Setting Up · Camp · and Arranging · the Formation ·

...y Completing "cavalry" from the previous page. to move into their designated positions.

Whenever a long blast is sounded on the horn, a single cannon is fired, and the command flag is waved Original: moqi (磨旗). This refers to a pivoting or circular motion of the flag used to signal a change in direction., it is the command for all soldiers to turn. Every man must look toward the direction where the flag is pointing and turn both their bodies and their war wagons Original: che (車). Heavy, often armored wagons used by the Ming military as mobile fortifications. toward that specific location.

When the arrangement of the formation is complete and the horn has paused, if it sounds again for the "Arranging the Ranks" signal, it is the command for the three branches—the wagons, infantry, and cavalry—to spread out in a single straight line to form a battle array and prepare for combat.

Fourth: Understanding the Signal Horn ·

Whenever the signal horn Original: bolo (哱囉). A conical brass trumpet or shell used for distinct, high-pitched field commands. sounds, it is the command for all soldiers to rise. If it sounds a second time, it is the signal for the cavalry to mount their horses, the wagon soldiers to take their positions at the wagons, and the infantry to stand ready with their weapons in hand.

Fifth: Understanding the Gongs ·

Whenever the gong is struck, it is the command for the cavalry to dismount and the wagon soldiers to step down from their vehicles. If the gong is struck again, it signals that all three branches of the military are to sit on the ground and rest. During this time, all flags and banners are to be lowered and laid flat Original: yanwo (偃臥). Literally "to lie prostrate." In a military context, this signifies a full stand-down where banners are tucked away to hide the troop position or simply to rest the flag-bearers..