Against those skilled in attack, an enemy does not know where to defend; against the experts in defense, the enemy does not know where to attack.
Sun TzuA military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective.
Sun TzuWhen you do battle, even if you are winning, if you continue for a long time it will dull your forces and blunt you edge...If you keep your armies out in the field for a long time, your supplies will be insufficient. Transportation of provisions itself consumes 20 times the amount transported.
Sun TzuWe cannot enter into alliance with neighbouring princes until we are acquainted with their designs. We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country - its mountains and forests, its pitfalls and precipices, its marshes and swamps. We shall be unable to turn natural advantages to account unless we make use of local guides.
Sun Tzu