7 – The Army – Attack – Land overtaking Water

Whether we think ourselves businessman, warrior or monk; all life is a battle and should be treated as such. The army executes the will of its king. Soldiers are drawn from surrounding villages to be bestowed honor and discipline. Recruit and Train!

1^st – Training the Army – The wise general spends his time teaching the army how to march properly. For if a man is capable of doing one thing perfectly, then he is capable of doing all things perfectly. Discipline is the foundation of the army. A solider following an order without hesitation may be the difference between victory and death. Without discipline, disaster will strike.

2^nd – The General’s Army – The army is only as effective as its general, who is only effective as his king. The wise man would honor his general three times and place faith in this subordinate to execute his will properly and at his own discretion. It would be best not to be a back seat driver.

3^rd – Causalities of the Army – The ravens circle; the wagons are laden with corpses. Our enemy attacked us while we were sleeping. Be on guard for that which is unseen.

4^th – The Army Retreats – Military campaigns are concerned with one thing and one thing only; Victory. Thus said, only a fool would advance when the wise man would halt and retreat. Battle should be fought on another day when the odds are more favorable.

5^th – The Army Under Siege – Rabid wolves road the countryside as the army sets camp and posts sentries. The wise man keeps his thoughts to himself and does not discuss plans with subordinates. The oldest son should be placed in command, while the younger son is a lout and not suitable for any role save carrying the corpses. We should hold our ground.

6^th – The Prince’s Army – He rides forth on a gallant steed. Command should be given to a kind man whose words inspire sincerity and respect. To allow a man of harsh words to take the reins will surly lead to disaster.

All Six – The Army Disbands – The rebels have been quelled, the enemy has joined in alliance. There is no longer a need to retain a large amount of soldiers. We should send our men home to their families and maintain a small honor guard to remind the populace of what we are capable.