36+stratagems,+proximate+stratagems

Proximate stratagems
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25. Replace the beams with rotten timbers
 * **Quote:** ||
 * Disrupt the enemy's formations, interfere with their methods of operations, change the rules in which they are used to follow, go contrary to their standard training. In this way you remove the supporting pillar, the common link that makes a group of men an effective fighting force. ||

26. Point at the mulberry tree while cursing the locust tree
 * **Quote:** ||
 * To discipline, control, or warn others whose status or position excludes them from direct confrontation; use analogy and innuendo. Without directly naming names, those accused cannot retaliate without revealing their complicity. ||

27. Feign madness but keep your balance
 * **Quote:** ||
 * Hide behind the mask of a fool, a drunk, or a madman to create confusion about your intentions and motivations. Lure your opponent into underestimating your ability until, overconfident, he drops his guard. Then you may attack. ||

Lucius Junius Brutus feigned idiocy for many years while he secretly prepared to depose Lucius Tarquinius Superbus, the last King of Rome.

28. Remove the ladder when the enemy has ascended to the roof
 * **Quote:** ||
 * With baits and deceptions, lure your enemy into treacherous terrain. Then cut off his lines of communication and avenue of escape. To save himself, he must fight both your own forces and the elements of nature. ||

The Grande Armee was destroyed in the 1812 invasion of Russia by a combination of the Russian winter, a scorched earth strategy, and the Russian army. Napoleon had been spurred on by the prize of capturing Moscow and with it the defeat of Russia; however, all he found was a burnt out and empty city and his forces cut off in hostile terrain and weather with no supplies.

29. Deck the tree with false blossoms
 * **Quote:** ||
 * Tying silk blossoms on a dead tree gives the illusion that the tree is healthy. Through the use of artifice and disguise, make something of no value appear valuable; of no threat appear dangerous; of no use appear useful. ||

30. Make the host and the guest exchange roles
 * **Quote:** ||
 * Usurp leadership in a situation where you are normally subordinate. Infiltrate your target. ||