Hu Tao: Seizing and Securing Territories

King Wu asked Grand Duke Jiang:
"After our victorious advance deep into enemy territory, we have seized their lands, yet major cities remain unconquered. The enemy retains a force outside these cities, holding strategic positions to confront us. If we besiege the cities, we fear their external troops will launch a sudden attack, coordinating with the defenders inside to trap us between two fronts. This would throw our army into chaos, with officers and soldiers gripped by panic. How should we act?"

Grand Duke Jiang replied:
"When besieging cities, deploy chariots and cavalry at a distance to blockade and guard against reinforcements, severing all communication between the enemy inside and outside. Over time, the city’s grain reserves will deplete, and no external supplies can enter. Desperation will spread among the populace, and the defending commander will have no choice but to surrender."

King Wu asked:
"If the city’s grain runs out and no aid arrives, yet the enemy secretly plots a breakout—launching a desperate night assault with their elite chariots and cavalry, some striking our core, others attacking our flanks—how can we prevent our troops from panic and collapse?"

Grand Duke Jiang answered:
"Divide your forces into three contingents, positioning them strategically based on terrain. Identify the location of the enemy’s external troops and nearby strongholds. Deliberately leave one escape route open to lure the defenders out, but guard it closely to prevent their flight. In their panic, the fleeing enemy will either scatter into forests or flee to another city. Deploy one contingent to drive off their external forces, another to intercept the vanguard of their breakout far from the city, ensuring none escape.

"Believing their vanguard has succeeded, the city’s elite troops will abandon their posts, leaving only the weak and aged behind. Then send your third contingent—chariots and cavalry—to thrust deep into the enemy’s rear. The defenders, now isolated, will dare not attempt further breakouts. Exercise patience: avoid direct engagement, maintain the blockade, and starve them into submission.

"Once the city falls, do not burn its granaries, destroy its homes, cut down its sacred groves, or harm surrendered soldiers or captives. Show mercy to the people, proclaiming that only the tyrant bears guilt. Thus, you will win the hearts of all under Heaven."

King Wu exclaimed: 

"Magnificent wisdom!"