Turned Into a Cripple

"Mr. Cornelius, I hear your country has long been interested in some of the technologies we developed ourselves and use on our Northwest Wind-class amphibious assault ships. You'd like us to transfer them. If your country could lend us the Divine Artifact, the Wheel of Fortune, I think we could discuss it," Clemens said, testing the waters.

A technology transfer.

Greek President Cornelius hesitated.

It was bait, but it smelled awfully tempting.

On the other end of the video call, Clemens saw Cornelius hesitate, and his eyes lit up. "Mr. Cornelius, last year's tariff talks between our countries seem to have stalled. If your country could lend us the Wheel of Fortune, we'd be willing to reopen them."

The technology was good. The tariffs were good too. All of it was very good—except for the condition that they lend out a Divine Artifact.

If only lending it out weren't a prerequisite.

Cornelius caught himself thinking greedily.

"Mr. Cornelius, Egypt and Greece have always been friends. A few years ago, we issued the Athens Declaration together and made a great contribution to peace and prosperity in the Mediterranean region. Now that Egypt faces this terrible disaster, I hope you'll help us for the sake of our friendship. We can discuss any terms."

"Mr. Clemens, I'm deeply sorry for what your country is going through. You have my sympathy. If you need help, I'll certainly provide it. We Greeks have always worked to uphold world peace, and we would never shirk our responsibilities. But Greece truly does not have the Wheel of Fortune, that legendary Divine Artifact."

"Thank you for your support and encouragement, Mr. Cornelius..."

After trading a long string of diplomatic pleasantries, they ended the call.

Still holding his phone, Cornelius turned to the secretary beside him. "Move the Wheel