Warrior Wisdom. Kazumi Tabata

marching, search the area carefully to ensure that no enemy is lurking. Do not approach such terrain if discovered in advance. Conversely, attempt to drive your adversaries into such terrain. It is important to give a sense of security to your soldiers to boost their morale.

      Anticipating Movements of the Enemy

      Be cautious if enemy forces remain unusually silent as you approach them. They may be plotting against you. You should assume that they are enjoying natural advantages or some other factors favorable to them.

      If enemy troops stationed at a distance are being provocative without physically approaching you, they are trying to tempt you into action.

      If opposition forces leave a geographically favorable location and position themselves on flatland, you should assume that the new location gives them some kind of advantage.

      Swinging of tree branches is a sign that enemy forces have made inroads into your territory.

      Traps laid in a tussock indicate that your adversaries are trying to contain advancement of your troops.

      When birds suddenly fly away, it is a sign that soldiers are lying in ambush. When beasts dash off in surprise, it is a sign that there are commando units. When there are clouds of dust high in the air, it is a sign that enemy tanks are invading. When there are clouds of dust hovering low, it is a sign that infantry units are approaching. When there are narrow columns of dust in the air, it is a sign that enemy troops are procuring firewood. When there are columns of dust moving about in the air, it is a sign that opposition troops are getting ready to camp out.

      Even seemingly insignificant signs should not be overlooked in battle. Identify the cause and analyze the situation of the enemy.

      Diplomatic Negotiations

      When your adversaries speak deferentially, it is a sign that they are readying themselves for invasion while gradually building up strong defense.

      When your adversaries speak aggressively and display their intention to invade, it is a sign that they are preparing to retreat.

      When your adversaries seek reconciliation even though they are still strong, it is a sign that they are scheming against you.

      During diplomatic negotiations, calmly see through other people’s intentions and deal with them resolutely.

      Evaluating the Internal Affairs of the Enemy