Tao Lang first adopted a pragmatic approach and would wait and see how Li Zong performed.

If it is beneficial to the Ming Dynasty, based on Li Zong's bloodline advantage, the Ming Dynasty can consider that this coup is not a revolution to change the surname, and not interfering will not be considered as failing to fulfill the obligations of the suzerain state.

Zhu Youxiao nodded, very satisfied with the speeches of his two confidants. He turned his gaze to Sun Chengzong and Su Zisu.

Sun Chengzong, having made up his mind, bowed and said, "Your Majesty, if we were to raise an army to punish the culprits, we would have to sail across thousands of miles, and the outcome would be unpredictable. Furthermore, it is beyond our capabilities to send troops so far afield. Unless absolutely necessary, I do not approve of raising an army to punish the culprits."

After a pause, Sun Chengzong added, "Besides, Li Zong's treason has not yet been proven, and the usual etiquette of the King has not been violated. A rash move would be without justification."

Now that the land route to Korea was cut off, it was impossible for the Dongjiang Army alone to both defend against the Jiannu and advance into Korea. Furthermore, transporting troops by sea was risky, with unpredictable success or failure.

Zhu Youxiao nodded and smiled to show his agreement.

Only Bi Zisu had not expressed his opinion, while the upright officials and censors in the Censorate attached the most importance to discipline, which was what Zhu Youxiao described as pedantic.

Bi Zisu sighed inwardly. If the Jiannu hadn't rebelled, what would a coup d'état have been? Unauthorized dethronement and enthronement without the approval of the suzerain state was a sure thing, and there was no doubt that the crime would be brought to justice in order to bolster the royal authority.

But to do so now would be disregarding the overall situation, and would be suspected of forcing Korea into the Later Jin camp, thus undermining the entire plan to pacify Liao.

"I think it's best to wait and see for now," Bi Zisu said, bowing. "There's no need to punish him for his unauthorized actions, which would lead him to take risks. Nor can we avoid giving him the honor of a title, which would allow him to play with it."

Zhu Youxiao let out a long sigh. The ministers' statements made him feel completely relieved.

Neither should we send troops to punish Li Zong and force him into opposition, nor should we hastily confer an imperial title on him, thus allowing him to easily gain legitimacy. It would not be too late to make a decision after we have a better understanding of the matter.

Moreover, this would maximize the benefits. It would prevent Li Zong from becoming arrogant and keep him submissive to the Ming Dynasty. It would also allow him to wait for a good price and gain more benefits from Joseon.