空城计

Zhuge Liang was staying in a small town after sending most of his soldiers away. A scout suddenly reported that Sima Yi was approaching with a much larger army. The town had too few soldiers to defend its walls, and escape would leave local families in danger. Zhuge Liang's advisers required an immediate plan.

Zhuge Liang ordered the gates to be opened. A few soldiers put on ordinary clothes and swept the streets. He sat above the gate and played music calmly. Even though his men felt great fear, the town showed no sign of panic. Sima Yi knew his opponent's reputation and believed the peaceful scene provided evidence of a hidden trap.

To deal with the uncertainty, Sima Yi told his army to turn away. The townspeople survived without a battle. Zhuge Liang later explained that the plan depended on Sima Yi's caution; a less careful leader might have attacked. Courage alone was not enough. His wisdom came from understanding another person's habits and using silence to change apparent weakness into a temporary defense.