Jerry Renault, a New England high-school student, ponders the question on the poster in his locker: "Do I dare disturb the universe?" Part of Jerry's universe is Archie Costello, leader of a secret school society called the Vigils and master of intimidation. Archie himself is intimidated by a cool, ambitious teacher into having the Vigils spearhead the annual fund-raising event -- a chocolate sale. When Jerry refuses to be bullied into selling chocolates, he becomes a hero, but his defiance is a threat to Archie, the Vigils, and the school. In the inevitable showdown, Archie's skill at intimidation turns Jerry from hero to outcast and finally to victim.