Hu Tao: Severing Critical Routes

King Wu asked Grand Duke Jiang:"When leading troops deep into enemy territory, we face a stalemate with opposing forces. The enemy has severed our supply routes and flanked us from the rear, attacking us from both front and back. If we engage in battle, victory seems unlikely; if we hold our position, we cannot endure long. What should we do?" Grand Duke Jiang replied:"To wage war deep in enemy lands, you must first master the terrain. Secure strategic positions—fortify your defenses with mountains, forests, natural barriers, and rivers. Guard passes, bridges, cities, and elevated grounds such as hill tombs. By doing so, your defenses will become impregnable. The enemy will neither cut off your supply lines nor outflank you to attack from both sides." King Wu asked:"When traversing vast forests, marshes, or open plains, if allied forces fail to arrive as scheduled and we suddenly confront the enemy, how should we act? If we attack, victory seems uncertain; if we defend, our position may crumble. The enemy surrounds our flanks and strikes our rear, plunging our army......