The best victory is when the opponent surrenders of its own accord before there are any actual hostilities...It is best to win without fighting.

A clever general... avoids an army when its spirit is keen, but attacks it when it is sluggish and inclined to return. This is the art of studying moods. Disciplined and calm, he awaits the appearance of disorder and hubbub among the enemy. This is the art of retaining self-possession.

There has never been a protracted war from which a country has benefitted.

With regard to precipitous heights, if you are beforehand with your adversary, you should occupy the raised and sunny spots, and there wait for him to come up.

Thus those skilled in war subdue the enemy's army without battle .... They conquer by strategy.

Keep their friends close and their enemies closer.

Opportunities increase as they are taken.