yao: 2月 2026

2026年2月2日星期一

🤩 Story 1: Cao Cao Deceives His Uncle and Father

When Cao Cao was young, he loved hunting and dancing; he was cunning and resourceful, and adept at handling life's challenges. Cao Cao's uncle, seeing him constantly wandering and neglecting his duties, became angry and told Cao Song. Cao Song, upon learning this, scolded Cao Cao. Not wanting to be scolded, Cao Cao devised a plan: seeing his uncle approaching from afar, he pretended to faint, acting as if he had suffered a stroke. His uncle, frightened, told Cao Song that Cao Cao had fainted. Cao Song rushed to check on him, only to find Cao Cao was perfectly fine. From then on, his father, Cao Song, only trusted Cao Cao and not his uncle. Because of this, Cao Cao could act recklessly.

1. Why was Cao Cao's uncle not trusted?

2. Why was Cao Song kept in the dark?

3. Why was there confusion between Cao Cao's uncle and Cao Song?

4. Why couldn't Cao Song see through the deception? 5. If you encountered Cao Cao in the workplace, and your position was similar to Cao Cao's uncle, what would you do?

6. If you encountered Cao Cao in the workplace, and your position was similar to Cao Song, what would you do?

7. If you encountered Cao Cao in the workplace, and your position was similar to a family elder, what would you do?

8. If you encountered Cao Cao in the workplace, and your position was similar to a neighbor, what would you do?

1. Why was Cao Cao's uncle not trusted?

Because he was schemed against by Cao Cao, because Cao Cao lied, because Cao Cao lied to Cao Cao's father, saying that Cao Cao had fainted. Because Cao Cao faked a stroke.

Because it was his uncle and Cao Song who told him Cao Cao had a stroke.

Because Cao Cao faked a stroke in front of his father, but was fine, but his uncle told his father that he had a stroke.

Cao Cao's father felt that Cao Cao's uncle was lying. Cao Cao hadn't fainted at all. Cao Song thought his uncle was lying to him.

Because Cao Cao's father, Cao Song, felt that he was lying. Cao Song felt deceived by Cao Cao's uncle. Cao's father felt cheated.

Because he spread the false news that Cao Cao had suffered a stroke, Cao Song mistakenly believed that Cao Cao's uncle was lying.

Because what he said was different from the actual situation.

The reality was different for Cao Cao's uncle and Cao Song.

1. Because he has fallen into Cao Cao's trick.

2. Why was Cao Song kept in the dark?

Because Cao Song was nervous and didn't have time to think too much.

Because the scene he saw was deliberately arranged for him by Cao Cao. He didn't know he was being deceived. Because he supported his son.

No one told him the truth.

Cao Cao didn't tell the truth: he was faking it. Cao Song didn't investigate the truth.

Because Cao Cao was two-faced. Because Cao Cao was cunning and resourceful.

Because Cao Song didn't know Cao Cao was faking it, Cao Song didn't know the details, Cao Song didn't carefully verify: Cao Cao's situation differed from Cao Cao's uncle's description, Cao Song didn't see reality, Cao Song didn't understand the overall situation, Cao Song didn't trust his uncle, Cao Song didn't care because he trusted his son, he was deceived by Cao Cao, didn't observe carefully, because he was deceived by Cao Cao, Cao Cao was faking it, because he personally witnessed Cao Cao's stroke.

Because Cao Cao doesn't want to let Cao Song know.

3. Why was there confusion between Cao Cao's uncle and Cao Song?

 Remote cause: Because Cao Cao was constantly wandering and neglecting his duties.

 Proximal Cause: Because the two saw different things; because Cao Cao feigned fainting; Cao Cao deceived them.

Because Cao Song saw the scene Cao Cao deliberately arranged for him, he mistakenly believed Cao Cao's uncle was untrustworthy. Cao Cao's condition differed from his uncle's description; both saw different things. Because Cao Cao faked a stroke. Cao Song didn't trust Cao Cao's uncle; both were misunderstood by the other. Because Cao Cao faked a stroke, both Cao Song and his uncle were very worried. Because Cao Cao got up when his father arrived.

 Key: Cao Cao's uncle and Cao Song were manipulated by Cao Cao, fell into his trap, and were deceived; the situation was urgent; and neither of them confirmed the truth with each other.

 Distant Association: Because Cao Cao wanted to become king.

Because he thought Cao Cao had feinted.

4. Why couldn't Cao Song see through this deception? Because he didn't realize that the time, place, and situation were all orchestrated by Cao Cao.

Because he didn't know the truth. He didn't know the details. Cao Cao's situation differed from what Cao Cao's uncle described.

Because Cao Cao was his son, he loved him too much and trusted him too much. Because he trusted his son, he felt that what Cao Cao said was true, and without verifying the truth, he was deceived. Therefore, he didn't trust his uncle. Because Cao Cao was two-faced, Cao Song didn't know the full story; he only knew that Cao Cao had suffered a stroke, without verifying either side's claims. He didn't ask Cao Cao's uncle.

This is truly unwise! But, what can an outsider do when you love someone so deeply?

5. If you encountered Cao Cao in the workplace, and your role was similar to Cao Cao's uncle, what would you do? Arrange for double confirmation: confirm once, then confirm a second time.

If he's your boss, fire him.

Alternatively: ignore him and stay as far away from him as possible. If he runs a company, leave the company; if he runs a country, leave the country.

If there are laws and a judicial system, find evidence, discover evidence, and present evidence. Clear your name.

If the law is ineffective, don't provoke him.

If it works: explain; if it doesn't: give up the struggle.

If it works: explain to Cao Cao, or subtly remind him; then stay away from him; if it doesn't work: give up the struggle.

If it has nothing to do with you, let him be. Ignore him, turn a blind eye. Ignore him: afraid of causing trouble.

Want to make a big splash! Then: be like him.

I will check the Evidence

6. If you encountered Cao Cao in the workplace, and your position was similar to Cao Song's, what would you do?

Create a different scenario to test Cao Cao from the other side.

If you were his superior, fire him. Alternatively, tell Cao Cao where he went wrong.

If there were laws or a judicial system, find evidence, investigate the truth by questioning relevant personnel, actively persuade them, understand the situation, make a judgment, ask about the events, understand the process, be serious, don't blindly trust others, find the truth, and focus on cultivating relationships.

If that doesn't work, resign, ignore him, don't interfere, stay away from him.

I will prove that I am clean.

7. If you encountered Cao Cao in the workplace, and your position was similar to a family elder, what would you do?

First, carefully inquire; if you get stuck, use Cao Cao's cherished interests to induce him to reveal his true intentions.

If there's still hope, tell him not to do it. First, judge right and wrong.

If there's no hope: ignore him, don't interfere, don't interfere.

Want to make a big splash! Ask him to be a spy.

I will I'd really like to talk sense into them.

8. If you encountered Cao Cao in the workplace, and your position was similar to that of a neighbor, what would you do?

If Cao Cao's power is small, it's none of my business; if Cao Cao's power is large, I would devise a plan to lure him with benefits, causing him to reveal his true colors, and then have Cao Cao's uncle and Cao Song present so they could witness the truth. I would then tell Cao Song the truth.

If there is still hope: I would remind him, speak up for his uncle, and call for help. I would act as a good person.

If there is no hope: I would fire him, stay away from him, stand by, ignore him, avoid him as much as possible, and not bother with him for fear of causing trouble; I would stay at home and not associate with such a person anymore.

I will really check different points of view.

🗡️ Story 2 : Liu Bei Chooses a Battle Location

Liu Bei + Guan Yu + Zhang Fei, fighting the bandit army:

Upon seeing Cheng Yuanzhi killed, the bandits scattered in terror. Liu Bei quickly led his troops in pursuit, and many bandits surrendered, resulting in a great victory. Liu Yan personally came out to welcome them and reward the soldiers.

The next day, they received an urgent letter from Gong Jing, the governor of Qingzhou, saying that the Yellow Turban rebels had besieged the city and were about to fall, requesting reinforcements. After discussing with Liu Bei, Liu Yan said, "I am willing to go to the rescue." Therefore, Liu Yan dispatched Zou Jing with 5,000 soldiers to Qingzhou along with Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei.

Upon seeing the reinforcements arrive, the Yellow Turban rebels divided their forces to meet the enemy. Liu Bei's forces were outnumbered and unable to withstand the enemy, so they had to retreat to a camp 30 li away. Liu Bei told Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, "The enemy outnumbers us; we must use a surprise attack to win." He arranged for Guan Yu to lead 1,000 soldiers to hide on the left side of the mountain, and Zhang Fei to lead 1,000 soldiers to hide on the right side. They would use the sound of a gong as a signal to attack together. Guan Yu led 1,000 men to hide in the left mountain, and Zhang Fei led 1,000 men to hide in the right mountain. Upon hearing the gong, they were to rush out to help.

The next day, Liu Bei and Zou Jing led their troops forward with shouts. The enemy army met them, and Liu Bei feigned defeat and retreated. The enemy army pursued them. When they reached the valley, Liu Bei's army suddenly sounded the gong, and the ambushers on both sides attacked simultaneously. Liu Bei also led his troops back to counterattack.

Under the three-pronged attack, the enemy army was thrown into chaos and retreated in disarray. Liu Bei pursued them all the way to the walls of Qingzhou City, where Prefect Gong Jing also led a contingent of civilians to reinforce them. The Yellow Turban Rebellion was utterly defeated, suffering countless casualties, and the crisis in Qingzhou was thus resolved.

1. Why did Liu Bei succeed? (30 points)

2. Why did the Yellow Turban Rebellion fail? (30 points)

3. When investing in stocks, who would you consult? (40 points)

1. Why did Liu Bei succeed?

Because he designed a formation and terrain that gave him an advantage while putting the enemy at a disadvantage. He could then use his advantageous methods to launch a decisive attack. (Refer to the chapter on waiting for the enemy to tire themselves out in this book.) The Yellow Turban Rebellion's formation was both divided and surrounded, making it impossible for them to control the battlefield, thus plunging them into chaos.

Because Liu Bei acted unexpectedly; because he had strategy; because he cooperated with many others (Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei; Liu Yan, Gong Jing); because Liu Bei understood how to use strategy; because he planned; because he utilized tactics; because his strategy was successful; because he applied strategy well; because he was intelligent; because he used cunning; because he was diligent; because he had tactics; because he applied strategy well; because he had plans; because his tactics were excellent; because his strategies were used appropriately.

2. Why did the Yellow Turban Rebellion fail?

Because they lacked vigilance, and therefore were unprepared. Because they were too arrogant.

On the battlefield, they failed to send out scouts, experienced generals, or strategists to survey the surrounding terrain and terrain. When Liu Bei attacked and they failed, the Yellow Turban army acted impulsively. They didn't consider whether their opponent's defeat was genuine, feigned, or deceptive. They were unprepared.

Because of: excessive arrogance, they were tricked.

Because of: recklessness, they fell into Liu Bei's ambush.

Being tricked, lacking strategy, preparedness, and awareness of the scheme led to: a major collapse.

3. When investing in stocks, who would you consult? (40 points)

Judging solely from the reaction to this article, if it's like: a party star named Zhuge Liang, who died at Wuzhang Plains, his soul travels to the modern era and lives again; and uses his wisdom to help a new lord transform from an ordinary entertainer into a top-tier entertainer. If you were in modern times and could appoint a strategist to travel through time, and you needed someone to help you invest in stocks, who would you choose as your advisor?

(Hint: Requires flexibility and timing.) Who should you choose? Liu Bei? Guan Yu? Zhang Fei? Liu Yan? Gong Jing?

For profit-taking, choose: Gong Jing; for finding entry points, choose: Liu Bei. For obediently following instructions and working diligently, choose: Guan Yu and Zhang Fei.

Liu Bei. He is very clever.

Liu Yan discusses with Xuande. Xuande says, "I am willing to go to their aid."

Gong Jing. He knows how to seize opportunities.

Prefect Gong Jing also leads militia out of the city to assist in the battle. The rebels are utterly defeated, suffering heavy casualties, thus lifting the siege of Qingzhou.

Guan Yu and Zhang Fei.

Obey instructions and work diligently. Guan Yu leads 1,000 troops to ambush on the left side of the mountain, and Zhang Fei leads 1,000 troops to ambush on the right side of the mountain, using gongs as a signal to launch a coordinated attack.

🔥 Story 3 : Huangfu Song and Zhu Jun Burn the Army

🔥 Story 3 : Huangfu Song and Zhu Jun Burn the Yellow Turban Army

At that time, Zhang Jiao had 150,000 troops (the Yellow Turban Army), while Lu Zhi had 50,000 soldiers. They were locked in a stalemate at Guangzong (a place name), with no clear victor. Lu Zhi analyzed the situation for Liu Bei, saying, "I am besieging the rebel army here. The Yellow Turban rebels' brothers, Zhang Liang and Zhang Bao, are stationed in Yingchuan (a place name), confronting Huangfu Song and Zhu Jun. You can lead your troops, and I will send an additional 1,000 official soldiers to assist you. Go to Yingchuan (a place name) to gather intelligence and arrange a date to encircle and capture them." Liu Bei accepted the order and led his army on a night march, heading towards Yingchuan under the starry sky. At that time, generals Huangfu Song and Zhu Jun led their troops to resist the Yellow Turban rebels' offensive. The Yellow Turbans, facing setbacks, retreated to Changshe (a place name), using the grass as makeshift tents and camps. Huangfu Song and Zhu Jun devised a plan: "Since the Yellow Turbans are using the grass for tents and camps, we should attack them with fire." Therefore, they ordered their soldiers to tie bundles of grass to each other and secretly ambush them. That night, a strong wind suddenly arose. After midnight, they all set fire to the camp. Huangfu Song and Zhu Jun each led their soldiers to attack the Yellow Turban camp. Flames filled the sky, and the Yellow Turbans panicked. Their horses were not saddled, and their men were not dressed in armor. They scattered and fled. The fighting continued until dawn. Zhang Liang and Zhang Bao led their defeated and remaining troops in a desperate escape. At this time, Liu Bei, along with Guan Yu and Zhang Fei, had just arrived in Yingchuan. Hearing the sounds of battle in the distance and seeing the firelight illuminating the sky, he quickly led his troops to the scene. However, the bandits had already been scattered and fled.

1. Why did the Yellow Turban Army suffer such a complete defeat? (30 points)

2. How could the Yellow Turban Army have avoided such a defeat? (30 points)

3. What kind of advisors did the Yellow Turban Army need most? (40 points)

Attack guidance, defense guidance, guidance on rapid troop equipment, guidance on temporary encampment locations

1. Why did the Yellow Turban rebels suffer such a complete defeat?

Because: They were attacked by fire.

They were unprepared, unprepared for a possible fire attack.

They were caught off guard by the fire attack; they were ambushed; the fire attack was sudden.

They did not make proper defenses, lacked vigilance, and had no time to react.

They saw the fire was very large and high, and their mood was: very frightened.

They also lacked good equipment; their equipment was incomplete. Their tents, campsites, and tents were all made of straw.

Since their tents, campsites, and tents were all made of straw... They (the Yellow Turban soldiers) didn't build firebreaks, didn't appoint guards,

lacked a night watch schedule, or a rotation of sentries,

and didn't have time to equip themselves with saddles or wear helmets and leather armor;

they also lacked: designated patrol personnel, didn't monitor wind direction,

they didn't use other materials to make tents, and didn't separate the tents.

When the fire broke out, of course, none of them could escape.

The TSMC Kumamoto plant in Japan; the TSMC Arizona plant in the United States. Did they have:

dungeons?

firebreaks?

guards?

designed night watch schedules?

provided themselves with saddles (driver's licenses, engineering vehicle operating licenses)?

they didn't have time to wear helmets and leather armor (dustproof clothing and sterile suits)?

designated patrol personnel?

monitored wind direction (real wind direction, online wind direction, physical wind direction, combined wind direction) (public opinion)?

used other materials to make tents?

they didn't separate the tents? (Factory Building Material)

2. How could the Yellow Turban Army avoid such a defeat?

They needed to confirm the surrounding environment, avoid mistakes, and prepare sentries.

They needed to conduct thorough training. They needed to actively seek information.

They needed to be vigilant, send sentries, pay close attention, be cautious, maintain alertness, and be constantly on guard.

They needed to be more alert.

They needed to avoid setting up camp, tents, or encampments on grass. (Factory Building Material)

They needed to have sentries on guard every night to maintain defense.

They needed to avoid using straw for tents. Campsites should be well-defended and located in good places.

They needed to establish good defenses, manage the area in zones, and establish clear boundaries between zones. (Factory Building Material)

They needed to dig and construct firebreaks. (Factory Building Material)

They needed to set up guard posts around the camp, designate night watch schedules, arrange rotating sentries, and assign patrol personnel.

They needed to train soldiers and collect resources.

They needed a strategist who could observe wind direction to prevent the wind from amplifying the fire.

(Public Opinion) (True Trends, Online Trends, Real-World Trends, Overall Trends)

Be fully prepared. Don't panic when things happen.

3. What kind of advisors did the Yellow Turban Army need most?

Attack guidance, defense guidance, guidance on rapidly equipping troops, guidance on temporary encampments.

They probably needed most: guidance on temporary encampments. There should be no grass, and there should be firebreaks.

Their tents, campsites, and tents were all made of grass. Since their tents, campsites, and tents were all made of grass, they (the Yellow Turban soldiers) didn't build firebreaks, didn't secure guards, lacked a night watch schedule, didn't arrange rotating sentries, didn't designate patrol personnel, didn't check wind direction, didn't use other materials to make tents, and didn't separate the tents. When a fire broke out, of course, they couldn't escape.

(Factory Building Materials)

They also needed: guidance on rapidly equipping troops, temporary troop leadership, guidance on temporary encampments, attack guidance, defense guidance, and defensive guidance.

🔥 Story 4 : Hua Xiong and Li Su Burn Sun Jian

Hua Xiong's deputy, Hu Zhen, led 5,000 soldiers out of the pass to meet the enemy. Cheng Pu, riding a horse and wielding a spear, charged directly at Hu Zhen. After a short exchange, Cheng Pu pierced Hu Zhen's throat with his spear, killing him instantly. Sun Jian seized the opportunity and led his troops all the way to the city gate, but arrows and stones rained down from the walls, forcing Sun Jian to retreat to Liangdong to encamp. He sent messengers to Yuan Shao to report the victory and also urged Yuan Shu to provide supplies.

Someone said to Yuan Shu, "Sun Jian is the tiger of Jiangdong! If he takes Luoyang and kills Dong Zhuo, you've driven away a wolf but raised a tiger. If you don't give him supplies now, his army will naturally disintegrate." Upon hearing this, Yuan Shu stopped providing supplies. Sun Jian's army ran out of food and began to fall into disarray. Spies reported this to Hua Xiong. Li Su advised Hua Xiong, "Tonight I'll lead a detachment along a side path to raid Sun Jian's rear camp. You can then attack from the front and capture Sun Jian."

Hua Xiong (a subordinate of Dong Zhuo) followed this advice, ordering his soldiers to eat their fill and then march out of the pass under cover of night. That night, the moon was bright and the wind was clear. When Hua Xiong's army arrived at Sun Jian's camp, it was already midnight. They sounded the war drums, and the sound was deafening as they advanced.

1. Why did Sun Jian suffer a defeat and find himself at a disadvantage?

2. If Sun Jian could go back to the previous day, what else could he do?

[Like in the movie: Frontier of Tomorrow. Tom Cruise, after being tainted by the blue monster's blood,

could go back to the previous day even after death and start over.]

3. What kind of advice did Sun Jian's army need?

(A) Troops must put on their armor before resting.

(B) Troops must prepare their horses before resting.

(D) Troops must have night patrols.

1. Sun Jian suffered a defeat and was at a disadvantage. Why?

Because Sun Jian panicked, the bows were of poor quality, and later they broke.

Sun Jian was careless; he did not anticipate the possibility of a counterattack and was unprepared.

Because he didn't have enough troops, and his defenses were inadequate.

He was ambushed by Hua Xiong in the middle of the night. He hadn't arranged sentry posts outside the camp, nor assigned scouts to monitor the enemy's camp.

Li Xiao set fire to the camp too suddenly; Sun Jian's army had no sentries on duty. When they encountered the fire, they scattered in panic.

2. If Sun Jian could go back to the previous day, what else could he do?

[Like the movie: Tomorrow's Frontier] Tom Cruise, after getting his hands on the blue monster's blood,

could go back to the previous day even after dying, and start over.

He has intelligence.

Strategist: Planning; Combatist: Combat; Hermit: Leaving the chaotic world.

 Strategist: Defend the base, retreat the troops to the stronghold first, retreat to the base first, reorganize at a nearby stronghold, retrieve my equipment from the cave (original version, Meng Huo's version), organize military supplies.

 Combatist: Sentinels, send out sentries, prepare more sentries, multiple sentries, leave troops for night patrols, have people guard outside. Be more vigilant.

Make better bows and arrows, improve their quality, and keep the troops calm. Prepare archers, when the enemy comes: fire arrows. Send more men.

There needs to be reinforcements and a personal guard. Organize the guard, assign tasks first: prepare supplies, withdraw troops a short distance, rehearse layered resistance strategies for generals, deputy generals, and personal guards, arrange sentry posts outside the camp, monitor scouts in the enemy camp, design your own camp base for zoned management, and conversely, divide your own camp base into real and fake sections, set traps to surround the enemy.

 Reclusive Faction: Leave first, resign, disband the army, change names, go to sea to hide, go overseas to live in seclusion, go deep into the mountains and become a Taoist priest or monk.

3. What kind of advice does Sun Jian's army need?

[Short-term is acceptable, long-term is not; one or two days is acceptable, more than ten days is not]

(A) Before the troops rest, they should put on their armor—so that they can react immediately if suddenly attacked.

(B) Before the troops rest, the horses should be prepared—the stables should be manned in shifts; there should be horses at all times.

[This isn't the key to victory, though it's a good idea.]

[Correct]

(D) The army should have night patrol units—in shifts, three to four shifts. Keep watch. When the enemy launches a night attack, quickly sound the horn.

By the way, a question for the reader: If the 10 people aro

🏃 Story 5 : Sun Jian's Escape Plan

Hua Xiong (a subordinate of Dong Zhuo) followed this advice, ordering his soldiers to eat their fill and then march out of the pass at night. That night, the moon was bright and the wind was clear. When Hua Xiong's army arrived at Sun Jian's camp, it was already midnight. They sounded the war drums, and the sound was deafening as they advanced. Sun Jian hurriedly donned his armor and mounted his horse, only to encounter Hua Xiong. The two horses galloped, clashing, and the two fierce generals fought for no more than a few rounds before Li Su's army (Dong Zhuo's subordinate) arrived and ordered his soldiers to set fire to the camp. Sun Jian's camp was thrown into chaos by the surprise attack, and only Zu Mao accompanied him as they broke through the encirclement. Hua Xiong led his troops in hot pursuit. Sun Jian fired two arrows, both of which Hua Xiong dodged. The third arrow, however, broke the bowstring when he drew it too hard, forcing him to abandon it and flee on horseback.

Zu Mao said, "My lord, the red turban you wear is too conspicuous; the enemy will easily recognize you. Let me wear it!" Sun Jian then took off his turban, exchanged helmets with Zu Mao, and the two fled in different directions. Hua Xiong, seeing the red turban, led his troops to pursue only Zu Mao's group, allowing Sun Jian to escape via a side path. Zu Mao, pursued relentlessly, hung the red turban on a charred but not yet burned pillar and hid in the woods. Hua Xiong's soldiers, seeing the red turban from afar, mistook it for Sun Jian and surrounded him, afraid to approach. They shot arrows at it before realizing they had been tricked. As they removed the turban, Zu Mao suddenly emerged from the woods, wielding two swords and charging at Hua Xiong. Hua Xiong roared and with a backhand strike, cut Zu Mao off his horse.

The fighting continued until dawn, when Hua Xiong finally led his troops back to the pass.

Cheng Pu, Huang Gai, Han Dang, and others later found Sun Jian, reorganized their troops, and re-established their camp.

1. Why was Sun Jian able to escape successfully?

Because he had help; Sun Jian had subordinates and loyal brothers.

Because Zu Mao used a stratagem to lure the enemy away. He used a feint to escape, like a cicada shedding its shell.

Because Zu Mao was quick-witted and resourceful.

Because Zu Mao hung his robes and armor on a tree,

making the enemy believe that the robes and armor belonged to Sun Jian.

His headdress was very distinctive. In a crowd of thousands or tens of thousands, he was quite conspicuous.

Therefore, when he gave the helmet decorations to others,

in the midst of battle, those in the opposing camp who didn't recognize him would mistake him for someone else.

Because he used a good plan and had a good general. A good vice-general.

2. Cruel Question <If you feel uncomfortable, don't ask, don't answer>

Assume TSMC's Kumamoto plant in Japan; TSMC's Arizona plant in the United States.

In this scenario, who could be Sun Jian's ancestor?

💥 Story 6 : Yuan Shu's Letter

Yuan Shu, while in Nanyang, heard that Yuan Shao had just conquered Ji Province, so he sent someone to ask Yuan Shao for a thousand horses. Yuan Shao refused, which angered Yuan Shu, and the relationship between the two brothers soured from then on.

Yuan Shu then sent someone to Jing Province to borrow 200,000 shi (a unit of volume) of grain from Liu Biao, but Liu Biao also refused. Yuan Shu harbored resentment and secretly sent a letter to Sun Jian, hoping he would attack Liu Biao.

The letter essentially read:

"Liu Biao's previous interception of your return journey was actually Yuan Shao's idea. Now Yuan Shao is secretly conspiring with Liu Biao to attack your Jiangdong. You'd better send troops to attack Liu Biao quickly. I will deal with Yuan Shao for you; you can avenge both enemies. You seize Jingzhou, I'll seize Jizhou—don't miss this opportunity!"

Upon receiving the letter, Sun Jian angrily said, "That despicable Liu Biao! He blocked my return home before, and now is the perfect time for revenge! When else should we fight?"

He then summoned Cheng Pu, Huang Gai, Han Dang, and others to discuss the matter.

Cheng Pu said, "Yuan Shu is a cunning man; we can't completely trust him." Sun Jian said, "I wanted revenge anyway; I'm not going to fight because of him!"

So he sent Huang Gai to the riverbank to prepare warships, loading them with weapons and provisions. Larger ships were also loaded with warhorses. Once everything was arranged, they prepared to set out.

Spies on the river reported the news to Liu Biao, who was greatly alarmed and hurriedly summoned his civil and military officials to discuss countermeasures.

Kuai Liang said, "There's no need to worry too much. We can send Huang Zu with the Jiangxia soldiers to lead the vanguard, while you, my lord, lead the armies of Jingzhou and Xiangyang to provide support. Sun Jian will be crossing the river and lakes to come; he won't be able to exert any force on the water." Liu Biao adopted his suggestion, ordered Huang Zu to prepare defenses, and then led his army out himself.

1. Was Sun Jian's action rational? What factors influenced him?

2. Was Yuan Shu's act of sending the letter clever? If so, how?

3. If Yuan Shu's act of sending the letter wasn't clever, why was it effective?

4. If Yuan Shu's act of sending the letter was clever, why did he fail in the struggle for power?

1. Was Sun Jian's action rational? What factors influenced him?

Sun Jian's action was not rational. He was provoked by Yuan Shu's letter.

The letter stirred his desire for revenge; he was angered.

Sun Jian did not rationally assess the gains and losses and related risks of military action.

Furthermore, Sun Jian didn't know the truth of the matter.

His actions were extremely irrational, provoked by Yuan Shu's letter.

Even if Sun Jian's actions were staged,

the trigger for the incident,

it cannot be simply stated as "I received a letter" or "I received a letter that angered me."

Because that would make one seem like someone else's puppet.

A more plausible reason is needed.

2. Was Yuan Shu's act of sending the letter clever? What made it clever?

Yuan Shu's act of sending the letter was: using someone else to do his dirty work.

Using: Sun Jian as a tool to kill Liu Biao.

A mediocre move, not particularly clever.

However, in chaotic times, any move that works is fine.

It will meet the needs of a hegemon: letting other powerful rivals fight each other, so that the hegemon can:

The snipe and the clam fight, the fisherman benefits. The mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind.

The snipe and the clam fight, the fisherman benefits: The snipe wants to eat the meat inside the clam's shell, but the clam uses its shell to clamp the snipe's beak, preventing it from succeeding. A stalemate, where neither side is willing to yield, leads to a lose-lose situation, allowing a third party to capture both and reap all the benefits. (From: *The Strategies of Yan*, Book II of the Warring States Period). This saying typically illustrates that when two parties are locked in a stalemate, a hidden third party may benefit. Both parties involved should be wary.

"The mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind." This saying describes a mantis focused on catching a cicada, unaware that a bird (oriole) is lurking behind it, ready to peck at it. (From: *The Mountain Trees*, Chapter of Zhuangzi). This saying typically illustrates short-sightedness and lack of foresight, focusing only on immediate gains while ignoring hidden dangers. Alternatively, it can be interpreted as a chain reaction, or a situation where A, B, and C are involved. B wants A but is too focused to notice C, who might seize the opportunity to devour A while B is distracted.

Don't let strange letters or messages incite non-existent hatred, or cause you to change your original development plans, goals, or well-organized processes. This educational process teaches you to have your own judgment and to guide your passions with reason.

Another interpretation is that Yuan Shu's act of sending the letter was a case of "using someone else's knife to kill someone else." He used Sun Jian as a tool to kill Liu Biao.

This is considered clever. He survived, so how could it not be clever? Even if it was foolish, perhaps it was a case of "fools have their luck."

3. If Yuan Shu's act of sending the letter wasn't clever, why was it effective?

Sun Jian was sown discord by Yuan Shu's letter.

This letter from Yuan Shu caused Sun Jian and Liu Biao to become hostile to each other.

This indicates that Sun Jian was easily manipulated.

The Romance of the Three Kingdoms portrays Sun Jian as easily provoked,

unable to set aside personal grudges and consider the gains and losses of the entire camp.

As the leader of a group, one must prioritize the overall situation and consider the group's gains and losses as one's own; one must set aside personal grudges and consider the group's interests. Personal grudges cannot supersede the group's development goals.

4. If Yuan Shu's act of sending the letter was clever, why did he later fail in the struggle for power?

Because Yuan Shu only had that one letter; neither his group nor his strategists took any follow-up action against Sun Jian or Liu Biao.

5. If these individuals could travel through time and buy stocks, who would be most likely to suffer a heavy loss due to impulsiveness? Why?

Sun Jian, Cheng Pu, Han Dang, Liu Biao, Kuai Liang, Lü Gong. Probably: Sun Jian.

🏹 Story 7 : Sun Jian's Advance

Yuan Shu wrote a letter urging Sun Jian to attack Liu Biao. Sun Jian dispatched Huang Gai to arrange warships, weapons, provisions, and warhorses, preparing for the attack. Liu Biao sent Huang Zu to resist. Huang Zu sent Zhang Hu and Chen Sheng, ordering Zhang Hu to fight. Han Dang from Sun Jian's camp came out to meet the challenge. The two mounted generals clashed, fighting for over thirty rounds. Chen Sheng, seeing Zhang Hu's strength waning, quickly rode to his aid. Sun Ce saw this, gripped his spear, drew his bowstring, nocked an arrow, and fired, striking Chen Sheng squarely in the face. Chen Sheng was struck by the arrow, fell from his horse, and was startled to see Chen Sheng fall to the ground. Caught off guard, Zhang Hu was struck by Han Dang's blade, losing half his head. Cheng Pu rode straight to the front lines, intending to capture Huang Zu. Huang Zu abandoned his helmet and horse, blending into the infantry to avoid being identified, and then fled. Sun Jian pursued the defeated army all the way to the Han River, ordering Huang Gai to moor the boats there.

1. Was Zhang Hu's performance good?

2. Was Huang Zu's performance good?

1. Was Zhang Hu's performance good?

1. Zhang Hu's performance: Inferior in skill, lacking willpower and resilience.

He shouldn't have hesitated or been distracted during battle. Also: He died.

In the story, Zhang Hu,

saw a fact beyond his comprehension:

His own colleagues, lacking strength and unable to hold out long, were quickly killed!

He felt extreme shock!

If Zhang Hu's mental state had been better, perhaps he could have immediately accepted this fact.

And dealt with the situation on the spot, either fleeing or commanding the battlefield.

No, because he was never calm. No, because he wasn't calm at that time.

2. Was Huang Zu's performance good?

2. Huang Zu was excellent as a survivor, but utterly terrible as a general.

Bad; he evaded reality. And as a general, he shouldn't have run away.

From a personal standpoint, Huang Zu did very well as a survivor.

He abandoned his helmet and horse, blending into the infantry.

This was indeed a very successful escape.

If one maintained their original attire while fleeing,

it would be easy for any soldier or general in the opposing camp to recognize their appearance,

leading to capture or even death by the enemy.

Therefore, any fleeing person blending into the group: abandoning their helmet, armor, and horse,

is both reasonable and clever.

Subsequent chapters:

Cao Cao's escape in the Battle of Puyang,

Cao Cao's performance in the Weinan Battle's disguised escape competition is worth studying.

However, Huang Zu was an extremely poor general.

He was unable to rally his troops, rebuild morale, or organize formations.

He was unable to rearrange his troops when at a disadvantage.

In short: incompetent.

As the old saying goes: "An incompetent general will exhaust his entire army."

Liu Biao was very troubled by the way the preliminary battles turned out.

TSMC's Kumamoto plant in Japan; TSMC's Arizona plant in the United States.

What if: shipping channels are blocked, cash flow is disrupted, or there is commercial espionage...?

Furthermore, several days before the battle,

one should conduct military training for one's troops, including drills and training on formations, tactics, and tactical changes.

Production, warehousing, bookkeeping, information flow, cash flow, accounting, legal affairs, counter-espionage, disaster prevention, telecommunications...

Just before the start of battle,

one should establish several trenches and firewalls within one's own lines, and employ lasso-throwing soldiers to design tripwires;

one should place antlers in front of the main command post, and have caltrop-throwing soldiers to temporarily throw caltrops.

Even if the enemy has a fierce general,

one should use shield-bearers to separate them, and spearmen to attack from a distance;

short-barreled soldiers should approach the enemy general and unleash a concentrated barrage.

No, because he was a coward. He ran away.

⚔️ Story 8 : Yuan Shao's Letter

Yuan Shao stationed his army in Hanoi, and food supplies were dwindling. At this time, Han Fu, the governor of Ji Province, sent provisions to support Yuan Shao's army.

Yuan Shao's strategist, Feng Ji, said to him, "A great man like you, General, who aspires to make a name for yourself, how can you rely on others for provisions? Ji Province is rich in both food and wealth; why don't you take it yourself?" Yuan Shao replied, "I don't have a good plan yet." Feng Ji then said, "You can secretly send a letter to Gongsun Zan, asking him to attack Ji Province, and agreeing to a pincer attack. Gongsun Zan will definitely send troops. Han Fu is incompetent; he will surely ask you to help manage Ji Province. Taking Ji Province then will be as easy as reaching out and grabbing something." Yuan Shao was overjoyed and immediately sent the letter to Gongsun Zan.

Upon receiving the letter, Gongsun Zan was overjoyed to learn that Yuan Shao was willing to cooperate in attacking Ji Province and even share the land. He immediately began preparing his army and setting out.

Yuan Shao then secretly informed Han Fu of this. Han Fu was terrified and immediately summoned his advisors Xun Chen and Xin Ping for advice.

Xun Chen said, "Gongsun Zan is rapidly advancing with a large army from Yan and Dai. His offensive is difficult to withstand, and he also has the support of Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei. Resistance will be extremely difficult. Yuan Shao is both wise and brave, and he has many capable generals under his command. General, you can invite Yuan Shao to jointly govern Ji Province. He will certainly treat you well, and in this way, you will have nothing to fear from Gongsun Zan."

Soon afterward, Yuan Shao took control of Ji Province.

Han Fu's Ji Province was stolen by Yuan Shao.

If Han Fu were to travel back in time from the end of the story to the present moment when the story took place...

1. What will Han Fu think of Xun Chen?

2. How will Han Fu treat Xun Chen?

3. Why doesn't Han Fu understand that Xun Chen might do such a thing to him?

4. If Yuan Shao and Feng Ji could travel through time, what scenario would occur?

You need the support of a local leader. So, we'll create a financial problem for him first, then pretend to rescue him.

You need the support of a local leader. So, we'll create a financial problem for him first, then rescue him.

You need the support of a local leader. So, we'll sincerely establish an alliance with him.

You need the support of a local leader. So, we'll directly use sarcastic remarks to provoke him into anger, then seize his rule.

1. What will Han Fu think of Xun Chen?

You betrayed me, why?

2. How will Han Fu treat Xun Chen?

I can't stand it anymore. I'm going to get rid of you. Imprison Xun Chen, kill him, eliminate him.

3. Why wouldn't Han Fu understand that Xun Chen might do such a thing to him?

Times have changed.

The order dominated by the Han Dynasty and the Han Emperor has vanished.

The era has evolved into one of fierce competition among warlords.

At this time, some people will either: early or secret allegiance to a wise ruler.

Early allegiance means finding a good boss early on,

finding a hero in the chaotic world to fight alongside and create a new era;

Secret allegiance means secretly changing one's boss,

without letting the current boss know,

so that the current boss can be killed as fertilizer for the new boss, a gift for promotion, salary increase, and meritorious service.

4. If Yuan Shao and Feng Ji could travel through time, what scenario would occur?

[Possibly] You need the support of a local leader. So, let's create a financial problem for him first, then pretend to rescue him.

[No] You need the support of the local leader. That way, we'll create a financial problem for him first, and then we'll bail him out.

[No] You need the support of the local leader. That way, we'll sincerely establish an alliance with him.

[No] You need the support of the local leader. That way, we'll directly use sarcastic remarks to provoke him into anger, and then seize his rule.

(Optional:)

Han Fu, what if we traveled back in time several dozen days from the end of the story to the present moment when the story took place?

[Like in the movie: Tomorrow's Edge. Tom Cruise, after getting his hands on the blue monster's blood, could go back to the previous day after death and start over.]

🤝 Story 9 : Dong Zhuo's Diplomacy

When Yuan Shao and Gongsun Zan's armies clashed, Yuan Shao suffered an initial defeat and then held his ground, daring not to engage in further battle. The two armies remained locked in a stalemate for over a month. Someone reported this to Dong Zhuo in Chang'an. Li Ru said to Dong Zhuo, "Yuan Shao and Gongsun Zan are both very powerful men. They are currently fighting each other at Pan River. We can use the Emperor's name to send someone to persuade them to cease hostilities. If they receive the Emperor's favor, they will certainly follow your arrangements, Grand Tutor."

Dong Zhuo was delighted. The next day, he dispatched Grand Tutor Ma Ridi and Grand Master of the Palace Zhao Qi with an imperial edict to Hebei to mediate.

Upon arriving in Hebei, Yuan Shao personally greeted the envoys a hundred li away, kneeling to accept the edict. The following day, they went to Gongsun Zan's camp to read the Emperor's decree. Gongsun Zan then sent a messenger to Yuan Shao, and both sides agreed to a truce. After the matter was concluded, the two messengers returned to the capital to report to Dong Zhuo.

Gongsun Zan immediately withdrew his troops and recommended Liu Bei for the position of Chancellor of Pingyuan. When Liu Bei was about to leave, he and Zhao Yun were reluctant to part, holding hands and shedding tears, unwilling to separate.

Zhao Yun sighed, "I previously mistook Gongsun Zan for a true hero, but now, seeing his actions, he's no different from Yuan Shao."

Liu Bei said, "You will serve under him for now; we will surely meet again in the future." With that, the two parted with tears in their eyes.

1. Based on the circumstances presented in this text, how would Dong Zhuo have treated Yuan Shao if he had the opportunity?

Making good friends, forming an alliance through marriage, developing trade, or directly crushing him…

 Making good friends: Lacking strength and distance. First, put on a diplomatic show.

• Alliance through marriage: Strength is almost there, but still not enough; to weaken the opponent's resolve.

• Developing trade: Superficial trade in goods and economics will occur, but control and management will be exercised over weapons and key resources.

• Directly crush them: This will happen when strength is sufficient.

🎭 Story 10 : Liu Biao's Counterattack

Sun Jian divided his army into four routes, surrounding Xiangyang City and preparing for a full-scale attack. One day, a sudden gale blew up, snapping the flagpole of the central army's banner. Han Dang said, "This is not a good omen; we should retreat first." But Sun Jian said, "We have been winning battles; taking Xiangyang is only a matter of time. How can we retreat just because the flagpole is broken!" He ignored Han Dang's advice and instead pressed on with the attack. At this time, Kuai Liang said to Liu Biao, "Last night I observed the stars and saw a general's star about to fall. Calculating the celestial positions, this indicates that Sun Jian will be in great danger. My lord should quickly write a letter to Yuan Shao for help."

After writing the letter, Liu Biao asked, "Who is willing to rush out and deliver the message?" The brave general Lü Gong immediately agreed. Kuai Liang said, "Since you dare to go, listen to my plan. I'll give you five hundred soldiers, with plenty of archers. After you break out, head straight for Xian Mountain. They will definitely pursue you. Send one hundred men up the mountain to prepare stones, and another hundred to lie in ambush in the forest, preparing crossbows. When the pursuers come, don't run directly; instead, circle around them, leading them into an ambush. Then, the stones from the mountain and the arrows from the forest will rain down together, defeating the enemy. If successful, fire a series of signal cannon shots, and the people in the city will come out to support you. If there are no pursuers, don't fire the signal cannons; just continue on your way. The moon isn't very bright tonight; you can leave the city after dark."

After hearing the plan, Lü Gong prepared his soldiers and horses. After dark, they quietly rushed out through the east gate. Sun Jian, in his tent, suddenly heard shouts of battle. He quickly mounted his horse and led thirty-odd cavalrymen to investigate. The soldiers reported, "A group of people has rushed out of the city and fled towards Xian Mountain." Sun Jian didn't wait for his generals to assemble; he only led thirty-odd cavalrymen and gave chase. Lu Gong had already laid an ambush in the woods and on the slopes surrounding Mount Xian. Sun Jian's horse was fast, and he charged ahead. When Sun Jian shouted, "Don't run!" Lu Gong turned his horse to meet him. The two exchanged blows, and Lu Gong feigned defeat, turning and fleeing into the mountain path.

Sun Jian gave chase but couldn't find Lu Gong. Just as he was about to climb the mountain, suddenly a gong sounded, and a large number of rocks tumbled down the mountain, while countless arrows shot from the woods.

Sun Jian was struck by rocks and arrows, suffering a severe head wound, and died on the spot at Mount Xian, at the young age of thirty-seven. His thirty-odd cavalrymen were also all killed. Only then did Lu Gong fire a series of signal cannon shots. Huang Zu, Kuai Yue, Cai Mao, and others in the city immediately led their troops out. This sudden attack threw the Jiangdong army into chaos, forcing them to retreat.

1. How to protect one's own leader?

2. How to eliminate the leader of an opponent?

1. How to protect one's own leader?

Sufficient bodyguards, manpower for protection, a meticulous security plan,

an evacuation plan in case of emergency, someone who understands their feelings and offers advice,

a meticulous person as the security chief,

setting passwords, a strong and resilient mental defense, a sound self-identity…

2. How to eliminate the opponent's leader?

Use force or deception to distract bodyguards, or kill those responsible for their protection;

Or shake the mind of the protector; or influence their will;

Target blind spots in their thinking patterns to break through their meticulous security plans;

Or use a double-deal, breaking through their emergency evacuation plans;

Have someone who understands their feelings persuade them;

Employ a meticulous person as the security chief, then use them to sow discord;

If a password is set, extract it or deceive them;

Immerse their strong mental defenses;

Break down resilient mental defenses with a fast-paced approach;

Use a well-defined self-identity, and dismantle it with chaotic anchors…

🌹 Story 11 : Diao Chan's Beauty Trap

😈 Dong Zhuo is so wicked!

Previous Summary: Once upon a time, there was a great villain named Dong Zhuo. He seized the capital, replaced the emperor, and wanted to be the boss himself. He was extremely ruthless, and the ministers were all afraid of him, daring not to speak out.

One day, Dong Zhuo held a meeting and drank wine. He actually ordered his adopted son, Lü Bu, to arrest a high-ranking official named Zhang Wen. Then, not long after, he cut off Zhang Wen's head and displayed it on a plate for everyone to see!

All the high-ranking officials trembled with fear, but no one dared to speak.

😭 Wang Yun's Secret Plan

An upright official named Wang Yun returned home, feeling very sad and afraid. He worried that the country would be destroyed by Dong Zhuo.

Late at night, he went to the garden and saw his concubine, Diao Chan, secretly sighing. Diao Chan was very beautiful and could sing and dance. Wang Yun always loved her like his own daughter. Wang Yun knelt down and said to Diao Chan, "Child, the country is in grave trouble! Dong Zhuo wants to be emperor, and we can't stop him. However, both Dong Zhuo and his adopted son, Lü Bu, are extremely fond of beautiful women!"

💡 Secret Weapon: The Chain Scheme Wang Yun said, "I've devised a chain scheme (a plan like a series of interlocking rings):

1. I'll pretend to betroth you to Lü Bu.

2. Then, I'll give you to Dong Zhuo.

You must take the opportunity to sow discord between father and son, causing them to quarrel and turn against each other, and then have Lü Bu kill Dong Zhuo. This way, the country will be saved! Are you willing to help?"

Diao Chan listened and bravely said, "My lord, I am willing! Even if it means my death, I will help you! Please give me to them quickly."

💍 First Time: Giving Lü Bu a Sweet Treat

Wang Yun was delighted and immediately had a craftsman make a gold hat inlaid with jewels, which he secretly gave to Lü Bu. Lü Bu was overjoyed and immediately came to Wang Yun's house to thank him.

Wang Yun invited Lü Bu to dinner, then summoned the beautifully dressed Diao Chan to offer him a toast. Lü Bu's eyes widened at Diao Chan; he stared at her intently.

Wang Yun, feigning drunkenness, said to Lü Bu, "General Lü, I'd like to offer this daughter to you as a concubine. Would you accept her?"

Lü Bu was overjoyed and quickly thanked him, "That's wonderful! If I could marry her, I would certainly repay you!"

Lü Bu believed Diao Chan was already his and was extremely happy.

🎁 Second Time: A Surprise for Dong Zhuo

A few days later, Wang Yun secretly approached Dong Zhuo and invited him to his home for dinner. When Dong Zhuo arrived, Wang Yun had Diao Chan come out to dance.

Dong Zhuo, seeing Diao Chan's ethereal beauty, immediately asked, "Who is this?" Wang Yun replied, "This is my singing girl. I wish to present her to you, Grand Tutor!"

Dong Zhuo was delighted and immediately accepted Diao Chan. Wang Yun promptly sent someone to transport Diao Chan to Dong Zhuo's home by carriage.

😡 Lu Bu was furious!

Lu Bu initially believed Diao Chan to be his wife, but after several days, he couldn't find her anywhere.

Later, he learned that Diao Chan had been taken away by his adoptive father, Dong Zhuo!

One day, Diao Chan passed by in her carriage and saw Lü Bu in the distance. She deliberately covered her face with her sleeve, pretending to cry secretly.

Upon seeing this, Lü Bu was enraged and shouted, "That old man Dong Zhuo actually stole my woman! I must kill him and avenge him!"

🗡️ Lü Bu killed Dong Zhuo

Under Diao Chan's instigation, the relationship between Lü Bu and Dong Zhuo deteriorated. Finally, arranged by Wang Yun, on an important day, Lü Bu, wielding his great weapon—the halberd—charged out, shouting, "I am here on the Emperor's orders to kill that villain Dong Zhuo!" He thrust his halberd forward and killed Dong Zhuo!

All the soldiers cheered with joy at the death of their great villain.

Diao Chan successfully used her wisdom and beauty to help the country eliminate its greatest enemy!

✉️ Story 12 : Taishi Ci's Breakthrough

During the late Eastern Han Dynasty, the Yellow Turban Rebellion broke out. General Taishi Ci was returning from Liaodong to visit his mother. However, the governor of Beihai, Kong Rong, was surrounded by Yellow Turban rebels led by Guan Hai, and Taishi Ci was unable to escape. Taishi Ci thought: "There are too many Yellow Turban rebels outside the city; if I force my way out, I won't succeed." So he devised a plan: he found a few soldiers to carry an archery target. They followed him, and he swaggered to the city gate and walked out.

The Yellow Turban rebels, thinking he was trying to break out, prepared to intercept and kill him. But Taishi Ci simply went to the trenches outside the city, stayed by the moat, and practiced archery. After practicing, he went back into the city to rest. He did the same thing the next day, and some Yellow Turban soldiers stopped paying attention to him. Taishi Ci did this every day afterward. After some time, the Yellow Turban soldiers all assumed Taishi Ci was just a fellow archer practicing. Then one day, Taishi Ci went outside the city to practice archery. Finding no Yellow Turban soldiers paying him any attention, he suddenly mounted his horse and galloped out of the city.

The key to Taishi Ci's success was: "What is commonplace is not suspected." What is frequently seen will not be doubted. By using this public deception to lull others into a false sense of security, the Yellow Turban soldiers became careless.

1. How would an amateur siege force typically besiege a city?

2. When facing a besieged defender, what timing is crucial when requesting reinforcements?

3. How can the feasibility of various proposals be verified? (Reference: Taishi Ci's proposal and Kong Rong's response)

4. How can the timing of implementing various proposals be verified? (Reference: Taishi Ci's proposal and Kong Rong's response)

5. What is the key to making the enemy complacent? (Reference: Taishi Ci's strategy against the Yellow Turban Army)

1. How would an amateur siege force typically besiege a city?

They simply ordered all their men to besiege the city. There was no formation, no organization of the troops. They didn't assign specific units of ten men, one hundred men in shifts, or one thousand men to each section of the wall; they didn't observe wind direction, monitor the interior and exterior, or prepare for defense.

As expected, this was an amateur siege force, lacking in: the ability to simultaneously manage supplies and scouts; information gathering; decision-making; communication with local residents; implementation of rules, lifestyle, and values; hygiene; camp management (including responsibility for living areas); logistics; procurement of supplies; personnel systems; management hierarchy; tiered responsibility; currency system; reward system; reward and punishment system; weapon preparation; engineering equipment preparation; siege weapon preparation; intelligence gathering; intelligence stations; intelligence warfare…

2. When facing a besieged defender, what timing is crucial when requesting reinforcements?

If the initial siege is not tight, request reinforcements immediately. As the siege tightens, select highly skilled generals. Divide the forces into two or three units. One unit feigns an attack to distract the enemy. Another unit breaks out from the weakest point in the defenses. Alternatively, use the first decoy unit to lure the enemy forces away, concentrating them in a specific area before launching an attack. For example: Prepare three troops first. The first is for probing, the second for seizing the opportunity.

3. How to verify the feasibility of various proposals? Reference: Taishi Ci's proposal, Kong Rong's response

Don't abandon a breakout or all-out attack based on fear. First, test the strength and weakness of the enemy's forces in various locations. Send out armed troops for a quick test. If it proves useful, then seize the opportunity to attack or break out, instead of just listening to others' opinions and thinking it won't work.

4. How to verify the timing of implementing various proposals? Reference: Taishi Ci's proposal, Kong Rong's response

Send out small units to try it.

Don't avoid trying because of fear.

5. What is the key to making the enemy complacent? Reference: Taishi Ci's approach to the Yellow Turban Army

Do the same thing repeatedly every day, causing the enemy to misjudge your true intentions and the timing of your attack.

🦁 Story 13 : Liu Bei/Yellow Turbans, Cao Cao/Lu Bu

Guan Hai, seeing reinforcements arrive, personally led his troops out to meet them. He underestimated Liu Bei's forces, considering them few.

Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Taishi Ci sat side-by-side on horseback, waiting. Guan Hai charged forward angrily. Just as Taishi Ci was about to advance, Guan Yu had already ridden ahead, charging straight at Guan Hai.

The two horses clashed, the soldiers shouting encouragement. Guan Hai was no match for Guan Yu. After several dozen rounds, Guan Yu struck down with his sword, cutting Guan Hai off his horse.

Taishi Ci and Zhang Fei also charged into the enemy ranks simultaneously, their spears flashing left and right, scattering the enemy in all directions. Liu Bei seized the opportunity to lead his troops in pursuit.

Kong Rong, watching from the city walls, saw Taishi Ci, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei charge into the enemy ranks like tigers among sheep, unstoppable. He immediately led the city's troops out.

Under the combined attack, the enemy army suffered a crushing defeat. Many surrendered, and the rest fled in all directions.

Meanwhile, Cao Cao pointed at Lü Bu and said, "I have no enmity with you, why did you seize my prefectures?" Lü Bu coldly replied, "The cities of the Han dynasty belong to everyone, why should only you occupy them?" He then ordered Zang Ba to challenge him.

Cao Cao's army sent Yue Jin to meet the challenge. The two fought for over thirty rounds, neither gaining the upper hand. Xiahou Dun, seeing this, also mounted and joined the battle. In Lü Bu's ranks, Zhang Liao immediately rode out to block Xiahou Dun. Enraged, Lü Bu, wielding his halberd, charged forward on horseback. Xiahou Dun and Yue Jin could not withstand him and were forced to retreat. Lü Bu pursued relentlessly, inflicting a major defeat on Cao Cao's army, which retreated thirty or forty li. 1. What problem did Guan Hai make?

2. What problems existed in the military organization of the Yellow Turban army?

3. Why did the army collapse as soon as its commander died?

4. Why did Lü Bu fail in politics and propaganda?

1. What problem did Guan Hai make?

He judged the strength of the enemy solely by the number of soldiers, without assessing the abilities of the enemy generals; he also failed to send a deputy general to scout the enemy's situation.

2. What problems existed in the military organization of the Yellow Turban army?

The army lacked a system of deputy generals and third generals. Therefore, when the commander died, the group lost command, and when faced with defeat, the lack of leadership led to collapse.

A second commander, a third commander, and a hierarchical command structure should have been established, requiring layered responsibility and resistance to maximize the organization's strength.

3. Why did the army collapse as soon as its commander died?

The lack of a deputy general and a third general meant that the group lost command upon the death of the commander, leading to collapse in the face of defeat.

A second commander and a third commander should have been established, along with a hierarchical command structure to ensure layered responsibility and resistance, maximizing the organization's strength.

4. Why did Lü Bu fail in politics and propaganda?

Because he believed that everyone had a share in the Han Dynasty's cities and that he could conquer them by force alone.

He failed to issue a campaign proclamation to restore a relatively stable order or establish new rules for everyone to live peacefully.

Instead, he became a force to be reckoned with; he only worshipped strength, and weakness meant replacement.

🔥 Story 14 : The Burning of Puyang City

After Lü Bu returned to camp, he consulted with Chen Gong. Chen Gong said, "There's a wealthy and powerful family named Tian in Puyang City. We can have him send a message to Cao Cao saying that you are cruel and tyrannical, and the people hate you. Then, pretend that you've transferred all your troops to Liyang, leaving only Gao Shun to defend the city. Cao Cao will definitely attack the city at night. We'll prepare fire attacks and ambushes within the city. Once he enters, he'll fall into the trap and won't be able to escape." Lü Bu followed this plan and sent someone to have Tian deliver the false letter to Cao Cao.

Cao Cao had just suffered a defeat and was hesitant when Tian's messenger arrived, presenting the secret letter. The letter said, "Lü Bu has gone to Liyang, and the city is sparsely defended. Please come quickly; we will meet you in the city. A white flag with the character '义' (righteousness) on it is the code." Cao Cao was overjoyed and said, "Heaven is giving me Puyang!"

1. How could Lü Bu possibly find out Cao Cao's whereabouts?

2. Hunting down a specific target in a chaotic city is inherently difficult. How could the initial fire trap be designed to more easily capture Cao Cao?

1. How could Lü Bu possibly find out Cao Cao's whereabouts?

"I was sent by Guo Jia; please escape with me!"

In other words, first pretend to be a member of the enemy camp to gain their trust. The goal isn't to hunt him down, but to gain their trust through deception.

Alternatively, arrange for a resident or a wealthy person in the city to act as a double agent; feigning help for Cao Cao while actually leading him into the trap again.

2. Hunting down a specific target in a chaotic city is inherently difficult. How should the initial fire trap be designed to make it easier to capture Cao Cao?

It needs to be very elaborate. For example, inside the administrative buildings and around the city, there should be actors acting as if they are genuinely welcoming Cao Cao, encouraging him to venture deeper and reach specific locations.

🔥 Story 15 : Cao Cao's Escape

This is a story about Cao Cao's clever escape.

Cao Cao was overjoyed, saying, "Heaven is giving me Puyang!" Cao Cao led his army to the walls of Puyang and indeed saw many flags flying on the city walls. In the corner of the west gate, there was a white flag with the character "义" (righteousness) written on it. He was even more convinced that his plan had succeeded.

Cao Cao rushed into the city on horseback. However, when he reached the vicinity of the prefectural government office, he suddenly realized that there was no one there. He immediately realized he had been tricked and hurriedly turned his horse around, shouting, "Retreat!"

Just then, cannons suddenly roared from the prefectural government office, and all four city gates simultaneously burst into flames, the fire reaching the sky. Drums and gongs sounded loudly, and ambushers rushed out, their shouts deafening, like surging waves.

At that time, Cao Cao was fleeing, while the valiant Lü Bu searched for him throughout the city. Cao Cao found himself in a very dangerous predicament, as enemies surrounded him from all sides, wanting to capture or kill him. He tried to escape through the south gate, but was blocked. He turned to the north gate, only to find himself face-to-face with Lü Bu on horseback, wielding a long halberd, in the firelight!

In this dire situation, Cao Cao quickly covered his face with his hands and charged forward on horseback, managing to slip through! Lü Bu caught up from behind, lightly tapping Cao Cao's armor with his halberd, then shouted, "Where is Cao Cao?"

Cao Cao, quick-witted, immediately pointed ahead and shouted, "That man riding a yellow horse ahead is Cao Cao!" Lü Bu believed him and immediately spurred his horse forward, killing the innocent rider. Using this opportunity, Cao Cao successfully escaped danger, cleverly fleeing like a cicada shedding its shell.

1. Why did the wealthy Tian family become an important player?

2. Why didn't they successfully burn Cao Cao?

3. How could this trap to burn Cao Cao be made better?

4. How would Cao Cao confirm this?

1. Why did the wealthy Tian family become an important player?

During periods of dynastic change, political evolution, and dramatic shifts in military power—such as the Qin-Han Contention, the late Eastern Han Dynasty before the Three Kingdoms period, the late Sui Dynasty, the late Tang Dynasty, the late Yuan Dynasty, and the late Qing Dynasty and early Republic of China—warlord eras, coupled with influential figures in the contemporary economy or politics, meant they needed to choose sides due to their significant influence. This choice could involve: investing in both sides, siding with whoever wins, double agents, feigning friendship with one side while actually siding with another, or feigning friendship with one family while actually siding with another.

2. Why didn't they successfully burn Cao Cao?

A successful plan has the right overall direction. However, the execution is crucial. Luring Cao Cao into the city, then what? What specific place should he be lured to? What method should be used? How can he be prevented from wandering off from the designated spot? The details are not well-defined.

There are also no plans in place, such as: what if Cao Cao becomes alert? Or what if he realizes something is wrong halfway through his journey? Or what if he splits into hundreds of small groups to escape?

3. How can this trap of setting fire to Cao Cao be improved?

Divide the city geographically into x-axis and y-axis zones. Each zone should have a more detailed task allocation for burning Cao Cao and ambushing him; the plan should be more flexible. First, bind one of Cao Cao's surrendered soldiers and train them as double agents. Then, the city's layout could be deliberately designed so that what appears to be an escape route is actually a dead end.

4. How to confirm if it's Cao Cao himself?

Sometimes you need to gather more information. But sometimes there's a vast amount of information, and the truth is hidden in a sea of information, which is sometimes impossible to resolve. In the story, Cao Cao ran to the city's administrative center, only to discover it was a trap. He should have noticed something amiss after walking a few streets. If there were 30 streets, after walking ten, wouldn't he have sensed something strange? Why wasn't anyone there to make contact? He should have realized it sooner.