動靜

King Wu asked Taigong: "If we lead our army deep into hostile territory and face the enemy army at equal strength — the two formations facing each other, matched in numbers and power, neither daring to strike first — I wish to make the enemy commanders frightened, their soldiers disheartened, their formations unsteady, their rear ranks wanting to flee and their front ranks constantly looking back, so that when we raise a clamor and charge, the enemy runs. How should this be done?" Taigong said: "In such a case, dispatch our troops to positions ten li from the enemy and set ambushes on both flanks. Send chariots and cavalry a hundred li out to loop around behind and in front of them. Multiply the banners and increase the gongs and drums. When battle is joined, raise the war cry and spring all ambushes at once. The enemy general will be terrified, his army panic-stricken. Units large and small will fail to support one another, officers and soldiers will not wait for each other. The enemy will certainly be defeated."

King Wu said: "If the terrain does not allow ambushes on the enemy's flanks, and our chariots and cavalry cannot loop around their front and rear, and the enemy knows our plans and has prepared against them — our soldiers are disheartened, our commanders afraid, and if we fight we cannot win — what should be done?" Taigong said: "How subtle is my king's question! In such a case, five days before battle, dispatch distant scouts to observe the enemy's movements. Carefully monitor their approach, set ambushes, and wait. You must meet the enemy on death ground. Spread our banners far apart and thin out our battle lines, then rush straight toward the enemy's front and engage them. Once battle is joined, feign retreat — beat the gongs without stopping. After three li, turn back, and let the ambush troops spring up, some striking their flanks, others hitting their front and rear. When the three armies fight with fury, the enemy will surely flee." King Wu said: "Excellent!"