“We have no choice but to partake in one last military expedition.” The generals passed the message along the ranks, and it spread like wildfire from Jew to Jew

“There is one more enemy I need you to help me defeat. I know you have fought bravely, and for this I will always be grateful. But you know how much I am offering you in return for your services. Do not forget my incredibly generous offer. I will allow you to rebuild your homeland like it was never built before. Who else would say such words to you? Which other ruler would be so kind?”

“We certainly appreciate your offer, and this is admittedly a strong part of the reason why we are fighting so hard for the empire out in the battlefields. But our men are exhausted. The wars have taken their toll, and our spirits and bodies are battered and bruised. We need to leave, and we want you to keep your end of the agreement.”

“Do you take me for a common thief? A liar with no morals? I was not merely babbling for naught when I promised you the return of your country! Do not imply that I am not a man who keeps his word! I certainly do. However, as I have already stated, your services are still needed. Not far from our country, another one of my great foes awaits with his armed forces. I won’t sit idly by while he prepares to threaten my power. I will strike him now, while my army is filled with your mighty warriors, and together we will smash the enemy to smithereens!”

The Jewish generals had no choice. What could they do, after all? Argue? Refuse? They would be killed on the spot. With a feeling of impending doom, they returned to the men awaiting their return.