Be the first to seize intersecting ground, that is ground which lies the intersections of borders or intersections of main thoroughfares of commerce and travel. Your occupation of it gives you access to all who border it and all who would covet it. On intersecting ground, if you establish alliances you are safe, if you lose alliances you are in peril.
Sun TzuIn conflict, straightforward actions generally lead to engagement, surprising actions generally lead to victory.
Sun TzuRely not on the likelihood of the enemy's not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him
Sun TzuThe best victory is when the opponent surrenders of its own accord before there are any actual hostilities...It is best to win without fighting.
Sun Tzu