Category 02

Stratagems of Defending

敌战计 · 势均博弈谋略

Strategies for situations of equal strength. These stratagems emphasize concealment, patience, and finding hidden advantages.

Stratagem 07

Creating Something Out of Nothing

无中生有

Use bluff and deception to create the illusion of strength. Make the enemy believe you have resources or capabilities you do not.

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Stratagem 08

Openly Repairing the Plank Road While Secretly Marching Through Chencang

暗渡陈仓

Pretend to attack in one direction while secretly advancing in another. Use visible preparations to mask your true intentions.

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Stratagem 09

Observing the Fire from Across the River

隔岸观火

Wait for the enemy to destroy themselves. When opponents are fighting among themselves, stay out of it and let them weaken each other.

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Stratagem 10

Hiding a Dagger Behind a Smile

笑里藏刀

Maintain friendly relations while secretly preparing to strike. Charm and trust-building mask your true hostile intentions.

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Stratagem 11

Sacrificing the Plum Tree for the Peach Tree

李代桃僵

Accept a minor loss to achieve a greater gain. Sacrifice something small to protect something more valuable.

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Stratagem 12

Leading Away a Sheep in Passing

顺手牵羊

Exploit small opportunities as they arise. Never pass up a minor gain even while pursuing a major objective.

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