Hu Tao: Swift Battle

King Wu asked Tai Gong：

"If the enemy surrounds our army on all sides, cutting off our communication with the outside and blocking our supply routes, what should we do in such a situation?"

Tai Gong replied：

"This is the most perilous predicament an army can face. In such circumstances, swift action leads to victory, while hesitation spells defeat. The method to break the siege is to deploy the troops in the 'Four-Sided Guard Formation' (四武冲阵), a battle formation with defenses on all sides. Use powerful chariots and valiant cavalry to strike terror into the enemy, throwing them into disarray. Then launch a rapid assault—this will allow you to break through their lines unimpeded."

King Wu asked further：

"If we have already broken through the encirclement and wish to press our advantage to defeat the enemy, how should we proceed?"

Tai Gong answered：

"Order your left flank to swiftly attack the enemy’s left wing, and your right flank to assault their right wing. Avoid competing with the enemy for control of key routes, as this would scatter your forces. Simultaneously, have your central army launch alternating strikes—sometimes attacking their front, sometimes raiding their rear. Even if the enemy is numerous, this strategy will ensure their defeat."