Bao Tao: Confronting a Superior Enemy

King Wu asked Grand Duke Tai:
"When leading troops deep into enemy territory, if we encounter their elite forces in direct combat—where the enemy outnumbers us, is stronger than us, and launches nighttime assaults on our left or right flanks, throwing our entire army into panic—how can we ensure our attacks succeed and our defenses hold firm?"

Grand Duke Tai replied:
"Such an enemy is called a 'shock invader.' To counter them, offensive action is essential; passive defense will fail. Select elite warriors armed with powerful crossbows, deploy chariots and cavalry on both flanks, and strike the enemy’s front with lightning speed while attacking their rear. Assault them from both outside and within their formation. This will throw their ranks into chaos, and their commanders will panic, ensuring their defeat."

King Wu asked again:
"If the enemy blocks our advance from afar, swiftly attacks our rear, cuts off our elite troops, and isolates our reinforcements—leaving our forces disconnected, disordered, and fleeing, with soldiers losing morale and officers abandoning their posts—what should we do?"

Grand Duke Tai answered:
"An excellent question, Your Majesty! In such a crisis, issue clear orders and mobilize your bravest warriors. Equip each soldier with torches, pair two men per drum, and pinpoint the enemy’s exact positions before launching coordinated strikes—either on their outer lines or inner core. Ensure all troops wear hidden identifiers to distinguish allies. Once engaged, extinguish the torches, silence the drums, and execute prearranged maneuvers. Attack with relentless ferocity, and the enemy will collapse."

King Wu exclaimed:
"Brilliant!"