The Golden Bird

Three princes take turns trying to find out who is stealing golden apples from their father's tree. The eldest and middle son fall asleep, but the youngest stays awake and sees a golden bird. He shoots an arrow at it, but only dislodges a single feather. The king sends his sons out one at a time to find the bird. The two older brothers disregard the advice of a friendly fox and fall under a spell, but the youngest is attentive and escapes the enchantment. The fox continues to help him find the bird, as well as a golden horse and a beautiful princess, even though he demonstrates a consistent inability to follow instructions. After an unpleasant brush with the now disenchanted brothers, the youngest prince and the princess live happily ever after and the fox is restored to human form.