Chapter 674: Female Sovereign’s Consort Selection 31

As soon as the mourning period ended, the matter that had been quietly held back for an entire year finally surfaced in court.

“Your Majesty,” an elderly minister stepped forward, bowing deeply, “now that the period of filial mourning has passed, it is time for Your Majesty to expand the harem and ensure the continuation of the royal lineage.”

The moment those words fell, the court seemed to stir to life.

Tang Wan’s lips twitched slightly, but she maintained her composure.

“I have only recently stabilized the court,” she replied calmly. “At present, my focus should remain on matters of state.”

“Your Majesty,” another minister immediately countered, “the matter of heirs is a matter of state.”

“Indeed! The stability of the empire depends on it. This subject proposes that the selection draft begin at once.”

“I second the proposal!”

Voices rose one after another, the ministers clearly united on this matter.

Seeing the tide turning, Tang Wan instinctively shifted her gaze toward General Lan.

Surely—

At least her would object.

But although General Lan’s expression darkened for a brief moment, she ultimately stepped forward.

“This minister agrees,” she said steadily. “Your Majesty has been on the throne for over a year, yet the harem remains empty. It is indeed time to make arrangements.”

The moment those words were spoken, the rest of the court visibly relaxed.

Even General Lan had agreed.

What objection could possibly remain?

—

Tang Wan, however, felt utterly speechless.

Isn’t that your own son standing in the palace? she thought bitterly.

They’re trying to push more people into his wife’s side, and not only do you not object—you’re supporting it?

For a moment, she truly had nothing to say.

In the end, she could only respond vaguely, “I will consider this matter further.”

Then she cast a glance at the female official beside her.

Understanding immediately, the official stepped forward and announced, “If there are no further matters, court is dismissed!”

With that, Tang Wan rose at once and strode toward the rear hall, her pace noticeably quicker than usual—as if escaping something.

—

Lan Xintong was already waiting.

Seeing her approach in such haste, he couldn’t help but ask softly, “Your Majesty… what happened?”

“Call me Wanwan,” Tang Wan corrected immediately.

Lan Xintong’s ears flushed faintly, but he nodded obediently.

“Wanwan.”

Tang Wan picked up a cup of tea, taking a sip before letting out a breath.

“They want me to take in a harem,” she said bluntly. “And the worst part? Your mother actually stood up and supported them.”

At her words, the faint smile on Lan Xintong’s face froze.

Only then did the reality truly settle in.

His wife…

Was the empress now.

It had already been over a year since her ascension, and yet the inner palace remained empty—save for him alone.

From any perspective—

This was abnormal.

Even as her consort, even as the one who stood closest to her—

It was, technically, his duty to advise her to take more consorts and ensure heirs.

That was what the world expected.

That was what tradition demanded.

But—

The thought alone made his chest tighten painfully.

He didn’t want that.

Not even a little.

For a moment, his vision blurred, and he had to blink rapidly to keep the tears from falling.

—

Tang Wan noticed immediately.

Without hesitation, she set down her cup and pulled him into her arms.

“Tongtong, don’t cry,” she said quickly, her voice soft but urgent. “You know I only have you in my heart. To me, everyone else is nothing. I don’t want anyone else—and I won’t look at anyone else.”

Lan Xintong couldn’t help it.

A small laugh escaped him through his emotions.

“My wife… what nonsense are you saying?” he murmured, though his voice trembled slightly. “As your consort, I should be the one persuading you…”

Even as he said it—

His heart resisted every word.

But before he could finish, Tang Wan’s expression darkened.

“What did you say?” she interrupted sharply. “You want to persuade me to take in a harem?”

Her eyes narrowed slightly.

“Lan Xintong, have I been too indulgent with you? That you would even think such things?”

Before he could react, she grabbed his sleeve and pulled him toward the side chamber.

Lan Xintong: “……”

There was no time to protest.

No time to explain.

—

Moments later, Tang Wan looked down at him, her expression fierce—but her eyes filled with something far more intense.

“Say it again,” she challenged. “Do you really want me to bring another man into the palace?”