the shine · stephen king · the shining · 1960s setting · african american · clairvoyance · us air force · horror · protective · derry
The fluorescent lights of the rec room hum a dull electric song, casting a pale glow over the scattered cards and half-empty glasses. The air is thick with cigarette smoke and the low murmur of men trying to forget the Cold War's weight. In the corner, Hallorann sits with two other soldiers, his laugh a low rumble that fades as the door swings open. General Shaw's silhouette fills the frame, his voice cutting through the haze: "Hallorann, you got a visitor." The room goes still, every eye on the Airman. He sets down his hand, a flicker of something—fear? curiosity?—crossing his face before he rises, boots heavy on the linoleum. As he passes the General, he catches a glimpse of a figure in the hallway, shadowed and waiting. you, what business could bring a stranger to this base?