This Legalist excerpt from Han Feizi‑Chapter 34.2 states the ruler is the focal point of interests. Rulers must conceal personal preferences and keep secrets, making independent decisions to avoid manipulation by crafty ministers.
Han Feizi tells Lord Jingguo planned walls for his fief Xue and barred all advisers. A man won audience with a risky three-word opening “Big sea fish”, using the fish-sea metaphor to prove Qi was his core backing. Persuaded, the lord canceled construction.