Chapter 651: Female Sovereign’s Consort Selection 8

Tang Wan’s gaze lingered on the wedding robe, her heart softening as she listened to Empress Feng’s words.

He had started preparing it when she was only twelve…

For a moment, something warm and unfamiliar stirred quietly in her chest.

“Father Emperor…” she said softly, her voice carrying a rare trace of emotion, “you’re truly too good to me.”

Empress Feng chuckled lightly, the sound gentle and indulgent.

“You are my only daughter,” he replied, his eyes filled with quiet affection. “If I am not good to you, then who should I be good to?”

As he spoke, he reached out and patted her head with a tenderness that felt both natural and deeply comforting.

“Come,” he added, his tone softening further. “Try it on.”

Tang Wan nodded immediately. “Alright!”

She lifted her arms obediently as attendants stepped forward to assist. Layer after layer of fine fabric settled over her shoulders, the intricate robe gradually taking shape upon her body.

The process was slow and meticulous.

Every fold, every fastening, every adjustment was handled with care, until at last the final layer fell perfectly into place.

When Tang Wan finally turned toward the bronze mirror, she couldn’t help but pause.

The reflection staring back at her was radiant.

The deep crimson robe hugged her form elegantly, the golden dragon embroidery shimmering with every subtle movement. It accentuated her noble bearing, lending her an air of dignity and brilliance that seemed almost unreal.

For a moment, even she was slightly stunned.

…She actually looked this good?

Her lips curved upward unconsciously, a spark of delight lighting her eyes.

“Little Cutie, hurry—take pictures!” she said excitedly in her mind. “This is practically a masterpiece!”

Little Cutie immediately activated its recording function, circling around her from every angle, capturing the scene with enthusiasm.

No matter the world, it seemed—

A love for beauty was something no one could resist.

Watching her reaction, the smile on Empress Feng’s face deepened. There was quiet satisfaction in his gaze.

She liked it.

That alone made all the effort worthwhile.

—

After she had admired herself to her heart’s content, Tang Wan reluctantly changed out of the wedding attire.

By then, the sky outside had begun to dim.

“It’s getting late,” Empress Feng said, his tone returning to its usual calm composure. “You should return.”

He paused briefly before adding, more seriously, “Although the Lan family’s son does not fit the conventional standard of beauty, since you have chosen him as your principal consort, you must treat him well.”

His gaze rested steadily on her.

“Even if you do not love him, you must still grant him the dignity and respect that his position deserves. Do you understand?”

Tang Wan nodded without hesitation, her expression obedient.

“Father Emperor can rest assured. I understand.”

“Good.” Empress Feng gave a small nod. “Then go.”

Tang Wan stepped back and bowed respectfully. “This daughter takes her leave.”

Only after receiving his acknowledgment did she turn and depart from Fengxiang Palace.

—

By the time she returned to her residence, news of the day’s events had already spread throughout the estate.

The servants and attendants were lined up neatly, their faces filled with excitement.

“Greetings, Your Highness!”

Their voices rang out in unison, brimming with joy.

After all, Tang Wan had not only selected her principal consort—she had also been named Crown Princess.

From this moment on, her future as the ruler of the empire was all but certain.

To them, this was nothing less than a momentous occasion.

Yet Tang Wan herself remained composed.

She raised a hand lightly, signaling for them to rise, and walked past without lingering.

Only after returning to her private chambers did her expression relax slightly.

Sitting down, she leaned back and closed her eyes briefly before speaking in her mind.

“Little Cutie, let me see what Lan Xintong is doing.”

—

At the same time, in the Lan residence…

The atmosphere was entirely different.

After returning home, General Lan dismissed formalities, her demeanor far more direct than in the palace.

“Xintong,” she began, her voice firm, “no matter the reason the Crown Princess chose you this time, it is a good thing for our Lan family.”

Her gaze was sharp, carrying both expectation and resolve.

“If she does not favor your appearance, then you need not dwell on it,” she continued. “When you enter the palace, you may bring along a few well-trained and presentable attendants to serve her.”

She paused, emphasizing her next words.

“All you need to do is secure your position as principal consort. Do you understand?”

In her heart, she had already made up her mind.

Her son’s appearance had always been a disadvantage. Even with their family’s status, few were willing to propose marriage. Now that the Crown Princess herself had chosen him, this was an opportunity that could not be wasted.

No matter what, she would ensure his position remained stable.

Lan Xintong lowered his gaze slightly and nodded. “I understand, Mother.”

His voice was calm, but his thoughts were far from settled.

He had always been aware of how others saw him.

Yet the words Tang Wan had spoken earlier… the way she had looked at him…

For a fleeting moment, he had almost believed her.

Almost.

But his mother’s words had brought him back to reality.

The Crown Princess would one day become empress. It was only natural for her to have multiple consorts. As the principal consort, it would be his duty to manage the inner court and ensure everything ran smoothly—including selecting suitable attendants for her.

And with his appearance…

Would she even be willing to touch him?

The thought settled heavily in his chest, leaving behind a faint, suffocating discomfort.

General Lan, noticing his silence, continued, “There is one more thing.”

Her expression grew serious.

“Your martial arts must never be revealed before the Crown Princess. Women do not like men who surpass them in strength. If she comes to dislike you because of it, it will do you no good.”

Lan Xintong’s fingers tightened slightly at his sides.

“I understand,” he replied, his tone subdued.

Seeing his restrained demeanor, General Lan couldn’t help but sigh softly.

“You…” she said, shaking her head faintly. “In front of the Crown Princess, you must not be so rigid. Women prefer men who are gentle, soft, and pleasing.”

Her words lingered in the air.

And yet, standing there, Lan Xintong could only lower his eyes further—unsure whether he could ever become that kind of person.