Not only did the enemy refuse to retreat, their attacks grew fiercer!
Their battle cries shook the valley!
The officers grew anxious and once again begged Wang Yang to break out at once.
Wang Yang smiled.
"The enemy is about to flee. Why would we break out? Order the vanguard to pursue hard as soon as they run. Chase them one li, then halt and reform to await the rear troops."
The officers were dubious.
Yet before half a quarter-hour had passed, the enemy suddenly drew back. The barbarian soldiers whose cries had just shaken the heavens now receded like a tide!
The vanguard had already received Wang Yang's orders and immediately surged forward in pursuit.
Astonished and delighted, the officers asked how Wang Yang had known the enemy would retreat.
Wang Yang said:
"They came under cover of night, secretly taking a roundabout route. Instead of striking the flank or rear of our main army at the Hot Spring River, they attacked Northern Mountain. That means their strength was limited, and they had not arranged to coordinate with the barbarians facing us. They had misgivings and dared not aim high, so they passed over our main camp, hoping to seize Northern Mountain by a stroke of luck. They did not come specifically for me.
"Once they saw me openly display my banners and drums and light fires to illuminate the mountain, they were bound to grow suspicious. Suspicion breeds fear. How could an isolated force linger once fear took hold?
"They also feared we would seize the opportunity to pursue and slaughter them, so they dared not retreat abruptly. Instead, they raised a clamor and attacked fiercely to make a show of strength.
"Before a candle goes out, its flame always leaps up and shines brightly, then suddenly darkens.