To maximize short-term violent returns, legitimate violent groups can also degenerate into bandits.

The defense zones of the late Qing warlords frequently changed hands, implementing a policy of killing the chicken to take the eggs. The negative consequences might not necessarily fall upon oneself, and for now, strength can be bolstered. However, if they adopt a policy of raising chickens to lay eggs, they might not be able to eat the eggs in the future, and the chickens might be stolen and eaten by others. Furthermore, the current malnutrition could quickly lead to collapse. Given this situation, depleting the marsh to catch the fish—a standard bandit tactic—is the most advantageous choice.