The straightest tree is the first to be cut down. The well with the sweetest water is the first to be drained. ~ Duke Ren, Spring and Autumn Period

A state that is great carries the seeds of its demise, just as a giant tree singles itself out for the blow of the axe. Weakness brings life, strength brings death. ~ Lao Zi, Spring and Autumn Period

In good times, the wise man works for the state. In bad times, he looks after himself. ~ Jie Yu, Spring and Autumn Period

War is like a fire; if you do not put aside your weapons, they will eventually consume you. ~ Li Chuan, Tang Dynasty

There is no victory in winning a hundred battles. There is victory in subduing your enemy without fighting at all. ~ Sun Zi, Spring and Autumn Period

He is victorious who knows when and when not to fight. ~ Sun Zi, Spring and Autumn Period

The art of war lies in thwarting the enemy’s plans, in breaking up his alliances, and then, only then, in attacking his army. ~ Sun Zi, Spring and Autumn Period

The swing of a sword cannot cut the mist from the sky. ~ Li He, Tang Dynasty

When the work of the perfect leader is done well, the people think they have done it all by themselves. ~ Lao Zi, Spring and Autumn Period