Victories without consolidation bring ruin. Rulers and generals must wage war only for tangible gains, never out of rage. Anger fades, but ruined states and lost lives cannot be recovered; prudence safeguards the nation and army.
Adjust tactics flexibly for five fire attacks. Strike from windward only when flames blaze fiercely. Fire devastates foes thoroughly, while water merely blocks their advance; commanders must master all fire attack rules.
Sun Tzu lists five fire attack targets: soldiers, provisions, carts, storehouses and troop formations. Prearrange fire tools and launch assaults on dry, windy days when the moon passes four specific constellations for favorable winds.