Siege Feasibility Assessment

• Accept smaller gains now while enemy is uncertain
• Let enemy allies become angry at being preempted
• Benefit from their subsequent competition to serve you

Decision Criteria

• If defenders significantly outnumber attackers: Do not besiege
• If fortifications are formidable: Do not besiege
• If failure means losing previous gains: Withdraw
• If enemy is currently uncertain: Negotiate smaller gains

Expected Outcomes

• Avoid costly failures
• Secure achievable gains
• Preserve forces for future campaigns

Validation

1. Apply the historical precedent test honestly — if legendary commanders could not take the city with comparable forces, your chances are no better
2. Verify that external factors (approaching allied forces, rear vulnerabilities) have been accounted for in the timeline
3. Confirm the proposed alternative (accepting smaller gains) is genuinely achievable and not merely a face-saving retreat