Therefore the skillful leader subdues the enemy's troops without any fighting; he captures their cities without laying siege to them; he overthrows their kingdom without lengthy operations in the field.

All war is deception.

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.

I will be able to forecast which side will be victorious and which defeated.

Peace proposals unaccompanied by a sworn covenant indicate a plot.

The successful person has unusual skill at dealing with conflict and ensuring the best outcome for all.

Generally in war the best policy is to take a state intact; to ruin it is inferior to this.