“Thunder laughed, for that was exactly what he had hoped for. He instantly withdrew his storm from over the terrified village, and came close to the maiden who had made the rash promise.
“‘I shall come for you soon, Mink Maiden, to ask you to keep your word.’ With these words, Thunder flew away to the sky and disappeared through a hole.
“Soon again, the three maidens went to the woods for herbs and while two of them stopped to dig some roots, Mink Maiden went on alone. She saw a plant, rare and greatly desired by Lame Bull, and she pushed a way through the bushes to dig up the root. But when she reached the spot where it had been, she saw nothing.
“Suddenly, without sound or other sign, a handsome young chief stood where the plant had been. Mink Maiden was surprised, but when he spoke, saying, ‘I am waiting for you to be my bride—will you come with me?’ the maiden knew him.
“‘I am Thunder Chief, and am come to have you redeem your vow.’
“Mink Maiden saw that he was tall and handsome, and naturally brave. He smiled so kindly that she knew he was gentle. But she coyly asked, ‘What must I do to keep my word with you?’
“‘Be my wife. Come with me to reign over the Sky People, for I am their Chief.’ As he spoke he held forth his hands, and Mink Maiden placed her own confidently within his.
“He enfolded her closely in his cloak of winds, and springing up from the ground, carried her through the hole in the sky.
“When the two companions of Mink Maiden sought for her, she was not to be found anywhere. They ran to Lame Bull’s lodge to tell him of her disappearance, and the entire village turned out to seek her. Everywhere they sought her, for she was beloved by young and old alike, but she was not found nor did they hear what had happened to her.
“Then came a stranger to that village and asked for Lame Bull’s lodge. He was Medicine Crow Man, who had long desired Mink Maiden for a wife. He had heard of her disappearance and by making strong medicine had learned where she was.