The Flute

Attending the banquet at neighboring Cassington Court, Val befriends Henry, the son of King Donovan. The boy seems fearful and filled with self-doubt. The king is proud of Henry, yet criticizes him and rules him with an iron fist. King Donovan is generous, and is known for his wisdom and peaceful rule, yet something mysterious underlies his perfect exterior. This mystery is further enhanced by the beautiful yet mournful sounds of a flute which Valiant hears playing at the castle at night, the origin of which is unknown, even to the king.

Val and Denys search for Henry to offer him a gift, and cannot find him. They go to his room and follow the strains of flute music they hear coming from afar. Led down a secret passageway, they discover Henry is the mysterious flute player. But he is bruised and disconsolate, and finally he confesses that he has routinely been beaten by his father.

Later, Val confronts King Donovan, but the king defends the nightmare of abuse committed against his son. Fearful of being beaten again because of the secret he has divulged, Henry flees into the stormy night. Henry's disappearance prompts the king to acknowledge the terrible error of his treatment of his son, and prays for Henry's return. Henry does return, unharmed, and the King and Prince begin a reconciliation of their relationship.

Prince Valiant, Arn, Rowanne, Merlin, King Arthur, Queen Guinevere, Sir Bryant, Sir Gawain, Lord Maldon, The Baron, King Donovan, Denys, Serving Woman