“Whoever is first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy, will be fresh for the fight; whoever is second in the field and has to hasten to battle, will arrive exhausted.”

I learned this truth when my own men were broken by a rival who had taken the high ground before dawn. They stood ready, their breath steady, while I watched his banners rise from a position I should have claimed hours prior. My troops marched hard through mud and heat only to find him waiting. Their swords were dull from travel, their legs heavy with fatigue. We fought as if we had already lost, for the battle was decided before the first arrow flew. The one reading this must secure his ground before nightfall. Do not wait for an invitation to move; take the position where the sun rises and let the enemy come to you.

I ask you to leave your camp at daybreak and hold the road until shadows lengthen. Do not send runners ahead with news of your weakness, nor delay while you debate the best path. A commander who hesitates gives his army no chance to be fresh. If you must move, let it be so swift that the enemy cannot guess your intent or prepare their own defenses against you.