Life at the Top

Jasper’s lips twitched. He could no longer

find it in him to spout another complaint.

After all, it would be a major taboo for anyone paralyzed from the waist down.

Sure, there was no need to avoid the topic entirely, but it was only wise to keep one’s lips sealed when speaking in close proximity to the person in question.

Adele was the only one who found it amusing to call her brother a cripple.

Besides, it seemed that the crippled Brown had no opinions on such an indecent nickname either.

Even the little prince and Lord Alvarado were allowed to address him as such.

He did seem to be a very easy-going person.

The impression that he left on Jasper had always been one of mystery because they had never met each other in person. Thus far, Jasper had only exchanged a few words with him on two occasions through Adele.

The first was when Jasper suggested meeting in person. That was also when his battle with the United States. commenced.

was a straightforward refusal from the

admit that he was rather eager t o have a direct conversation with this young leader who was claimed to have condensed the

frame, Adele got up and left the chair. A while later, a

first impression of crippled Brown was

was dressed in ordinary clothing and the only thing

nothing so special about him after all. If h e were to

is our first

a smile and

unexpected, I would say, but it all

mind elaborating?” His

was piqued.

ordinary. So, I guess this is what they call the great hermit in the

out loud, crippled Brown said,

what you’re

Jasper? Why

voice sounded from the