略地

King Wu asked Taigong: "After winning a battle and advancing deep to seize territory, if there is a great city that cannot be taken, and the enemy's detached forces hold strong positions and resist us — if I wish to besiege the city but fear their detached forces will suddenly arrive and strike us, combining with the defenders inside to attack us from within and without so that the three armies fall into chaos with everyone terrified — what should be done?" Taigong said: "Whenever besieging a city or surrounding a town, chariots and cavalry must be stationed far out as screen guards on alert, blocking all communication between inside and outside. Cut off the city's provisions so no supplies can be delivered from outside. The people in the city will be terrified, and their general will certainly surrender."

King Wu said: "If the city's provisions are exhausted and no supplies can enter, and the defenders secretly conspire and make covert plans, then sally out at night as desperate soldiers fighting to the death — their chariots and elite soldiers striking our interior while others attack our exterior, our soldiers confused, the three armies in disarray — what should be done?" Taigong said: "In such a case, divide the army into three forces and position them carefully according to the terrain. Ascertain precisely where the enemy's detached forces and auxiliary strongholds are located. Deliberately leave an apparent escape route to entice them. Prepare carefully and miss nothing. The enemy, in fear, will not flee to mountain forests but will head for major towns. Pursue their detached forces with chariots and cavalry far ahead to intercept them — let none escape. The defenders inside, believing those who left first found a clear path, will send out their trained soldiers and elite troops, leaving only the old and weak behind. Then drive chariots and cavalry deep in a long pursuit — the enemy's relief forces will certainly not dare approach. Take care not to engage in battle; cut their supply lines, surround them, and maintain the siege over many days."

"Do not burn the people's granaries and storehouses. Do not destroy the people's homes and palaces. Do not cut down trees at graves, shrines, or sacred groves. Do not kill those who surrender. Do not execute those you capture. Show them benevolence and righteousness, bestow generous virtue upon them. Announce to their soldiers and people: 'The guilt lies with one man alone.' In this way, all under heaven will submit in peace." King Wu said: "Excellent!"