Based on the available information, the most likely answer is: C) used to direct runaway slaves to follow the spring migration of flying geese.
The image shows a quilt with a pattern of flying geese, a well-known symbol used in the Underground Railroad to signal the northward direction of escape and safety.
The story you mentioned is about quilts helping enslaved people escape, further supporting the connection to the Underground Railroad symbolism.
While other options like disguises or seeking shelter were also tactics used during escape, the specific pattern of flying geese on the quilt in the image most directly points to guidance for navigation.