Flash Gordon 35-05-04 (02) Befriends Lion Men and Stops a Wedding
Harold's Old Time Radio
Release Date: May 6, 2025

I. Introduction and Recap

The episode picks up immediately following the thrilling events of the previous installment. Last week, Flash Gordon and Dale Arden heroically averted Earth's destruction by diverting a threatening planet with a rocket strike. However, their victory led to unforeseen consequences as they found themselves stranded on the planet Mongol. Emperor Ming the Merciless intensified his pursuit by ordering Flash’s death and demanding Dale’s marriage, only to be thwarted by the timely intervention of the royal princess and the Prince of the Lion Men.

II. Main Plot

A. Capture by the Shark Men

As the episode unfolds, Flash and Dale are unexpectedly captured by the formidable Shark Men of Mongol. The tension escalates when Princess Aura makes a dramatic entrance, once again saving Flash from peril. In an attempt to free Dale, Flash's efforts inadvertently result in both him and Dale being ensnared by the menacing leaves of a constrictor plant.

• Dale Arden (00:12): "Honey, the leaves are crushing me."
• Flash Gordon (00:14): "I'll cut them with my swords."

Despite Flash’s valiant attempts to free them, both are trapped, leading to a palpable sense of urgency and danger.

B. Introduction of Prince Baron

Enter Prince Baron, the leader of the Lion Men, who captures Flash and Dale. In a surprising twist, he reveals a connection to Dr. Zharkov, Flash's trusted ally.

• Prince Baron (02:08): "Yes, I know your father."
• Flash Gordon (04:53): "We saved the earth, didn't we, lad?"

Prince Baron proposes an alliance to overthrow Ming the Merciless, leveraging an electric mole he has invented to infiltrate Ming’s palace.

C. Infiltrating Ming’s Palace

The trio—Prince Baron, Dr. Zharkov, and Flash—embark on their mission to dethrone Ming. Their journey is fraught with challenges, including a fierce encounter with a Graco, an armored dragon-like creature. Flash's bravery shines as he defeats the Graco, ensuring the group's safe passage.

• Prince Baron (06:16): "If we succeed, Flash, you'll be made a prince of Mongol."

Their electric mole successfully penetrates the central hall of Ming’s palace, marking a critical advancement in their plot to overthrow the tyrant.

D. Betrayal and the Torture Pit

Upon reaching Ming’s palace, betrayal strikes as they are ambushed by Ming’s inner guards. Flash and Prince Baron are forced into the Torture Pit, a deadly arena designed to break their spirits.

• Ming the Merciless (08:04): "Let them shoot."
• Prince Baron (09:14): "This is the test of the torture pit."

In a display of strategic prowess, Flash maneuvers Prince Baron into a vulnerable position, leading to a fierce battle between the two. The ensuing chaos allows them to momentarily escape the immediate threat.

E. Climactic Confrontation

Meanwhile, Ming proceeds with the forced marriage ceremony between himself and Dale. As the ceremony reaches its peak, Prince Baron and Flash disrupt the proceedings, revealing Ming’s deception and asserting their defiance.

• Prince Baron (12:00): "I thou forbid this marriage."
• Flash Gordon (13:04): "Never."

A pivotal showdown ensues, showcasing Flash's unwavering courage and Prince Baron's commitment to justice. The episode concludes with the protagonists narrowly escaping Ming's clutches, setting the stage for future confrontations.

III. Notable Quotes

• Flash Gordon (00:14): "I'll cut them with my swords." (00:14)
• Prince Baron (04:53): "We saved the earth, didn't we, lad?" (04:53)
• Prince Baron (06:16): "If we succeed, Flash, you'll be made a prince of Mongol." (06:16)
• Ming the Merciless (08:04): "Let them shoot." (08:04)
• Prince Baron (09:14): "This is the test of the torture pit." (09:14)
• Prince Baron (12:00): "I thou forbid this marriage." (12:00)
• Flash Gordon (13:04): "Never." (13:04)

These quotes highlight the intense emotions and pivotal moments that drive the narrative forward, underscoring the characters' resolve and the stakes at play.

IV. Conclusion

"Flash Gordon 35-05-04 (02) Befriends Lion Men and Stops a Wedding" delivers another action-packed chapter in the saga of Flash Gordon and Dale Arden. The episode masterfully combines elements of adventure, strategy, and heroism, deepening the characters' alliances and setting up significant conflicts for future episodes. As Flash and his allies continue their battle against Ming the Merciless, listeners are left eagerly anticipating the next installment of these interplanetary adventures.

Be sure to tune in next week to follow Flash Gordon and Dale Arden as they navigate their ongoing struggle against Ming and strive to protect Earth from impending doom.