Treatise on Armament Technology, Volume 152

Section on Observation and Measurement: Solar Divination, Part 3

If there are three layers of red vapor beside the sun, war will arise throughout the world.

If there are red clouds intertwined beside the sun, it is unfavorable to be the first to mobilize troops original: 先舉 (xiān jǔ). In traditional Chinese military strategy, being the "first to move" or the aggressor was often discouraged if the celestial signs favored the defender or indicated chaos. in the region below.

If there are red clouds beside the sun facing toward it, within three years a new ruler will be established in that region.

If there are red clouds beside the sun with sharp, pointed ends, it is unfavorable to be the first to mobilize troops in the region below.

If red clouds surround the sun on three sides, and the bases of the clouds hang downward while the upper part is clear and bright, it signifies a great victory.

If red clouds flank and support the sun original: 扶日 (fú rì). "Supporting" implies clouds positioned on the left and right of the sun, as if holding it up., war will arise in the region below, and territory will be lost.

If red clouds mask the sun, it signifies a great battle and unlucky ground original: 凶地 (xiōng dì). This refers to a location that is geomantically or divinatorily hazardous for a military camp or engagement. for the region below.

If at sunset the sky and clouds are entirely red, there will be a great drought and war will arise.

However, if there has been a long drought and red clouds cover the sky, reflecting their light into the mountains and valleys, then there will be rain on the following day.