Legend has it that one of the ancient emperors of China fell in love with a new game called “chess.” The emperor decided to reward the game’s creator. He summoned the inventor to the royal palace and announced to the court that the inventor would be granted one wish. “I am honored, Your Highness,” the inventor muttered humbly. “My wish is that you grant me one grain of rice.” “Just one grain of rice?” the startled emperor asked.
