Into the Riverlands by Nghi Vo (2021) Tor.com

An East Asian Canterbury Tale

Chih, cleric of Singing Hills and their birdlike companion, Almost Brilliant, go into the Riverlands, walking with other travelers, telling and listening to tales.  They have the fortune to travel with marshal arts masters, and the misfortune to need them.  Just when it seems their enemies are too many to overcome, and old man surprises everyone.

The Singing Hills Cycle is a joy to read, the stories within the story are wonderfully done, making for a quick and satisfying read.