# Classic Top-Tier Stratagems: Examples of Open Schemes

1. **The Principle of Equal Division (Emperor Wu of Han)**: A decree stipulating that fiefs of feudal princes be divided equally among all sons, rather than inherited solely by the eldest son. Though princes clearly recognized this would weaken their power, they couldn't oppose it due to the "benevolence and filial piety" justification and their sons' conflicting interests. Ultimately, princely territories were gradually dismantled, and central authority triumphed without warfare.

2. **Relieving Zhao by Besieging Wei (Sun Bin)**: Instead of directly relieving Handan, he attacked Wei's capital, Daliang—attacking the enemy's vital territory to force them to rescue it. Though Wei's generals recognized this as a diversion tactic, they were compelled to withdraw troops to defend Daliang. They were ultimately exhausted and ambushed by Qi's forces.

3. **Controlling the Son of Heaven to Command the Princes (Cao Cao)**: By receiving the Han Emperor Xian and issuing decrees in the court's name, Cao Cao expanded power under imperial authority. Though princes recognized this as merely borrowing the emperor's name, they dared not openly resist due to the threat that "defying an imperial edict equals treason," and could only respond passively.

4. **Releasing Military Authority Over Wine (Zhao Kuangyin)**: A banquet where he candidly expressed concerns about generals holding military power, exchanging wealth for their relinquished authority. Though generals understood they would lose power, they voluntarily surrendered it due to the risk of "killing the dog after the hunt" and the security offered, peacefully consolidating power.

5. **Two Peaches Kill Three Warriors (Yan Ying)**: Using "the peaches go to those with the greatest merit" as bait to incite disputes over credit among three warriors. Though they recognized it as a trap, their competitive psychology regarding honor and scarce resources led them to shame and suicide—commanding hearts without warfare.