[Any resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental. Only the best story for Utsusemimaru's sick charge!]
It was indeed!
As Momoko and the dog continued on their journey, they came to what looked like an unclimbable mountain, its peak shrouded in fog.
"How can we ever get over this mountain?" the dog asked woefully.
But Momoko was not to be deterred. "I know we can find a way over the mountain," she reassured the dog. "Don't give up hope!"
Together they began the long climb. At the first plateau they came across a monkey lying half starved on the rock.
"Have you given up the climb, Monkey?" Momoko asked. The monkey shook his head.
"I know a short cut down the mountain, but I have not eaten in days and do not have the strength to move. You two are the only living things to have come so far since I climbed up here. I don't suppose you have any food with you?"
"As a matter of fact, we do! And we would be glad to share it if you would tell us your shortcut." Thus saying, Momoko took out the second of her millet cakes and gave it to the monkey. As soon as it ate the cake, it bounded up, revitalized once more.
"My life has been spared!" it cried. "I will not only show you the way down, but I will join you on your journey and share my strength just as you have shared your compassion, if you will have me."
"Of course!"
So the monkey led Momoko and the dog down through the clever tunnels and hidden crooks of the mountain, taking them to the other side before they knew it.