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衛公李靖兵法曰： |
| | The military strategy of Wei Gong Li Jing says:
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諸逢平原廣澤，無險可恃，即作方營。兵既有二萬人，已分為七軍，中軍四千人，左右四軍各二千六百人，虞候兩軍各二千八百人。左右軍及左右虞候軍別三營，六軍都當十八營，中軍作一大營。如其無賊，田土寬平，每營中閒使容一營。如地狹，不得使容一營，中軍在中央，六軍總管在四畔，象六出花。軍出日，右虞候引前，其營在中營前右廂向南，左虞候押後，在中營後左廂近北，結角，兩虞候相當，狀同丑未。若左虞候在前，即右虞候在後，諸軍並卻轉。其左右兩廂營在四面，各令依近本軍卓幕，得相統攝，急緩須有救援。若欲得放馬，其營幕即狹長卓，務取營裏寬廣，不使街巷窄狹。如其拓隊兵少，量抽不戰隊相助。如兵有多少，準數臨時加減。其隊去幕二十步，布列使均。諸地帶半險，須作月營：其營單列，面平背險，兩翅向險，如月初生。其營相去，中閒亦令容一營。如逼賊庭，不得使容一營。若有警急，畜牧並於營後安置，其隊依前，於營外去幕二十步，均列布之。 |
| | When encountering flat plains and wide marshes where there are no dangers to rely on, immediately set up a square camp. With an army of 20,000 men already divided into seven armies: the central army has 4,000 soldiers; each of the left and right four armies has 2,600 soldiers respectively; and each of the two rear guard armies has 2,800 soldiers. The left and right armies as well as the left and right rear guard armies each set up three camps, making a total of eighteen camps for the six armies. The central army sets up one large camp. If there are no enemies and the land is wide and level, leave enough space within each camp to accommodate another camp. If the land is narrow and it is not possible to leave space for an additional camp, place the central army in the center, with the six army commanders positioned on all four sides, forming a pattern resembling the six petals of a flower. On the day the army departs, the right rear guard unit leads ahead; its camp is located in the southern part of the right wing in front of the central camp. The left rear guard unit follows behind, with its camp situated near the northern side of the left wing at the back of the central camp, forming a corner. The two rear guard units face each other and are arranged like the directions Chou and Wei. If the left rear guard unit is in front, then the right rear guard unit should be at the back; all other units must accordingly shift their positions. The camps of the left and right wings should be located on all four sides; each unit is ordered to set up its tents near its own army, so that they can coordinate with one another. In times of urgency or difficulty, there must be mutual support and rescue available. If it is desired to graze horses, the tents should be set up in a narrow and elongated formation; efforts must be made to ensure that the interior of the camp is spacious, avoiding narrow alleys. If the number of soldiers in the vanguard unit is small, appropriate reinforcements should be drawn from non-combat units to assist them. If there are more or fewer troops, adjust their numbers accordingly based on circumstances at the time. Each unit should be stationed 20 bu away from the tents and arranged evenly in formation. In areas with partial dangers, a crescent-shaped camp must be established: the camp should be arranged in a single line, facing flat ground and turning its back to danger. The two flanks should face toward the dangerous terrain, resembling the shape of a newly born moon. The distance between camps should also allow space for another camp in between. If the enemy is nearby, it may not be possible to leave room for an additional camp. In case of emergency, livestock should be placed behind the camp; the units remain in their original positions and are arranged outside the camp at a distance of 20 bu from the tents, evenly distributed.
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諸道狹不可並行者，即第一戰鋒隊為首，其次右戰隊次之，其次左戰隊次之，其次右駐隊次之，其次左駐隊次之。若道平川闊，可得並行者，宜作統行法。其統法：每統，戰鋒隊居前，兩戰隊並行次之，又兩駐隊並行次之，餘統準此。若更堪齊頭行者，每統五隊，橫列齊行，後統次之。如每統三百人，簡取二百五十人，分為五隊，第一隊為戰鋒隊，第二、第三隊為戰隊，第四、第五隊為駐隊，每隊隊頭一人，副隊頭一人；其下等五十人，為輜重隊，別著隊頭一人，副隊頭一人，擬戰日押輜重遙為聲援。若兵數更多，皆此類。 |
| | In narrow paths where parallel movement is not possible, the first vanguard unit should lead, followed by the right combat unit, then the left combat unit, followed by the right stationary unit, and finally the left stationary unit. If the road is wide and flat enough to allow parallel movement, it is advisable to adopt the unified marching method. The unified formation is as follows: in each group, the vanguard unit leads, followed by two combat units marching side by side; then come the two stationary units also marching side by side. The remaining groups follow this same pattern. If conditions allow for simultaneous front-line movement, each group should consist of five units arranged in a horizontal line moving forward together, with the following groups proceeding accordingly. For example, if each group consists of 300 men, select 250 men and divide them into five units: the first unit is the vanguard unit; the second and third units are combat units; the fourth and fifth units are stationary units. Each unit has one team leader (dui tou) and one deputy team leader (fudei tou). The remaining 50 men of lower rank form the supply unit, separately assigned one team leader and one deputy team leader. On the day of battle, they are responsible for guarding supplies and providing distant support. If there are more troops, all should follow this pattern.
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諸軍當軍折衝、果毅，必須排定隊伍，每行引發營，須依次第。戰日有罪須罰，有功須賞，依名排次，甚為省易。不然推逐稍難，爭競不定。 |
| | The commanding officers of each army, such as Zhechong and Guoyi, must arrange the troops in formation. When leading a unit out from camp, they must proceed in order. On the day of battle, those who commit offenses must be punished and those with meritorious service must be rewarded; rewards and punishments should follow the list in order, which is very convenient. Otherwise, it will be difficult to identify individuals for punishment or reward, leading to disputes and uncertainty.
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諸每隊給一旗，行則引隊，住則立於隊前。其大總管及副總管則立十旗以上，子總管則立四旗以上，行則引前，住則立於帳側。統頭亦別給異色旗，擬臨陣之時，辨其進退。駐隊等旗，別樣別造，令引輜重。各令本軍營隊，識認此旗。 |
| | Each unit should be given one flag; when marching, the flag leads the unit, and when halted, it is placed in front of the unit. The chief commander and deputy commanders should have more than ten flags, while the sub-commanders should have at least four. When marching, these flags lead the way; when halted, they are placed beside the command tent. Each group leader should also be given a flag of a different color so that during battle, their commands for advancing or retreating can be clearly identified. The flags for the stationary units should be made in distinctive styles to guide the supply wagons. Each unit and camp must recognize these flags as their own.
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諸軍相去既遠，語聲難徹，走馬報又勞煩，故建旗幟，用為節度。其方面旗舉，當方面兵急須裝束；旗向前亞，方面兵急須進；旗正豎，即住；旗臥，即迴。審細看大將所舉之旗。 |
| | Since the distance between armies is great, voices cannot be heard clearly and sending mounted messengers to report is laborious. Therefore, flags are raised as a means of command and coordination. When the directional flag is raised, troops in that direction must immediately prepare for action; If the flag tilts forward, the troops of that direction should advance quickly; if the flag is held upright, they must halt; If the flag lies flat, they should retreat. Carefully observe the flags raised by the general.
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諸大將置鼓四十面，子總管給十面，營別給鼓一面，行即負隨纛下，晝夜及在道有警急，擊之傳響，令諸軍嚴警，兼用防備賊侵逼。如軍行引之時，先軍卒逢賊寇，先軍即急擊之鼓，中腰及後軍聞聲，急須向前相救；中腰逢賊，即須擊鼓，前軍聞聲便住，後軍聞聲須急向前赴救；後頭逢賊，即擊鼓，前頭、中腰聞聲即須住，並量抽兵相救。如發引稍長，鼓聲不徹，中腰支料更須置鼓傳響，使前後得聞。其諸營自須著鼓一面，用防夜中有賊犯營，即急擊，令諸軍有警備。 |
| | The general should be equipped with 40 drums, each sub-commander with ten, and each camp with one. When marching, the drum must be carried under the banner. During the day or night, or when on the road in case of an emergency, it is struck to send a signal, alerting all troops to remain vigilant and also serving as a precaution against enemy attacks. If, during the march, the vanguard encounters enemy forces first, they should immediately strike the drum. The middle and rear units hearing the sound must quickly advance to provide assistance; if the central unit encounters enemies, they should strike the drum immediately. Upon hearing the sound, the front unit must halt and the rear unit must quickly move forward to provide rescue; if the rear unit encounters enemies, it should strike the drum. Upon hearing the sound, both the front and central units must immediately halt and dispatch appropriate forces to provide assistance. If the marching column is long and the drum sound cannot be heard clearly, additional drums should be placed in the middle section to relay the signal so that both front and rear units can hear it. Each camp must have its own drum to guard against enemy attacks at night; if an attack occurs, the drum should be struck immediately to alert all troops and prepare them for defense.
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諸行軍立營數多，則計或逢泥溺，或阻山河，同聽角聲，俱共齊發，路狹難進，徒餓馬驢。應發營第一角聲絕，右虞候捉馬驢；第二角聲絕，即被駕，右一軍捉馬驢；第三角聲絕，右虞候即發引，右一軍被駕，右二軍捉馬驢；第四角聲絕，右一軍即發引，右二軍被駕。以後諸軍，每聽角聲，裝束被駕準此。每營各出一戰隊，令取虞候進止，防有賊至，便用騰擊，前有賊前頭用，後有賊迴捍後。如其路更細小，即須更加角聲，仍令虞候及當營官人虞候子排比，催督急過，不得停擁。過訖，以後軍準前排比，催迫急過。 |
| | When marching and setting up many camps, it is possible to encounter mud or be blocked by mountains and rivers. In such cases, all units should listen for the horn signal and proceed together at the same time. If the road is narrow and difficult to advance through, it will only result in wasted effort and hunger for horses and donkeys. When the first horn signal sounds to begin departure from camp, the right rear guard is responsible for gathering the horses and donkeys; after the second horn ends, they are immediately harnessed, with one unit on the right collecting the horses and donkeys; after the third horn ends, the right rear guard immediately departs at the head of the column; one unit on the right is harnessed and two units on the right collect horses and donkeys; after the fourth horn ends, one unit on the right immediately departs at the front of the column, while two units on the right are harnessed. All subsequent units should follow this procedure: upon hearing each horn signal, they prepare and harness their animals accordingly. Each camp should dispatch one combat unit to follow the rear guard and monitor their movements, in case enemies approach. This unit can then quickly respond by launching an attack: if enemies are ahead, they strike from the front; if enemies come from behind, they turn around to defend the rear. If the road becomes even narrower, additional horn signals must be added. The rear guard and officers of each camp should also organize their subordinates to coordinate closely, urging them to pass quickly without stopping or causing congestion. After passing through, the rear units must follow the same order and be urged forward with equal urgency to proceed swiftly.
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諸軍馬行動，得知次第。出，先右虞候馬軍為首，次右虞候步軍，次右軍馬軍，次右軍步軍，次前軍馬軍，次前軍步軍，次中軍馬軍，次中軍步軍，次後軍馬軍，次後軍步軍，次左軍馬軍，次左軍步軍，其次左虞候馬軍，次左虞候步軍。其馬軍去步軍兵一二里外行，每有高處，即令三五騎馬於上立，四顧以候不虞。以後餘軍，準前立馬四顧。右虞候既先發安營，踏行道路，修理泥溺、橋津，檢行水草；左虞候排窄路、橋津，捍後，收拾闌遺，排比隊仗，整齊軍次，使不交雜。若軍迴入，先左虞候馬軍，次左虞候步軍，次左馬軍，次左步軍，其次第準前卻轉。其虞候軍職掌，準初發交換。 |
| | The movement of all military horses should be carried out in an orderly sequence. When departing, the right rear guard cavalry unit leads first, followed by the right rear guard infantry; then comes the right army cavalry and infantry, followed by the vanguard cavalry and infantry. Next are the central army cavalry and infantry units, followed by those of the rear army, then the left army cavalry and infantry. Finally come the left rear guard cavalry and infantry units. The cavalry should march one or two li ahead of the infantry. Whenever there is high ground, order three to five mounted soldiers to stand on it and look around in all directions to be prepared for unexpected dangers. The remaining units should follow the same procedure: when appropriate, station cavalrymen at high places to observe in all directions. The right rear guard unit departs first to set up the camp, survey the roads, clear mud and waterlogged areas, repair bridges and fords, and inspect sources of water and grass; the left rear guard unit arranges narrow roads and fords, guards the rear, collects any stragglers or lost items, organizes troop formations, ensures orderly ranks of soldiers, and prevents disorder. If the army is returning to camp, the left rear guard cavalry unit goes first, followed by its infantry; then come the left cavalry and infantry units. The rest follow in reverse order as previously arranged. The responsibilities of the rear guard units are to be exchanged accordingly, following their initial deployment instructions.
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諸軍營各量置虞候子，並使排比，依軍次行。如此發引，卒逢寇賊，部伍甚易；若零疊散行，牽率難就，萬一賊至，並非所管。 |
| | Each army and camp should appropriately assign subordinates for the rear guards, organize them in formation, and march according to their assigned order. By following this method of departure, if suddenly encountering enemy forces, troop organization remains orderly; if troops are scattered and move in a disorganized manner, it will be difficult to coordinate them. In the event of an enemy attack, such disorder would make effective command impossible.
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諸軍討伐，例有數營，發引逢賊，首尾難救。行引之時，須先為方陣，應行之兵，分為四分，輜重為兩道引，戰鋒等隊亦為兩道引：其第一分初發，輜重及戰鋒分為四道行，兩行輜重在中心雙引，兩行戰鋒隊並各在輜重外，左右夾雙引；其次一分，戰鋒隊與前般左右行戰鋒隊相當，輜重隊與前行輜重相當；又其次一分，準上；最後一分，亦準上。初發第一分引，戰鋒、輜重相當。如其逢賊，前後分四行，兩行輜重抽縮，兩行戰鋒橫引，作前面甚易。其次兩分，先作四行長引，其戰鋒即在外，便充兩面。其後分亦先作四行，其輜重進前，戰鋒隊橫列相接，便充後面亦易。其方陣立即可成。如此發引，縱使狹路，急緩亦得成陣。每軍戰鋒等隊，須過本軍輜重尾，輜重稠行，戰鋒等隊稠引，常令輜重併近前頭。戰鋒隊相去十步下一隊，輜重隊相去兩步下一隊，如此行，即須相裹得，若逢川陸平坦，彌加穩便。其戰鋒、輜重等隊，分布使均。 |
| | When armies go on a campaign, they usually consist of multiple camps; if during the march they encounter enemies, it will be difficult for the front and rear to come to each other's aid. When marching, it is essential to first form a square formation. The troops that are to march should be divided into four sections; the supply wagons should move in two columns, and the vanguard units should also proceed in two columns: when the first section departs initially, the supply wagons and vanguard forces divide into four lanes for movement, with two rows moving forward The supply wagons move in the center with two parallel columns; each of the vanguard units moves alongside them on either side, forming two additional parallel columns. The second section should have vanguard units that align with the left and right vanguard units of the previous group, while its supply wagons match up with those in front. The third section follows the same arrangement as above; the last section also follows this pattern. When the first group departs, the vanguard and supply wagons are aligned accordingly. If enemies are encountered, the four rows of troops can be arranged front and back. The two supply wagon columns should withdraw slightly, while the two vanguard units form a horizontal line at the front, making it easy to face the enemy. The next two sections should first be arranged in four rows for a long march, with vanguard units positioned on the outside to cover both flanks. The rear sections should also be arranged in four rows, with the supply wagons moving forward and the vanguard units forming a horizontal line to connect them. This makes it easy for the rear section to provide support as well. The square formation can be immediately established. By following this method of marching, even in narrow roads, the formation can still be quickly assembled whether in urgent or relaxed situations. Each army's vanguard units must pass the end of their own supply wagons. The supply wagons should march closely together, and the vanguard units also move in close formation, ensuring that the supply wagons remain near the front at all times. The vanguard units should maintain a distance of ten bu between each unit, while the supply wagon units keep two bu apart. By following this formation, they can closely support one another; if encountering flat land or plains, this arrangement becomes even more stable and convenient. The vanguard units and supply wagon units should be evenly distributed.
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諸軍馬既逼賊庭，探候事須明審。諸營住及營行，前後及左右廂肋上，五里著馬兩騎，十里更加兩騎。十五里更加兩騎，至三十里，一道用人馬十二騎。若兵多，發引稍長，肋上即更量加一兩道，使令相見。其乘馬人，每令遙相見，常接高行，各執一方面異旗，無賊此旗常卷，見賊即須速展。軍營見旗展，即知賊至，須覓穩處。既先知賊來，得設機伏，整齊部伍，迎前出戰。其最遠及以次遠人，須與好馬乘騎，不然被賊捉將。 |
| | When the army's cavalry is close to the enemy, it becomes essential for scouts to conduct thorough and accurate reconnaissance. When a camp is stationary or on the move, two mounted scouts should be stationed every five li along the front, back, and both flanks; an additional two riders should be added for every ten li. At fifteen li, add another two riders, so that by thirty li, one route requires a total of twelve mounted men and horses. If the number of troops is large and the marching column becomes long, additional lines of one or two riders should be added along the flanks to ensure visibility. The riders on horseback should always be able to see each other from a distance, maintaining an elevated vantage point. Each rider must hold a flag of distinct color representing one direction; in the absence of enemies, these flags remain rolled up, but if enemies are spotted, they must be quickly unfurled. When a camp sees the flag being raised, it immediately knows that the enemy is approaching and must seek a secure position. Having prior knowledge of the enemy's approach allows for the setting up of ambushes, orderly troop organization, and a proactive advance to engage in battle. Those stationed farthest away and those next in distance must ride the best horses; otherwise, they risk being captured by the enemy.
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諸軍馬擬停三五日，即須去軍一二百里以來，安置爟烽，如有動靜，舉烽相報。其烽並於賊路左側逐要置，每二十里置一烽應接，令遣到軍。其遊弈馬騎，晝日遊弈候視，至暮速作食，喫訖，即移十里外止宿，慮防賊徒暮閒見煙火，夜深掩襲捉將。其賊路左右草中，著人止宿，以聽賊徒，如覺來，報烽煙家，舉烽遞報軍司：如覺十騎以上，五十騎以下，即放一炬火，前烽應訖，即滅火；若一百騎以上，二百騎以下，即放兩炬火，準前應滅；賊若五百騎以上，五千騎以下同，即放三炬火，準前應滅。前鋒應訖，即赴軍，若慮走不到軍，即且投山谷，逐空方可赴軍。如以次烽候視不覺，其舉火之烽即須差人，急走告知。賊路既置爟烽，軍內即須應接。又置一都烽，應接四山諸烽。其都烽如見煙火，急報大總管，云「某道煙火起」，大總管當須嚴備，收拾畜生，遣人遠探。每烽令別奏一人押，一道烽令折衝、果毅一人都押。 |
| | If the cavalry is to halt for three or five days, it must station beacon towers one or two hundred li away from the main army. If any movement or activity occurs, beacons should be lit to send warnings and reports. The beacon towers must be placed along the left side of the enemy's likely route at key points, with one tower set up every twenty li to relay messages and ensure they reach the army. The mounted scouts on patrol should conduct reconnaissance during the day. By dusk, they must quickly prepare food and finish eating before moving to a location ten li away for the night's rest. This is done to prevent enemy forces from spotting smoke or fire at night and launching a surprise attack in the early hours. Along the enemy's route, people should be stationed to rest in the grass on both sides to listen for any movement of the enemy. If they detect an approaching force, they must immediately report to the beacon tower and light a signal fire to relay the message to the army headquarters: if ten or more but fewer than fifty riders are detected, one torch is lit; once the preceding beacon has responded, the fire should be extinguished; if more than 100 but fewer than 200 riders are detected, two torches should be lit and extinguished in the same manner as before; if the enemy force is more than 500 but fewer than 5,000 riders, three torches should be lit in accordance with the previous procedure and then extinguished. After the preceding beacon has responded to the signal, the scout should proceed toward the army; if there is concern that they cannot reach the main force in time, they may temporarily take refuge in a valley or an open area before continuing on. If subsequent beacon towers fail to detect the signal, the tower that lit the fire must immediately dispatch a messenger to run and inform them urgently. Once beacon towers are established along the enemy route, the army must be prepared to respond accordingly. Also establish one central beacon tower to coordinate and respond to all the beacon signals from the surrounding mountains. If the central beacon tower observes smoke or fire, it must immediately report to the supreme commander, stating "Smoke and fire have been spotted along a certain route." Upon receiving this report, the supreme commander should be on high alert, prepare all animals, and dispatch scouts to investigate at a distance. Each beacon tower must have one designated officer in charge; for each line of beacons, the Zhechong and Guoyi officers should jointly oversee them.
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諸軍營將發之時，當營跳盪、奇兵、馬軍去營二三里外，當面布列；戰鋒隊、駐隊各持仗，依營四面去擬徹幕處二十步，布列隊伍，一如臨陣法。待營中裝束輜重訖，其步兵、輜重隊二十步引，馬軍去步軍二里外行引。 |
| | When the various military camps are about to depart, the Tiaodang forces, special troops, and cavalry should be stationed two or three li away from the camp in a formation facing outward; the Zhanfeng squad and the Zhudui forces should each hold their weapons, forming ranks twenty paces away from where the tents are to be removed on all four sides of the camp, arranged exactly as in a battlefield formation. After all the preparations and loading of supplies within the camp are completed, the infantry and supply units should proceed twenty paces ahead; the cavalry should march two li in front of the infantry.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸軍營將下之時，當營跳盪、奇兵、馬軍並戰鋒隊、駐隊各令嚴備持仗，一準發法。待當營卓幕訖，方可立隊，釋仗，各於本隊下安置。若有警急，隨方禦捍。其馬軍下營訖，取總管進止，其馬合群牧放。 |
| | When the various military camps are preparing to descend, the Tiaodang force, special troops, cavalry, Zhanfeng squad, and Zhudui forces must all be strictly prepared with weapons at hand, following exactly the procedures for deployment. Only after the tents of the camp have been set up can the ranks be formed, weapons put down, and each unit take their designated positions within their respective squads. If there is an emergency or alarm, they should immediately respond and defend in any direction as needed. After the cavalry has set up camp, they must await instructions from the supreme commander; then, the horses should be grouped and pastured together.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸兵馬發引，或逆泥溺，或阻山河，其路有須填補，有須開拓。左右虞候軍兵，先多於諸軍取充虞候子，右虞候先將此兵修理橋梁泥滓，開拓窄路；左虞候排窄路，捍後，收拾闌遺。 |
| | When troops or cavalry are on the march, they may encounter mud or water obstacles, or be blocked by mountains and rivers. In such cases, some roads will need to be filled in, while others must be cleared and expanded. The left and right Yuhou military units should first recruit sufficient assistants from the various armies. The Right Yuhou unit should lead these troops in repairing bridges, clearing mud and debris, and widening narrow roads; the Left Yuhou unit is responsible for arranging the narrow paths, guarding the rear, and collecting any lost or abandoned items.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸兵士每下營訖，先令兩隊共掘一廁。 |
| | After each group of soldiers has set up camp, two squads should be assigned to dig one latrine together.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸行軍出師，兵士不得浪費衣資，廣為喫用。又不得近田苗及城市下營，須去城十里外。要有市賈入城，營司判官許，差人押領，不許輒入城郭。必免酗酒、鬥打、偷盜、姦非，亦不損暴田苗也。 |
| | When troops are on a military campaign, soldiers must not waste clothing or supplies and must not indulge in excessive eating or consumption. They also must not set up camp near farmland or within cities; camps should be established at least ten li outside the city walls. If merchants wish to enter the city, they must obtain permission from the camp's assistant officer and be escorted by assigned personnel; no one is allowed to enter the walled city without authorization. Soldiers must absolutely refrain from drunkenness, fighting, theft, and immoral conduct, nor may they damage or trample farmland.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸兵馬每下營訖，營主即須句當四司官典、司兵及左右，令分頭巡隊，問兵士到否。如有卒忽未到，即差本隊、本火主，將畜生及水食卻迎取。如其逃走，速差人捕捉。 |
| | After the troops have set up camp, the commander must immediately summon the four administrative officers of the camp—the officer in charge of military affairs and those on the left and right—and order them to patrol separately, checking whether all soldiers are present. If any soldier is suddenly found missing, the squad leader and fire unit head should be dispatched to retrieve their animals, water, and food supplies from where they were left. If it turns out that the soldier has fled, people must be sent immediately to capture him.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸軍下營訖，司騎及佐，分頭巡隊，檢驗驢馬群，先有脊破，即令翦毛洗瘡，傅藥療救，不許連絆；如新打破，作瘡腫，并有繫絆，即將所由人領過營主，量事決罰。司冑及佐，下營訖即巡隊，檢校兵甲等色，如有破綻損汙，須即修緝磨礪；如其棄失，申上所由，便為按記，準法科結。司倉及佐，捉搦兵士糧食，封署點檢，勿令廣費。 |
| | After the army has set up camp, the officer in charge of horses and his assistants should patrol separately to inspect the herds of donkeys and horses. If any animal is found with a broken back or injury, they must immediately have its hair clipped, clean the wound, apply medicine for treatment, and ensure it is not left untreated; if a new injury or swelling has occurred, and the animal is found to be tied up inappropriately, the person responsible must be brought before the camp commander for appropriate punishment. The officer in charge of armor and his assistants, after the camp is set up, must patrol to inspect all types of weapons and armor. If any damage or dirt is found, it must be immediately repaired, cleaned, sharpened, and polished; if any equipment has been lost or abandoned, the responsible person should report it to the authorities for record-keeping, and legal action must be taken in accordance with established regulations. The officer in charge of the granary and his assistants must manage the soldiers' food supplies, seal them properly for inspection, and ensure that there is no excessive waste.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸軍營下定，事須防禦。於營外去幕二十步，列隊仗，如臨陣對寇法，晝夜嚴警。縱逢雨雪，并押隊官並不得離隊。每營留五疋馬，并鞍轡放飼，防有警急，即令馳告。至夜，每陣前百步外，各著聽子二人，一更一替，以聽不虞。仍令探更人探聽子細，勿令眠睡。其晝日，諸軍前各亦逐高要處，安置斥候，以視動靜。 |
| | Once a military camp has been established, defensive measures must be taken with utmost care. Twenty paces outside the tents in the camp, troops should form ranks and hold weapons as if facing an enemy on a battlefield, maintaining strict vigilance both day and night. Even when encountering rain or snow, the officers in charge of each unit must not leave their posts. Each camp should reserve five horses along with saddles and reins for feeding, in case of an emergency when they must be quickly ridden to deliver urgent messages. At night, two scouts should be stationed one hundred paces in front of each formation; they must take turns every watch to listen for any unexpected threats. Additionally, the night-watch scouts should carefully patrol and remain alert, not allowing themselves to fall asleep. During the day, each army unit must also station scouts at high and strategic locations to observe for any signs of movement or activity.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸軍營隊伍，每夜分更，令人巡探。人不得高聲唱號，行者敲弓一下，坐者扣桕三下，方擲軍號，以相應會。當營界探，周而復始。擲號錯失，便即決罰。當軍折衝、果毅，並押鋪宿，盡更巡探，遞相分付；虞候及中軍官人，通探都巡。 |
| | Each night, the ranks within the military camp should be divided into shifts, with personnel assigned to patrol and investigate. Patrols must not shout loudly or call out names; instead, those on foot should tap their bow once while walking, and seated personnel should knock three times against a piece of wood. Only then may the military signal be given to coordinate with others. Patrols along the camp perimeter must proceed in a continuous, circular manner, repeating endlessly. If there is any mistake or failure in transmitting signals, immediate punishment shall be given. The Zhechong and Guoyie officers of the army must jointly oversee night quarters, patrol throughout all shifts, and pass on responsibilities to each other in rotation; the Yuhou officers and mid-level military officials should conduct overall patrols together.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸軍營常須慮有卒急，要設外鋪。每夜，軍別量抽三五人，於當軍前，或於軍側三五里外，穩便要害之處，安置外鋪，仍令各將一兩面鼓自隨。如夜中有賊犯大營，其外鋪看賊與大營交戰，即從鳴鼓大叫，以擊賊後，乘得機便，必當克捷。 |
| | Military camps must always be prepared for sudden emergencies, so outer night quarters should be established. Each night, three to five men should be selected from each army unit and stationed either ahead of the main force or on its flanks at a distance of three to five li in stable yet strategically important locations for outer night quarters. They must also carry one or two drums with them as they go. If enemy forces attack the main camp at night, and if the outer night quarters observe that the enemy is engaged in battle with the main force, they should immediately sound their drums and shout loudly to strike from behind the enemy. Seizing this opportunity will surely lead to a decisive victory.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸軍營下定，每營夜別置外探。每營折衝、果毅相知作次，每夜面別四人，各領五騎馬，於營四面去營十里外遊弈，以備非常。如有警急，奔馳報軍。 |
| | Once each military camp is established, outer scouts must be stationed separately at night for every camp. The Zhechong and Guo Yi officers of each camp should coordinate in advance, assigning four individuals per night to lead five cavalrymen each. These groups must patrol ten li beyond the four sides of the camp at night to be prepared for any unexpected events. If an emergency occurs, they should ride quickly to report it back to the main army.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸晝日有賊犯營，被犯之營即急擊鼓，諸營亦擊鼓相應。應訖，無賊之營即止；唯所犯之營，非賊散，鼓聲不得輒止。諸軍各著衣甲持仗，看大將五方旗所指之方，即是賊來之路，裝束兵馬，出前布陣，諸軍嚴警。如須兵救，一聽大總管進止，不得輒動。 |
| | During the day, if enemy forces attack a camp, the attacked camp must immediately sound its drum, and all other camps should also beat their drums in response. After responding, those camps not under attack may cease beating their drums; only the camp that is being attacked should continue sounding its drum until the enemy has dispersed, and must not stop without cause. All units must don armor and weapons, observe the direction indicated by the general's five-colored flags to determine where the enemy is coming from, prepare troops and horses, deploy forward into formation, and maintain strict vigilance. If reinforcements are needed, all units must await the supreme commander's orders and must not act on their own initiative.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸夜有賊犯軍營，被犯之營擊鼓傳警，一如晝日，非賊去不得輒止。仍須盡力禦捍，百方防備。諸軍擊鼓傳警訖，鼓音即止，各自防備，不得輒動。被犯之營，賊侵逼急，即令告中軍，大總管自將兵救；餘軍各準常法，於營前後出隊布陣，以聽進止。 |
| | If enemy forces attack a military camp at night, the attacked camp must beat its drum to sound an alarm in exactly the same manner as during the day; it may not stop beating until the enemy has withdrawn. They must also make every effort to defend and resist, employing all possible means for protection. After the drum signals have been sounded as an alarm by each unit, the drumming must cease immediately; all units should prepare their own defenses and must not move without orders. If the attacked camp is under urgent threat from enemy forces, it should immediately report to the central command; the supreme commander will then personally lead troops to provide relief. The remaining units must follow standard procedures, forming ranks in front of and behind the camp as instructed by further orders.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸狂賊夜來犯，被犯之營但擊鼓拒戰，不得叫喚。諸營擊鼓傳警訖，鼓音即止，當頭著衣甲防備。被犯之營既鼓聲不止，大總管自將兵救。先與諸將平章，兵士或隨身將胡桃鈴為標記，不然打鼓從內向外，以相救助。其被犯之營，聞鼓鐸之聲，即知大總管兵至。其軍內節度，大總管臨時改變處分，每晨朝即共諸軍將論一日事，至暮即共論一夜事。若先為久長定法，則恐有漏洩，狂賊萬一得知，翻輸機便。 |
| | If a band of fierce enemies attacks at night, the attacked unit must only beat its drum and resist in battle; it must not shout or make loud noises. After all camps have finished beating their drums to sound the alarm, drumming should cease immediately, and those in command must don armor and prepare for defense. If the attacked camp continues beating its drums without ceasing, the supreme commander shall personally lead troops to rescue it. The general should first consult with all the officers; soldiers may either carry walnuts or bells as markers, or alternatively beat drums from within outward to signal and assist one another. The attacked camp will know that the supreme commander's reinforcements have arrived upon hearing the sound of drums or bells. The internal organization and command within the army are subject to adjustments made by the supreme commander at his discretion. Each morning, he should meet with all military commanders to discuss matters for the day; each evening, they should gather again to review events of the night. If plans and long-term strategies are set in advance, there is a risk of information being leaked. Should the enemy somehow learn about them, they might gain an unexpected advantage instead.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸且以二萬人軍，用一萬四千人戰，計二百八十隊。有賊，將出戰布陣，先從右虞候軍引出，即次右軍，即次前軍，即次中軍，即次後軍，即次左軍，即次左虞候軍。除馬軍八十隊，其步軍有二百隊。其中軍三十六隊，左右虞候兩軍各二十八隊，共五十六隊，其左右廂四軍各二十七隊，共一百隊。須先造大隊，以三隊合為一隊，慮防賊徒併兵衝突。其隊居當軍中心，安置使均。其大隊一十五隊，中軍三隊，餘六軍各二隊。通五十人隊，合有一百七十隊，為戰、駐等隊。隊別通隊，及街閒空處，據地二十步；十隊當二百步，以八十五隊為戰隊，據地計一千七百步。其八十五隊為駐隊，塞空處。其馬軍，各在當戰隊後，駐軍左右，下馬立。布陣訖，鼓音發，其弩手去賊一百五十步即發箭，弓手去賊六十步即發箭。若賊至二十步內，即射手、弩手俱捨弓弩，令駐隊人收。其弓拏手先絡膊，將刀棒自隨，即與戰鋒隊齊入奮擊。其馬軍、跳盪、奇兵亦不得輒動。若步兵被賊蹙迴，其跳盪、奇兵、馬軍即迎前騰擊，步兵即須卻迴，整頓援前。若跳盪及奇兵、馬軍被賊排退，戰鋒等隊即須齊進奮擊。其賊卻退，奇兵及馬軍亦不得遠趁，審知賊驚怖散亂，然可乘馬追趁。其駐隊不得輒動。前卻打賊，退敗收軍，舉槍卷幡，一依教法。如營不牢固，無險可恃，即軍別量抽一兩隊充駐隊，使堅營壘。如其輜重牢固，不要防守，駐隊亦須出戰也。 |
| | For a force of twenty thousand soldiers, fourteen thousand should be allocated for combat, forming two hundred and eighty squads in total. When an enemy is encountered and the army prepares to deploy for battle, the Right Yuhou force should lead the way first, followed by the Right Army, then the Vanguard, then the Central Army, next the Rear Guard, then the Left Army, and finally the Left Yuhou. In addition to eighty cavalry squads, there are two hundred infantry squads. The Central Army consists of thirty-six squads, and the Left and Right Yuhou forces each have twenty-eight squads, totaling fifty-six. The four wings of the Left and Right Armies each have twenty-seven squads, making a total of one hundred squads. It is necessary to first form large squads by combining three smaller squads into one, in order to prevent the enemy from concentrating their forces and launching a sudden attack. The squad should be positioned at the center of its respective unit for balanced deployment. There are fifteen large squads in total: three from the Central Army and two each from the remaining six units. Combining fifty-person squads, there will be a total of one hundred seventy squads designated for combat or garrison duties. Each squad should maintain spacing between ranks and in open areas according to the standard distance of twenty paces; Ten squads occupy a space of two hundred paces, so eighty-five combat squads will cover a total distance of one thousand seven hundred paces. The remaining eight garrison squads should be stationed in the gaps or empty spaces to fill them. The cavalry units must each position themselves behind their respective combat squads, on either side of the garrison forces, and dismount to stand in formation. After the formation is set, when the drum signals are given, the crossbowmen should fire their arrows at a distance of one hundred and fifty paces from the enemy, while archers should shoot at sixty paces. If the enemy approaches within twenty paces, both bowmen and crossbowmen must drop their weapons, which will then be collected by the garrison troops. The bow carriers should first secure their arms with straps, carry a knife or club with them, and then charge forward together with the Zhanfeng squad to engage in close combat. The cavalry, Tiaodang forces, and special troops must not move without orders either. If the infantry is forced to retreat by enemy pressure, the Tiaodang and special troops as well as the cavalry must immediately advance forward to counterattack. The retreating infantry should then fall back in order, regroup, and provide support from behind. If the Tiaodang or special troops and cavalry are driven back by the enemy, the Zhanfeng squads and other units must immediately advance together to launch a fierce counterattack. If the enemy retreats, the special troops and cavalry must not pursue too far. They should wait until they confirm that the enemy is in a state of panic and disorder before mounting their horses to chase them down. The garrison units must not move without orders. Whether advancing to attack the enemy or retreating in defeat, troops should raise their spears and roll up their banners strictly according to established military instructions. If a camp is not secure or lacks natural defenses, each unit should assign one or two squads as garrison forces to reinforce the fortifications and strengthen the camp. If the supply lines are secure and do not require defense, then the garrison units must also participate in combat operations.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸逢賊布陣，須有次第。先右虞候為首，其次右軍，其次前軍，其次中軍，其次後軍，其次左軍，其次左虞候。其諸軍跳盪、奇兵、馬軍，各隨本軍以次行。至戰所，並於本軍戰鋒隊、駐隊前布列，待五方旗節度。如戰鋒等隊打賊不入，其跳盪、奇兵排後即入。每入山谷林木蒙密之處并渡水狹路及下營戰處，百里以來，總須搜踏清靜。不然，兵引過半，臨戰下營，伏兵起發，致損軍旅。其收軍還營，卻抽左虞候先入，即左軍、後軍、中軍、前軍、右軍、右虞候。 |
| | Whenever troops encounter an enemy force and prepare for battle, they must follow a clear order of deployment. The Right Yuhou unit leads first, followed by the Right Wing Army, then the Vanguard Army, next the Central Army, followed by the Rear Guard Army, then the Left Wing Army, and finally the Left Yuyhou unit. The Tiaodang units, special troops, and cavalry of each army must follow their respective main forces in order. Upon arriving at the battlefield, they should all be deployed in front of their respective Zhanfeng squad and garrison units, waiting for commands from the five-colored signal flags. If the Zhanfeng unit or other frontline squads fail to break through enemy lines, then the Tiaodang and special forces should immediately move forward from behind to engage. Whenever entering narrow valleys, dense forests, or crossing rivers through narrow paths and when setting up camp for battle within a radius of one hundred li, thorough reconnaissance and clearing must be conducted to ensure the area is secure. Otherwise, if troops have already advanced more than half their journey before realizing they are in danger and attempt to set up camp for battle at the last moment, hidden enemy forces may emerge suddenly, causing losses to our army. When withdrawing troops back to camp, the Left Yuhou unit should be sent in first, followed by the Left Wing Army, Rear Guard Army, Central Army, Vanguard Army, Right Wing Army, and finally the Right Yuhou.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸賊徒恃險固，阻山布陣，不得橫列，兵士分立，宜為豎陣。其陣法：弩手、弓手與戰鋒隊相閒引前，兩駐隊兩邊相翊。布列既定，諸軍即聽角聲，其角聲節度一準前。看黃旗向賊亞，聞鼓聲發，諸軍弩手、弓手及戰鋒隊，各令人捉馬，一時籠槍，大叫齊入。若弩手、弓手、戰鋒等隊引退，跳盪、奇兵隊一時齊入，戰鋒等隊排比迴面，還與奇兵同入。如見黃旗卻立不亞及聞金鉦聲，乃止，膊上架槍引還，各於舊處，準前聽角聲，卷幡、簇隊一準前。如便放散，即更聽一會角聲，依軍次發引。 |
| | If enemy forces rely on natural terrain for defense, block mountain passes, and deploy in a horizontal formation, they must not be allowed to spread out their troops. In such cases, our soldiers should adopt a vertical (column) formation instead. The formation method is as follows: crossbowmen and archers should be interspersed with the Zhanfeng units at the front, while two garrison squads should flank them on both sides for support. Once the deployment is complete, all units must follow the horn signals; the timing and commands of these signals should strictly adhere to previous instructions. When the yellow flag is raised toward the enemy and the drum sounds, all units' crossbowmen, archers, and Zhanfeng squads should each seize their horses, raise their lances at once, shout loudly, and charge forward together. If the crossbowmen, archers or Zhanfeng units retreat, then Tiaodang and special troop units should immediately charge in together. The retreating Zhanfeng forces should reorganize to face rearward and join with the special troops for a coordinated counterattack. If the yellow flag is lowered and not raised again, or if the sound of a gong or clapper is heard, then halt. Place your spear across your shoulder and withdraw in order to return to their original positions, following previous horn signals as before. Roll up banners and regroup according to previously established procedures. If the troops are to disperse temporarily, they should wait for another horn signal before proceeding in order of their units.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸方陣既成，逢賊鬥戰，或打頭，或打尾。打頭，其陣行行不前進，陣既不進，自然牢密；如其打尾，頭行不停，其陣中閒多有斷絕，須面別各定總管，都押句當，勿令斷絕。 |
| | Once all formations have been established and an encounter with the enemy occurs, troops may either attack from the front or strike at the rear. If attacking from the front (head), each rank of the formation should not advance forward. Since the formation does not move, it naturally becomes solid and tightly packed; If attacking from the rear (tail), the front ranks must not stop. In this case, there will be many gaps in the middle of the formation; therefore, each section should separately appoint an overall commander and a general supervisor to ensure that the formation remains continuous and does not break apart.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸軍將戰，每營跳盪隊、馬軍隊、奇兵隊、戰鋒隊、駐隊等，分析為五等，當軍等別各令一官押領。出戰之時，先用某等兵戰鬥，如更須兵，以次更取某等兵用盡。當營輜重隊不得輒用，亦各一官押領，使堅壘，各令知其部伍，不使紛雜。自餘節度，一依橫陣。 |
| | Before each unit engages in battle, the Tiaodang squad, cavalry squad, special forces, Zhanfeng squad, and garrison squad of every camp should be divided into five categories. For each category within a unit, an officer must be assigned to lead them. During battle, certain categories of troops should be deployed first for combat; if more forces are needed later, the next designated category is to be used in sequence until all are exhausted. The supply units of each camp must not be used without orders. Each should also have an officer in charge, tasked with reinforcing the defenses and ensuring that all soldiers know their assigned positions to prevent disorder and confusion. All other commands and procedures must follow those of the horizontal formation.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸每隊布立，第一立隊頭，居前引戰；第二立執旗一人以次立，左傔旗在左次立，右傔旗在右次立。其兵分作五行，傔旗後左右均立。第一行戰鋒七人次立，第二行戰鋒八人次立，第三行戰鋒九人次立，第四行戰鋒十人次立，第五行戰鋒十一人次立，並橫列鼎足，分布為隊。隊副一人撰兵後立，執陌刀，觀兵士不入者便斬。果毅領傔人，又居後立督戰，觀不入便斬。並須先知左肩右膊，行立依次。 |
| | Whenever each squad is deployed, the first rank should be led by a team leader who takes position at the front to lead the battle; The second rank should have one person holding a flag standing in order, with the left escort flag positioned to the left and the right escort flag to the right. Troops are divided into five ranks, with soldiers standing evenly on both sides behind the escort flags. The first rank consists of seven Zhanfeng soldiers standing in order; the second, eight; the third, nine; the fourth, ten; and the fifth, eleven. All are arranged side by side in a balanced formation to form the squad. A deputy squad leader should stand at the rear of the troops, holding a Ma Dao (a type of heavy sword), and immediately execute any soldier who fails to advance into battle. The Guoyi officer, accompanied by his attendants, should also stand at the rear to supervise the fighting and immediately execute anyone who does not advance into battle. All soldiers must be clearly aware of their left shoulders and right arms, standing in formation according to order.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸每隊，戰鋒五十人，重行在戰隊前，布陣立隊訖，聞鼓聲發，戰鋒隊即入，其兩戰隊亦排後即入。若戰隊等隊有人不同入，同隊人能斬其首者，賞物五十段。別隊見不入人，能斬其首者，準前賞物。唯駐隊人不得輒動。凡與敵鬥，其跳盪、奇兵、馬軍等隊，即須量抽人下馬當之。隊別量抽捉馬人，先定名字。若臨鬥時，捉馬人有前卻及應捉撩亂失次第，致失鞍馬者，斬。若其賊退，步趁不得過三十步，亦不得即乘馬趁。審知賊退，撩亂驚怖，然可騎馬逐北，仍與諸隊齊進。其折衝、果毅，當鬥之時，雖蹔下馬，賊徒敗退以後，即任騎馬檢校騰逐。 |
| | Each squad should have fifty Zhanfeng soldiers, arranged in double ranks at the front of the battle formation. After the formation is set and the drum sounds are heard, the Zhanfeng squad immediately charges forward, followed by the two flanking battle squads moving up from behind to join the attack. If any soldier in a battle squad fails to charge forward with his unit, and another member of the same squad beheads him, that person will receive a reward of fifty segments (units) of goods. If soldiers from another unit see someone who refuses to advance and behead him, they will also receive the same reward as previously stated. Only the garrison troops must not move without orders. Whenever engaging in battle with an enemy, a certain number of soldiers from the Tiaodang, special forces, and cavalry units must be selected to dismount and take part in the fighting. From each unit, a specific number of soldiers should be assigned as horse handlers, with their names recorded beforehand. If during battle the designated horse handlers retreat or become disorganized, causing confusion and resulting in lost saddles or horses, they shall be executed. If the enemy withdraws, infantry pursuit must not exceed thirty paces, and soldiers must also not immediately mount their horses to chase. Only after confirming that the enemy has retreated in panic and disorder may soldiers ride their horses to pursue, but they must still advance together with all other units. The Zhechong and Guoyi officers, even if they temporarily dismount during battle, may ride their horses after the enemy has been defeated to inspect the battlefield or pursue the retreating forces.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸軍弩手，隨多少布列。五十人為一隊，人持弩一具，箭五十隻，人各絡膊，將陌刀棒一具，各於本軍戰隊前雁行分立，調弩上牙，去賊一百五十步內戰，齊發弩箭；賊若來逼，相去二十步即停弩，持刀棒，從戰鋒等隊過前奮擊，違者斬。如其共賊相持守捉城邑，其弩手等，即依弩式，看旗發用。 |
| | The crossbowmen of each unit should be deployed according to their numbers. Fifty crossbowmen form one squad. Each soldier carries one crossbow and fifty arrows, wears a bracer on the arm, and is equipped with a Ma Dao staff (a heavy weapon). They should be arranged in cranes' formation at the front of their unit's battle ranks, adjust the crossbows to ready position, and when within 150 paces of the enemy, fire all crossbow arrows simultaneously. If the enemy advances to within twenty paces, stop using crossbows and switch to holding swords or staffs. Follow the Zhanfeng squad forward for a close-range attack; those who disobey will be executed. If the forces are engaged in defending a city or fortress against an enemy, crossbowmen should follow standard crossbow procedures and fire according to flag signals.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸隊頭共賊相殺，左右傔旗急須前進相救；若左右傔被賊纏繞，以次行人急須前進相救；其進救人又被賊纏繞，以次後行人準前急須進救。其前行人被賊殺，後行不救者，仰押官及隊副使便斬。但有隊被賊纏繞，比隊亦須速救，臨陣不救者，皆斬。 |
| | If the squad leaders are engaged in combat with the enemy, their left and right escort flags must immediately advance forward for rescue; If the left or right escorts are surrounded by the enemy, soldiers from adjacent ranks should quickly move forward to provide assistance. If those advancing to rescue are also caught in a struggle with the enemy, soldiers from the next ranks should follow the same procedure and immediately move forward for further assistance. If any soldier is killed by the enemy while in the front ranks, and those behind fail to come to his aid, the commanding officer and squad deputy must immediately execute them. If any unit is surrounded by the enemy, neighboring units must quickly come to their rescue; those who fail to do so on the battlefield will all be executed.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
凡將，須使兵士簡靜，處分有序，將百萬之眾，如領一人。每軍定一官知高聲，營別有虞候差主帥一人知高聲，營四面各差一人知高聲，隊別亦定一人知高聲。 |
| | A general must ensure that his soldiers remain calm and disciplined, with clear organization and command. Even when leading a hundred thousand troops, he should manage them as if they were one single individual. Each unit must appoint one officer in charge of loud commands. Each camp should have a Yuhou officer assigned by the commanding general to oversee loud commands, with one person each designated at the four sides of the camp for this role; likewise, each squad should also assign one individual responsible for issuing clear and audible orders.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
諸見賊聲高喧鬧者，仰押隊官及隊頭便斬。押隊官、隊頭不斬者，即斬押隊官及隊頭。諸軍將或在前，或在後，須傳聲喚隊及人者，仰押隊官自傳，兵士不得輒傳。 |
| | Any soldier who shouts loudly or causes commotion upon seeing the enemy should be immediately executed by their unit commander and squad leader. If the unit commander or squad leader fails to carry out the execution, they themselves shall be executed immediately. If a general or officer is either in the front or rear and needs to call for units or individuals, it should be done by the unit commander directly. Soldiers must not pass on such messages without orders.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
凡置營，左有草澤，右有流泉，背山險，向平易，通達樵採，牧飲相近。地又有八種不堪安營：山中之高，謂之天柱；澤中之高，謂之地柱；高中之下，謂之天獄；下中之下，謂之地獄；斥鹵多石，少草無水，謂之窮極；故邑破營，謂之虛耗；川谷衝口，柴草乾深，謂之天灶；穹崇傁形，四面坳瀉，謂之沃燋。皆急過勿留。亦不得飲死水。 |
| | Whenever setting up a camp, it should have grassy wetlands to the left and flowing springs to the right. The rear should be backed by mountainous terrain for natural defense, while the front faces flat and open ground. The location must also allow convenient access for gathering firewood, grazing livestock, and drawing water nearby. There are eight types of terrain unsuitable for setting up a camp: high ground in the mountains is called "tianzhu" (heavenly pillar); lando A high area within marshland or wetlands is referred to as "dizhu" (earth pillar); A low-lying area on a hill is called "tianyu" (heavenly prison); The lowest part of a valley or depression is referred to as "diyu" (earthly prison); A barren, saline area with many rocks, little grass and no water is called "qiongji" (extreme desolation); An old ruined town or abandoned campsite is referred to as "xuhao" (empty wasteland); A river valley entrance where dry, deep vegetation accumulates is called "tianzao" (heavenly stove); An elevated area with a concave shape and low-lying drainage on all four sides is called "wojiao" (fertile fire). All of these locations should be passed through quickly without lingering. One must also not drink stagnant or "dead" water.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
凡軍行營壘，先使腹心及鄉導前覘審知，各令候吏先行，定得營地；擘五軍分數，立四表候視，然後移營。又先使候騎前行，持五色旍，見溝坑揭黃，衢路揭白，水澗揭黑，林木揭青，野火揭赤，以鼓本數應之，仍須數相接。立旗鼓，令相聞見。若渡水踰山，深邃林藪，精騎驍勇搜索，數里無聲，四周絕跡。高山樹頂，令人遠視，精兵四向，要處防禦。然後分兵前後，以為鎮拓。乃令輜重老少，次步後馬，切在整肅，防敵至，人馬無聲，不失行列。險地狹徑，亦以部曲鱗次，或須環迴旋轉，以後為前，以左為右，行則魚貫，立則雁行。到前止處，遊騎精銳四向散列而立，各依本方下營。一人一步，隨師多少。咸表十二辰，豎六旍，長二丈八尺，審子午卯酉地，勿令邪僻。以朱雀旍豎午地，白獸旍豎酉地，玄武旍豎子地，青龍旍豎卯地，招搖旍豎中央。其樵採牧飲，不得出表外。 |
| | Whenever an army is to set up a camp, trusted officers and local guides should be sent ahead to scout and carefully inspect the area. Each unit must also send advance scouts or officials to proceed first and secure suitable camp locations; The forces of the five divisions should be divided accordingly, with four markers set up for observation. Only after this is done may the army move and establish a new camp. Additionally, advance scout riders should be sent forward carrying five-colored flags. Upon encountering ditches or pits, raise the yellow flag ; for clear roads, raise white; for streams and gullies, black; for forests and trees, green; and for wild fires, red. The number of drumbeats should correspond to these signals, ensuring continuous communication between units. Raise flags and drums so that they can be seen and heard clearly by all troops. If crossing rivers or climbing over mountains, entering deep forests and thickets, elite cavalry units should be dispatched to search the area. They must remain silent for several li and ensure that no traces of enemy presence are found in all directions. On high mountains, have people stationed at the treetops to observe from a distance; elite troops should be deployed in four directions and key locations must be defended. Only after this can forces be divided, with some advancing ahead and others following behind to serve as a vanguard and rear guard for protection and expansion of the position. Then, instruct supply wagons, the elderly, and children to follow behind on foot, with horses coming last. Strict order must be maintained at all times to prevent enemy attacks; both people and horses should remain silent and not break formation or ranks. In dangerous terrain and narrow paths, units should proceed in an orderly, overlapping formation. If necessary to turn around or maneuver, the rear can become the front and the left side the right; when moving forward, they must advance like fish swimming single file, and when stationary, form a cranes' wing pattern. Upon reaching the designated stopping point, elite scout cavalry should be deployed to stand in scattered positions facing all four directions, with each unit setting up camp according to its assigned location. Each soldier occupies one step of space; the total area required depends on the size of the army. Twelve directional markers should be set up to indicate the twelve earthly branches, with six flags raised. Each flag should measure two zhang and eight chi in length. Carefully determine the exact directions of zi (north), wu (south), mao (east), and you (west) to ensure that the camp is not skewed or improperly aligned. The Vermilion Bird flag should be placed in the southern (wu) direction, the White Tiger flag in the western (you) direction, the Black Tortoise flag in the northern (zi) direction, and the Azure Dragon flag in the eastern (mao) direction. The Zhaoyao flag should be raised at the center. Firewood gathering, foraging, grazing, and water drawing must not extend beyond the designated boundaries marked by these flags.
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| | 下營斥候... : |
一說，安營之法與圓陣相侔，每一大營有四十子營，營各四十幕為一部。其一子營皆空，其內八閒，開三徑，十二旗，十六鼓，左矛右戟，前楯後弩，旗鼓中央，大將之所。安營之法，其道略同，而附於此。 |
| | Another theory states that the method of setting up a camp is similar to forming a circular formation. Each large main camp consists of forty sub-camps, with each sub-camp containing forty tents as one unit. Each sub-camp should be empty on the inside, with eight intervals arranged within. Three paths are opened for access, twelve flags and sixteen drums are placed strategically; spears are stationed to the left, halberds to the right, shields in front, crossbows at the rear, while flags and drums occupy the center — this is where the general commands from. The method of setting up a camp follows similar principles in general, and these are appended here for reference.
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| | 先據要地... : |
戰國吳子曰：「凡行師越境，必審地形，則知主客之向背。地利若不悉知，往必敗矣。故軍有所至，先五十里內山川形勢，使軍士伺其伏兵，將必自行，視地之勢，因而圖之，知其險易也。」 |
| | The Warring States Wu Zi said: "Whenever an army crosses a border, it must carefully examine the terrain; only then will one know whether the host or guest force has the advantage." If one does not fully understand the advantages of the terrain, going forward will inevitably lead to defeat. Therefore, whenever the army arrives at a location, it should first investigate the mountains and rivers within fifty li. Soldiers should be sent to scout for hidden enemy forces; the general must personally go out to observe the terrain's features, then plan accordingly, in order to understand its dangers and ease."
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| | 先據要地... : |
戰國秦師伐韓，圍閼與。趙遣將趙奢救之，軍士許歷曰：「秦人不意趙師至此，其來氣盛，將軍必厚集其陣以待之。不然，必敗。」又曰：「先據北山者勝，後至者敗。」趙奢即發萬人趨之。秦兵後至，爭山不得上，趙奢縱兵擊之，大破秦軍。遂解閼與之圍。 |
| | During the Warring States period, the Qin army attacked the State of Han and besieged Eyu. The State of Zhao sent General Zhao She to rescue them. A soldier named Xu Li said, "The Qin forces did not expect the Zhao army to arrive here; they are coming with high morale. The general must concentrate his troops in a strong formation to await them." Otherwise, we will surely be defeated." He also said, "Whoever occupies the northern mountain first will win; whoever arrives later will lose." Zhao She immediately dispatched ten thousand men to rush there. The Qin forces arrived later and failed in their attempt to seize the mountain. Zhao She then launched an attack, completely defeating the Qin army. Thus, the siege of Eyu was lifted.
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| | 先據要地... : |
後漢初，諸將征隗囂，為囂所敗。光武令悉軍栒邑，未及至，隗囂乘勝使其將王元、行巡將二萬餘人下隴，因分遣巡取栒邑。漢將馮異即馳兵，欲先據之。諸將皆曰：「虜兵盛而新乘勝，不可與爭。宜止軍便地，徐思方略。」異曰：「虜方兵盛臨境，忸觇小利，遂欲深入。若得栒邑，三輔動搖，是吾憂也。夫『攻者不足，守者有餘』。今先據城，以逸待勞，非所以爭鋒也。」遂潛往閉城，偃旗鼓。行巡不知，馳赴之。異乘其不意，卒擊鼓建旗而出，巡軍驚亂奔走，追擊數十里，大破之。 |
| | In the early Later Han period, various generals campaigned against Wei Qiao but were defeated by him. Emperor Guangwu ordered all troops to gather at Xunyi, but before they could arrive, Wei Qiao, riding on his momentum of victory, sent his generals Wang Yuan and Xing Xun to lead more than twenty thousand men down from Long, and separately dispatched Xun to capture Xunyi. The Han general Feng Yi immediately rushed his troops forward in an attempt to occupy it first. All the other generals said, "The enemy forces are strong and have just tasted victory; we must not engage them in battle." We should halt our army at a convenient location and slowly devise strategies." Yi said, "The enemy is now strong and approaching our border, becoming accustomed to seeking small advantages. Therefore, Feng Yi wished to advance deeply into enemy territory. If they capture Xunyi, the Three Fu regions will become unstable; this is my concern." The saying goes: "Offensive forces are insufficient, while defensive forces have more than enough." Now that we occupy the city first and await them in ease while they come weary, this is not how one competes for victory." He then secretly went to take control of the city, closing it off and concealing his banners and drums. Xing Xun was unaware of this and hurried toward the city. Feng Yi took advantage of their unpreparedness, suddenly beating drums and raising flags to emerge. Xun's forces were thrown into panic and fled in disorder; Feng pursued them for dozens of li, completely defeating them.
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| | 先據要地... : |
後漢武都參狼羌為寇，殺長吏，馬援將四千餘人往擊之。羌在山上，援軍據便地，奪其水草，不與戰，羌遂窮困，悉降。 |
| | In the Later Han period, the Ranglang Qiang people from Wudu became bandits, killing local officials. Ma Yuan led more than four thousand men to attack them. The Qiang were on the mountains, and Ma Yuan's forces occupied a convenient location, seizing their water and forage. They did not engage in battle with them; as a result, the Qiang became desperate and exhausted, and all surrendered.
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蜀諸葛亮兵要云：「軍已近敵，羅落常平明以先發，絕軍前十里內，各按左右下道；亦十里之內，數里之外，五人為部，人持一白幡，登高外向，明看隱蔽之處。軍至，轉尋高而前。第一見賊，轉語後第二，第二詣主者，白之。凡候見賊百人以下，但舉幡指；百人以上，便舉幡大呼。主者遣疾馬往視察之。」 |
| | The Shu Zhuge Liang Bing Yao states: "When the army is near the enemy, the vanguard should always depart at dawn ahead of time. They must cut off all roads within ten li in front of the army and station forces on both sides accordingly; within ten li but beyond several li, divide into groups of five people each. Each person should carry a white flag and ascend to high ground facing outward, clearly observing hidden places." When the main army arrives, they should continue forward by seeking higher ground. If the first group spots the enemy, it must immediately inform the second group; the second group then reports to the commander and informs him. Whenever scouts spot fewer than one hundred enemy soldiers, they should simply raise their flags and point them out; if more than one hundred are spotted, they should immediately raise the flags and shout loudly. The commander then sends a fast horse to investigate."
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| | 先據要地... : |
諸葛亮出斜谷，是時魏將司馬宣王屯渭南。郭淮策亮必爭北原，若亮跨渭登原，連兵北山，隔絕隴道，搖盪民、夷，此非國之利也。宣王善之，淮遂屯北原。塹壘未成，蜀兵大至，淮逆擊走之。 |
| | Zhuge Liang advanced from Xiegou. At that time, the Wei general Sima Xuanwang was stationed in the southern part of Wei River. Guo Huai predicted that Zhuge Liang would certainly contest Beiyuan. If Zhuge Liang crossed the Wei River and ascended to Beiyuan, linking his forces with the northern mountains, he could cut off the Long Road and stir unrest among both Han civilians and Yi tribesmen; this would not be in the country's interest. Sima Xuanwang agreed with his assessment, so Guo Huai stationed his troops at Beiyuan. Before the trenches and fortifications were completed, a large Shu army arrived, but Guo Huai repelled them by attacking head-on and drove them away.
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魏將諸葛誕、胡遵等伐吳，攻東興，吳將諸葛恪率水軍拒之。及恪上岸，部將丁奉與唐咨、呂據、留贊等，俱從山西上。奉曰：「今諸軍行遲，若敵據便地，則難與爭鋒矣。」乃辟諸軍使下道，率麾下三千人逕進。時風便，奉舉帆二日至，遂據徐塘。天寒大雪，時魏諸將置酒高會，奉見其前部兵少，相謂曰：「取封侯爵賞，正在今日。」乃使兵解鎧著冑，持短兵。敵人從而笑焉，不為設備。奉縱兵斫之，大破敵前屯。會據等至，魏軍遂潰。 |
| | The Wei generals Zhuge Dan, Hu Zun, et al., attacked the Wu forces, launching an assault on Dongxing. The Wu general Zhuge Ke led a naval force to resist them. When Ke's forces landed, his subordinate general Ding Feng, along with Tang Zi, Lü Ju, Liu Zan, et al., all ascended from the western side of the mountain. Feng said, "Now that our troops are moving slowly, if the enemy occupies a favorable position first, it will be difficult for us to engage them in battle." He then ordered all other troops to move aside from the main road and led his own three thousand men forward directly. At that time, favorable winds allowed Feng to sail for two days straight, and he thus occupied Xutang. It was bitterly cold with heavy snowfall, and at that time the Wei generals were holding a grand banquet. Feng observed that their vanguard forces were few in number and said to his companions, "The opportunity to gain marquis titles and rewards is right here today." He then ordered his soldiers to remove their armor, put on helmets, and take up short weapons. The enemy laughed at them as they passed by, not making any preparations for defense. Feng launched an attack and completely defeated the enemy's forward garrison. When Lü Ju and others arrived, the Wei forces were thus routed.
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東晉末，宋武帝率師伐南燕慕容超。晉師度峴，慕容超懼，率卒四萬就其將段暉等於臨朐，謂其將公孫五樓曰：「宜進據川源，晉軍至而失水，亦不能戰矣。」臨朐有巨蔑水，去城四十里，五樓馳據之。龍驤將軍孟龍符領騎居前，奔往爭之，五樓乃退，因而大敗。 |
| | In the late Eastern Jin dynasty, Emperor Wu of Song led his army to attack Murong Chao of the Southern Yan state. The Jin forces crossed Xian Pass, and Murong Chao was frightened. He led four thousand troops to join his general Duan Hui et al. at Linqu. He said to his general Gongsun Wulou, "We should advance and occupy the river sources. When the Jin army arrives and loses access to water, they will not be able to fight." Linqu has a large stream called Jumie, forty li away from the city; Wulou hurried there and occupied it. The Longxiang General Meng Longfu led cavalry at the front, rushing to contest for it. Wulou then retreated and was thus heavily defeated.
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十六國後秦姚興與前秦苻登相持，登自六陌向廢橋，興乃自將精騎以迎登，使將尹緯領步卒，據廢橋以抗登。登因急攻緯，緯將出戰，興馳遣使謂緯曰：「兵法不戰而制人者，蓋謂此也。苻登窮寇，特宜持重，不可輕戰。」緯曰：「先帝登遐，人情擾懼，不因思奮之力梟殄逆豎，大事去矣。」遂與登戰，大破之，登眾渴死者十二三，其夜大潰。 |
| | In the Sixteen Kingdoms period, Hou Qin's Yao Xing and Qian Qin's Fu Deng were in a standoff. Deng advanced from Liu Ma toward Feiqiao, so Xing personally led his elite cavalry to meet Deng, sending his general Yin Wei to lead infantry forces and occupy Feiqiao to resist Deng. Deng then urgently attacked Wei. As Wei was about to lead his troops into battle, Xing hurriedly sent a messenger to tell Wei: "According to the art of war, controlling the enemy without fighting refers precisely to this situation. Fu Deng is an exhausted enemy; we should especially be cautious and must not engage in a reckless battle." Wei replied, "The late emperor has passed away, and people are in turmoil and fear. If we do not now use our strength to destroy the rebellious enemy, all will be lost." He then engaged Deng in battle and heavily defeated him. A third to a half of Deng's forces died from thirst, and that night the Jin army was completely routed.
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十六國夏赫連勃勃屯依力川，後秦姚興將王奚聚羌胡三千餘戶於敕奇堡，勃勃進攻之。奚驍悍有膂力，短兵接戰，勃勃之眾多為所傷。於是堰斷其水，堡人窘迫，執奚出降。 |
| | In the Sixteen Kingdoms, Xia's Helian Bobo stationed his forces at Yili Chuan. Later Qin's Yao Xing sent Wang Xi to gather more than three thousand Qiang and Hu households at Chiqi Pao; Bobo advanced to attack them. Xi was fierce, brave, and strong-armed. In close combat, many of Bobo's forces were wounded by him. They then dammed the water supply to cut it off; the people in the fortress became desperate and captured Xi, surrendering him.
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東魏將齊神武伐西魏，軍過蒲津，涉洛，至許原。西魏將周文帝軍至沙苑，齊神武聞周文至，引軍來會。詰朝，候騎告齊神武軍且至。周文部將李弼曰：「彼眾我寡，不可平地置陣。此東十里有渭曲，可先據以待之。」遂軍至渭曲，背水東西為陣。合戰，大破之。 |
| | The Dong Wei general Qi Shenwu attacked the Western Wei forces; his army crossed Pujin Pass, passed through Luo River, and arrived at Xuyuan. The Western Wei general Zhou Wendi's army reached Shayan. Qi Shenwu, upon hearing that Zhou Wendi had arrived, led his troops to meet him. The next morning, scouts reported that Qi Shenwu's army was about to arrive. Zhou Wendi's subordinate general Li Bi said, "Their forces outnumber ours; we cannot set up our formation on flat ground." Ten li to the east of here is Weiqu, which we can occupy first and use to await them." They then moved their army to Weiqu and set up a formation facing east-west with the water behind them. When they engaged in battle, they heavily defeated Qi Shenwu's forces.
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隋文帝初，突厥寇蘭州，隋將賀樓子幹率眾拒之，至可洛峐山，與賊相遇。賊眾甚盛。子幹阻川為營，賊軍不得水數日，人馬甚弊，縱擊，大破之。 |
| | In the early years of Emperor Wen's reign in the Sui dynasty, the Turkic tribes raided Lanzhou. The Sui general Helou Zigan led his forces to resist them and arrived at Keluobi Mountain, where they encountered the enemy. The enemy's forces were very strong. Zigan blocked the river to set up a camp, and after several days without water, the enemy forces became extremely exhausted. He then launched an attack and heavily defeated them.
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大唐衛公李靖兵法曰：「諸行軍下營，雖有泉澗而乏水處，差人監當，勿令濁亂并有踐踏。其放牧草亦然。」 |
| | The Da Tang Wei Gong Li Jing Bing Fa states: "When setting up a camp during military campaigns, even if there are springs and streams but the water is scarce, assign people to oversee it; do not allow the water to become muddy or be trampled upon. The same applies to grazing forage."
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