A trophy has historically served a more grim purpose than conventionally used today. Human remains, looted objects and even live captives served as the trophies of antiquity, denoting victory. This trophy would often be shown to their authorities for prestige and in some cases, a greater reward.
Combat on the international stage, can often result a figure in society being reduced to a potential win. Civilians serve as a buffer of protection for the more important players. Royalty are bookended by religious leaders, military leadership and their fortress. All are for the taking in the game of imperialism and subjugation. Each player when taken out of the game are often held prisoner on the opponents side, on display behind the board in plain view of the loser to diminish moral. Each player, a trophy for the taking.