Hu Tao: Gongs and Drums

King Wu asked Grand Duke Jiang:
"When leading an army deep into enemy territory, where forces are evenly matched, during extreme cold or heat, or when torrential rains persist day and night for ten days without cease—causing trenches and fortifications to collapse, mountain passes to become indefensible, scouts to grow negligent, and soldiers to lower their guard—if the enemy launches a night assault under these conditions, catching our entire army unprepared and throwing officers and troops into confusion, how should we respond?"

Grand Duke Jiang replied:
"An army that maintains vigilance remains unshaken; one that grows lax faces certain defeat. Ensure that passwords echo continuously across our camps, sentries hold flags to signal internally and externally, commands are relayed without pause, and the sounds of gongs and drums never cease. Soldiers must remain facing the enemy, ready to engage at any moment. Organize every 3,000 men into a fortified unit, strictly disciplined and vigilant. If the enemy attacks and sees our unyielding preparedness, even if they approach our frontlines, fear will force their retreat. Seize this moment—when their momentum falters—to dispatch elite troops to pursue and attack them from the rear."

King Wu asked:
"If the enemy anticipates our pursuit, lays hidden ambushes, and feigns retreat to lure us into their trap—only to turn and strike our front, rear, and camp with their ambush forces, throwing our army into panic, disarray, and chaos—how should we counter this?"

Grand Duke Jiang replied:
"Divide our forces into three contingents to pursue the enemy separately, but avoid entering their ambush zone. Coordinate all three units to converge on the enemy before they reach their ambush zone. Strike their front, rear, and flanks simultaneously, enforcing strict discipline to drive the troops forward relentlessly. This will surely crush the enemy."