King Coal Book 1 - The Domain of King Coal; Sections 21-23

In which Hal Stone becomes acquainted with the rough but oddly good-natured pit-boss Alec Stone, navigating the harsh realities of coal-mining life and the complex social hierarchies among the men, while enduring the gruelling physical torment of the work alongside the seasoned miner Mike Sikoria. Later, amidst the bleakness, Hal observes tender moments of unexpected kindness and humour, as “Red Mary” nurses a child and the small camaraderie of the mining camp flickers briefly to life.