However, there was no reasoning with Silver Child. Her mind simply could not make that turn; the more they explained, the more confused she would probably become.
When Yun Ji turned back, she froze again. Shang Shuqing sat before the dressing table, touching the coiffure Niu Youdao had arranged for her, weeping silently.
"Alas!" Yun Ji sighed softly. She walked behind her, placed both hands on her shoulders, and spoke to her reflection in the mirror. "A face becoming beautiful or ugly could change his attitude so drastically. Are you happy, yet sad at the same time? Does it leave a bitter taste in your heart?"
Shang Shuqing shook her head. "Daoist Master is not someone who judges people by their appearance."
Yun Ji sighed. "Don't be foolish. You know perfectly well that his change in attitude came because your appearance changed. He is judging by looks. And that is precisely why you are upset, isn't it? You even suspect he is doing this for the hundred thousand Crow Generals, that he wants to placate you and use you, don't you?"
Shang Shuqing shook her head. "No."
Yun Ji said, "No? Then why are you crying? Everyone knows you like him, but he cannot bully people like this—especially us women. One thing is one thing. Yes, I admit he is capable, and this place really is his to command, but on this matter, I stand with you. There is no need to fear him. I refuse to believe he does not even listen to reason when so many people are watching."
Resting her head against Shang Shuqing's shoulder, she pointed at her reflection in the mirror. "County Princess, you are now as lovely as a flower and as fair as jade. You need not fear being unable to find a