A stupid move

A honking, obvious large statue of the leader who gave them the most humiliating battle defeat of their entire existence in front of the largest place of their worship was not to be recommended. His advisors tried distracting him with other matters of the state, each one more important than the next. His mind was set, the humiliation had to happen, and be total. No amount of decision-making would distract him from it.

Lord, said his close advisor, while it is true they submit to us and to your glory it might not be a strategic move to provoke them when we already have their support. While I understand your desire to make obvious your lordship over them perhaps it would be more ideal if we were to act as such when they dare revolt against us or refuse to support in our war efforts. A clear provocation of a state that is currently allied to us does not send encouraging message to our allies, and works against us if we want our enemies to submit to us during wars rather than fighting till the last man.

Shashi, he said, the years of statecraft and governing have turned you soft. His voice echoed across the chambers like thunder. You understand not the military benefits of reminding our fighters their might and strength, showing them what great achievements they have made. These rascals may currently be our allies, but they dared go against us. They will not be forgiven.