The narrative follows a sprawling ensemble, each making a personal "stand":

[Scheduled] The Stand by Stephen King, Chapters 45-47 : r/bookclub

: Within weeks, civilization crumbles as the military fails to contain the spread.

The story begins with a catastrophic lab accident at a government facility.

: Also known as "The Dark Man" or "The Walkin' Dude," he is a demonic entity gathering forces in Las Vegas. He rules through fear, attracting those with darker impulses or a desire for rigid order. Key Characters

: A highly contagious and nearly 100% fatal strain of influenza.