The most likely scenario is "better to have none than something inferior." For the Emperor of Great Tang, it's most important to ensure the quota is secured.
"Look, that's the Princely Heir of the War King Mansion in the northern region!"
"Quick, look there—that name, Yan Liu! It's actually Yan Liu! It's said Yan Liu was the courtesan queen of the last brothel in Great Tang before His Majesty outlawed such establishments. After the ban, Yan Liu disappeared without a trace. Who would have thought she's now emerged as a strong contender!"
