It is imperative to contest all factions for complete victory, so the army is not garrisoned and the profit can be total. This is the law of strategic siege.

If I wish to engage, then the enemy, for all his high ramparts and deep moat, cannot avoid engagement; I attack that which he is obliged to rescue.

Those who would wage war, should first eliminate all domestic enemies before proceeding to attack the external foe.

Ponder and deliberate before you make a move.

When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce.

In the midst of difficulties we are always ready to seize an advantage, we may extricate ourselves from misfortune.

With regard to narrow passes, if you can occupy them first, let them be strongly garrisoned and await the advent of the enemy.