Treatise on Military Preparedness

If red clouds shaped like birds fly on both sides of the sun, there will be sorrow in that terrestrial division original: 分野 (fēnyě). A system of Chinese astrology that maps specific regions of the sky to corresponding geographic regions on Earth. Whatever happens in a certain part of the sky is said to affect its corresponding province.. Alternatively, it signifies misfortune for the ruler of the state.

If clouds resemble a red bird pecking at the sun, it indicates that military action is about to arise.

If red clouds like chickens or pheasants appear above the sun, within three months, that terrestrial division will experience war and mourning.

If there are red clouds below the sun that cross each other like knives, flanking the sun with their blades pointing downward, this is greatly ominous.

If there is red vapor below the sun shaped like sharp blades on both sides, the army will be destroyed, the generals will be killed, and the sovereign himself will suffer from this calamity.

If the red vapor beside the sun is shaped like a hanging bell or a reclining person, a general at the border will die.

If the vapor beside the sun is shaped like a pestle original: 杵 (chǔ). A heavy tool used for pounding grain; in a military context, its appearance was often a warning of blunt force or crushing defeat., and it is red and bright, it is unfavorable to deploy the army.

If there are red clouds beside the sun, curved like a carriage wheel, there is military misfortune below. Alternatively, it means a minister will betray the ruler original: 臣背 (chén bèi). Literally "minister turns his back," implying treason or desertion..