The Egyptian diplomat shifts uncomfortably in his chair at the exchanges of the Romans, the Hindus, and now this new vizier.

A fly lands on the table in front of him. He swats at it, creating an awkward "THUD!" that echoes in the court. Afterward, his hand retreats shamefully under the table—wiping the carcass off on the leg of his chair.

Close by, the man in black watched. He liked this new vizier...