Scroll of the Coiling Serpent – Inscription VI

The Mongoose’s Cunning Feint – “The mongoose feints to distract the cobra, a testament to the power of misdirection. Deceive your enemies and strike when they least expect.”

“The Mongoose’s Cunning Feint” principle draws inspiration from the behavior of the mongoose, a small carnivorous mammal known for its ability to take on venomous snakes like cobras. When confronted with a cobra, the mongoose displays a remarkable tactic – it engages in cunning feints and deceptive movements to distract and confuse the snake. This strategy serves as a powerful lesson in the art of misdirection and the significance of surprising enemies when they least expect it. In the context of strategy and decision-making, this principle highlights the effectiveness of employing clever feints and deceptive maneuvers to outmaneuver opponents and create favorable opportunities for striking at the right moment.

Application to Political Power

In the realm of politics, “The Mongoose’s Cunning Feint” principle emphasizes the value of employing misdirection and calculated deception to achieve strategic objectives. Politicians and leaders can use strategic feints and false signals to distract adversaries and keep them off balance. By skillfully misdirecting attention or intentions, politicians can create confusion among opponents, making it challenging for them to anticipate the next move. This principle also underscores the importance of timing – striking at the opportune moment when adversaries are least prepared can yield significant advantages in political power struggles.

The Battle of Tricamarum – Belisarius’ Tactical Deception

A compelling historical event that illustrates “The Mongoose’s Cunning Feint” principle is the Battle of Tricamarum in 533 CE during the Byzantine-Gothic War. The battle took place between the Byzantine forces under General Belisarius and the Ostrogothic Kingdom. In the midst of the conflict, Belisarius employed a brilliant tactical deception to gain the upper hand against his Gothic adversaries.

Recognizing the strength of the Gothic cavalry and the formidable position of the enemy’s infantry, Belisarius devised a cunning feint. He ordered a portion of his infantry to feign a retreat, luring the Gothic cavalry to pursue what seemed like a vulnerable target. However, the feigned retreat was a strategic trap. As the Gothic cavalry charged, the Byzantine infantry suddenly turned and unleashed a devastating counterattack, catching the Gothic forces off guard.

The tactical deception executed by Belisarius proved successful, causing confusion and disarray among the Gothic ranks. The Byzantine forces capitalized on the Gothic cavalry’s momentary vulnerability and gained a decisive advantage in the battle. Ultimately, this brilliant use of misdirection and deceptive maneuvers led to a resounding victory for the Byzantine forces.

The Battle of Tricamarum exemplifies “The Mongoose’s Cunning Feint” principle in the context of warfare. Belisarius’ strategic use of misdirection and the unexpected counterattack serves as a powerful testament to the effectiveness of employing cunning feints to deceive enemies and strike at the opportune moment. This historical example highlights how skillful misdirection and clever feints can lead to significant victories in the face of formidable adversaries.

[Black Watch | Scrolls of ShunyaScroll of the Coiling Serpent]

Last Modified: 08/05/2023

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