Bao Tao: Few Against Many

King Wu asked Tai Gong:
"If I must attack the many with few, and strike the strong with the weak—how should it be done?"

Tai Gong replied:
"To defeat the many with few, you must use the cover of dusk, ambushing your troops in deep grasslands or striking the enemy on narrow, treacherous paths. To overcome the strong with the weak, you must secure the aid of greater allies and the support of neighboring states."

King Wu asked:
"But what if there are no grasslands for ambush, no narrow paths to exploit, and the enemy arrives not at dusk? What if we lack allies and neighbors to rely on?"

Tai Gong answered:
"Then employ deception—mislead the enemy commander with false displays of strength. Lure them onto circuitous routes, forcing them through dense foliage or delaying their advance until dusk. When their vanguard is mid-crossing and their rear unprepared, unleash your ambush. Strike their flanks with speed and ferocity, while chariots and cavalry disrupt their front and rear. Even a numerous enemy will crumble.

Moreover, serve powerful rulers with respect, befriend wise scholars of neighboring states with courtesy, offer wealth generously, and speak with humility. Thus will you gain their support."

King Wu exclaimed:
"Excellent!"