Chapter 164: Entrust to the Immortal Master
Song You had a rough understanding of Sir Dou's approach.
“This painting is so extraordinary, and you've previously painted my portrait in the Grand Commander’s residence. How could you dare to entrust this painting, along with your life, to me?”
Sir Dou said respectfully with a deep bow, “As the saying goes, 'It’s easy to paint a person or a tiger, but hard to capture their bones; one may know a person’s face, but not their heart.' If you want to portray the essence and spirit, you must first learn to observe people before painting them, and learn to observe tigers before painting tigers.
“Although I lack my ancestor’s divine abilities, I have my own insights into observing and painting people. Although I have offended you, I have also come to know that you possess great virtues and cultivation skills, akin to the divine immortal. Your heart is calm, and your character is noble; I believe you wouldn’t covet this painting of mine.”
He paused for a moment before continuing, “Moreover, at this moment, countless people from the jianghu are searching for my whereabouts on Mount Beiqin. I am at my wit's end.
“If you truly desire this painting, it would be better to give it to you rather than handing it over to them, where it might be destroyed or collected by officials and nobles. Perhaps entrusting it to you is a better fate than keeping it in my hands.”
Upon hearing this, Song You revealed a smile, not out of joy but rather out of intrigue.
“This painting is indeed an unparalleled masterpiece and should be preserved properly for future generations,” the Daoist said. “Sir Dou, you and your family’s unique painting skills should also be passed down.”
“Will you agree to assist me, immortal master?”