Besides, Empress Fu was now dead, and the Empress's Position stood vacant. It was time to give serious thought to appointing an empress.
At this thought, Liu Xie looked at Lü Lingqi and suddenly asked, "My beloved consort, would you like to be empress?"
Lü Lingqi was wiping the drool from Liu Ying's mouth. At his words, she froze, and then a trace of panic appeared on her face.
"Y-Your Majesty, why do you suddenly ask?"
"I merely miss Noble Lady Zhen. I meant nothing else. Please do not misunderstand, Your Majesty..."
Lü Lingqi spoke somewhat nervously.
She thought her earlier words had given the Son of Heaven other ideas, making him think she was probing for something.
Besides, the empress had only recently passed away. How could they appoint another so soon?
That would inevitably invite criticism throughout the court and the country.
Liu Xie smiled faintly and said, "There is no need to be nervous, my beloved consort. I was merely asking in passing. Although the empress has passed away, the position cannot remain vacant forever."
"I imagine that within a few months, the court officials will petition me to appoint another empress. I must begin considering it in advance."
Only then did Lü Lingqi feel a little reassured. She said, "I have not borne an imperial prince. How could I become empress?"
"Besides, I am rough by nature and lack the ability to govern the six palaces. I believe Noble Lady Zhen is better suited to the Empress's Position than I am."
"Noble Lady Zhen comes from a distinguished family, is educated and sensible, and has a gentle disposition. Now that she has borne Your Majesty an imperial son, she is the best candidate for the position."
Lü Lingqi honestly expressed her thoughts.
She had no particular