Bao Tao: Sudden Strike

King Wu asked Tai Gong:"When the enemy advances deep into our territory, plundering our lands, seizing our oxen and horses, their massive forces swarm forward and press close to our city walls. Our soldiers are filled with terror, and our civilians are captured as prisoners. Under such circumstances, how can we ensure our defenses remain unshaken and our attacks guarantee victory?" Tai Gong replied:"Such an enemy is called a sudden-strike force (突袭性敌军 tū xí xìng dí jūn). Their oxen and horses surely lack fodder, and their soldiers are certainly without provisions—thus they launch fierce attacks against us. In this situation, you must order our distant garrison forces to select elite troops and swiftly strike the enemy’s rear. Carefully calculate and set a precise time for a coordinated attack, ensuring our forces converge under the cover of darkness. Then, unleash the entire army in a rapid and violent assault. Though the enemy may be numerous, their general will be captured." King Wu asked:"If the enemy divides into three or four divisions—one attacking to seize......