling confrontations with “snow sharks” and “Jerk-O-Lanterns,” Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 wraps up with a triumph over the Upside Down creatures — or so the group from Hawkins is convinced. Tales From ’85 holds the possibility for additional narratives, still occurring before Stranger Things Season 3.

From a possible Season 2 to the reality of the monsters and Nikki’s destiny (Odessa A’zion), here’s what to understand about the conclusion of Stranger Things: Tales From ’85.

Who is responsible for the creation of the Queen in Stranger Things: Tales From ’85?

The monsters in Tales From ’85 are distinct from the Demogorgons or the Mind Flayer of Stranger Things. They are in a constant state of evolution because of human experiments.

Dustin (voiced by Braxton Quinney) initially points fingers at substitute science instructor Anna Baxter (voiced by Janeane Garofalo) as the creator of the monsters, including the Queen. The proof is significant: She is a science teacher who specializes in evolution and is researching ways to revive deceased plant life. Moreover, the sight of the radio tower from her residence aligns with the visuals experienced by the human victims of the monsters.

However, Anna is merely a red herring. The actual mastermind is her associate Daniel Fischer (voiced by Lou Diamond Phillips). Prior to his store clerk role, he was a researcher at Hawkins lab. Without the necessary high-level clearance, he acquired a deceased vine from the Upside Down. By employing a green goo akin to Anna’s experiments, he brought it back to life, resulting in the lethal monsters confronted by the Hawkins group. He believed he had produced a manageable sample with the “Queen.” However, her roots extended deep beneath Hawkins, amplifying her reach. When Dustin discloses the truth to Dan, the Queen morphs into a gigantic creature attempting to reopen a portal back to the Upside Down.

Eleven (voiced by Brooklyn Davey Norstedt) halts the Queen by telekinetically slamming the gate down on her, severing her in two. But not before the creature devours Dan.

Is that the conclusion? Incorrect.

Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 suggests a second season is on the horizon.

The concluding scene of Tales From ’85 indicates we may not have witnessed the final appearance of this new Upside Down entity. Just before the credits commence, the Queen’s lifeless body lies in the Upside Down. While she is dead, something within her remains alive: A small blue flower rises, screeching from its Demogorgon-like petal mouth. The scene is accompanied by Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again,” which also scores a haunting segment in Stranger Things Season 3 featuring the Mind Flayer’s army.

Could this new flower be tied to Dan’s life essence, given that he was consumed by the Queen? Or is it yet another phase in these creatures’ evolution? Regardless, these monsters are here to stay. Since they do not pose a threat in Stranger Things Season 3 or the seasons to follow, they will likely diminish eventually. Tales From ’85 leaves the “how” open for the future. (Perhaps Vecna will do a bit of weed whacking?)

What becomes of Nikki in Stranger Things: Tales From ’85?

In reference to characters missing in the remainder of Stranger Things, let’s address Nikki. She is the most recent member of the Hawkins group, recognized as the Hawkins Investigation Club in Tales From ’85. (Not referenced in the primary series.)

As Nikki does not appear in later seasons of Stranger Things, she is absent by Season 3. Nevertheless, Tales From ’85 keeps her narrative alive in its conclusion. Although Nikki and her mother Anna intended to leave Hawkins, they decide to stay and relocate to a new house, free from secret laboratories. Nikki participates in the group’s Dungeons & Dragons game, and all seems well.

Naturally, this is likely to evolve in forthcoming Tales From ’85 seasons, as Nikki must eventually depart. Perhaps she and Anna will move away. Or maybe she will join Barb, Bob, Alexei, and Eddie among the cherished Stranger Things characters who met untimely ends. For now, she is enjoying her place in the group after years of avoiding lasting relationships.

Will there be a Season 2 of Stranger Things: Tales From ’85?

At present, Netflix has not renewed Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 for a second season.

Stranger Things: Tales From ’85 is currently available for streaming on Netflix.