the crusader

by Melody

Chap. 1

        AN: My newest project is right here on your screen. Of course, me being me, it's a parody. This story is supposed to have that sorta pulp fiction/old school detective movie flick feel to it.  That's why there always be jazzy music set to this. This chapter's song? A jazz song called Cry Me A River. Enjoy!

Note: To hear music, click BGM OFF on the main page.

        It was a cold, cold day in New York, but I walked on.  Lights flickered, dimly lighting the pathway for me. Everything that surrronded me was dirty and dilapidated.  I could smell the scent of blood and sweat. There must have been a violent brawl here earlier. 

My partner, Martin, looked up at me. "Situation ain't good boss."

I snorted. "Like this place ever has good conditions." We started to investigate. But before I continue, let me introduce myself.

        The name's Harper, Jack Harper. My real name's something else, but I prefer Jack, for safety purposes, if you get my gist.  In this town you don't want any one to dig up your dirt.  

        You've probably guessed my lowly profession already... that's right, I'm a hall monitor. One of those elites who patrol IS 72 during free periods. I'm not an official hall monitor though. I was never picked by a teacher, like all those other nerds. Some might view as a vigilante, taking justice into my own hands. Unlike the rest of those nerdy excuses for monitors, I'm not afraid to get down and dirty. I go down to the dangerous parts of this school, like the 2nd floor lockers and the 4th floor staircases. Most of the other monies hate me, except for this one guy. His name is Swindler George, a slightly corrupt monie.  He'll give you a pass for $20. I believe he's really good at heart, just too damn money hungry sometimes!

        And now to my partner, Martin. He's short and sorta chubby and has thick horn-rimmed glasses. So why would a guy named him join a dark force like me? It's quite simple really. 2 years ago, in 6th grade, Martin had a best friend named Melissa. She was good girl, SP class, straight A's. Probably would've have got into Hunter or Stuyvesant ... if it wasn't for Tony.  Tony was regular preppy bad boy. He was in the lowest classes, had been left back 2 times, and worked in the school black market. He sold fake passes, test answers and stolen snacks from the cafeteria. Don't know how Melissa fell for him, but she did. Guess she thought she could change him. One day, Tony got caught cherry-bombing the girls toilet, but Melissa ended up as a scapegoat. After her public shame, Melissa pretty much gave up on life. She now goes to Resource daily and dresses even worse that a prep. Martin has never forgiven himself for letting her go. After Melissa moved from the top to bottom, he joined me.

    So I guess you know our story. But that's only the beginning...

~Finis

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