Chapter 22: The Melody of White Feathers Garment

　　Yang Muzhi studied Zhou Changlin for a moment before offering a measured smile. “It’s a rare thing,” he said, “to meet a man so willing to lend a hand to strangers. A true mark of gallantry, if ever there was one.”　　He glanced at Liu, their acquaintance still fresh, then reached into his robe. “Not long ago, in a hidden chamber deep within the Mogao Caves, I stumbled upon something rather remarkable—a sheepskin scroll, its faded strokes tracing the very contours of Taihang Mountain. Since fate has seen fit to cross our paths, and you, Young Master Zhou, call those mountains home, it seems only right that this should belong to you. A small token of friendship—if you’ll have it.”　　The soldier beside Yang Muzhi muttered under his breath, “What if that painting is a treasure map? Giving it away so easily—it’s a terrible waste.”　　Yang Muzhi waved a hand dismissively and lowered his voice. “Don’t let greed cloud your judgment. A sheepskin painting of Taihang Mountain—it couldn’t find a more fitting owner than Young Master Zhou of Taihang Manor. The man saved our lives. What use is gold and silver if we don’t live to spend it?”　　Zhou Changlin turned to the soldier with a calm smile. “A gentleman does not covet what another cherishes. Since you are so fond of this painting, you should keep it. Taihang Manor stands for righteousness—we do not act in kindness expecting a reward.”　　Yang Muzhi hurriedly interjected, “Pay no heed to his nonsense, Young Master Zhou. His mind is forever set on gold and silver—he only wishes to keep it because he thinks it’s a treasure map! He knows nothing of art. Please, don’t refuse it. The painting itself holds no great value, save for the fact that it depicts Taihang Mountain. It belongs with you.”　　Seeing Yang’s sincerity, Zhou Changlin relented and accepted the sheepskin scroll.　　Yang Muzhi continued, “If your men intend to infiltrate the bandits’ camp and rescue Brother Liu’s friend, I would suggest a stealthier approach. Slip in under cover of night, when the