Later, as he was going over a high mountain, he found a Wolf in a trap. The Wolf also said to him when he saw him, “For Heaven’s sake, be a brother to me and set me free. I will be your helper in time of need; only take out one of my hairs, and if you need my aid rub it a little.”
So the imperial Prince took the hair and set the Wolf free, and then went on his journey.
The third hoop dropped off: the cask fell asunder, and a dragon flew out
After a long time he met a man, to whom he said, “In the name of Heaven, brother, have you ever heard where the Dragon-emperor’s castle is?”
The man cheerfully told him, even to the very moment when he would best present himself there. The imperial Prince expressed his thanks, went straight on, and at last, nearly dead with fatigue, he arrived at the Dragon’s castle. He found his beloved one there, and both were overjoyed at the meeting.
Then they took counsel as to the best way to attempt a flight. They finally came to a decision, and, making ready with all despatch, they mounted their horses to flee. But they had hardly left the castle when the Dragon came riding home. He entered the castle, but the Empress was gone!
So he said to his horse, “What shall we do now? Shall we eat and drink comfortably, or shall we hasten after the fugitives?”
The horse replied, “Eat and drink; we shall soon overtake them. That is the least of your troubles.”