The High Queen, Chapter 8 Summary

During the next summer, Arthur and his soldiers fight against the Saxons, and Arthur is wounded. Since he carries Excalibur, the wound does not bleed heavily, but it festers for months afterward. As the winter approaches, Arthur still lies in bed convalescing. Gwenhwyfar still feels the sting from her own miscarriage months before. This is not the first time she has miscarried. Now she feels guilty for it, as though it is her fault. Since she feels it might be punishment for her feelings towards Lancelet, she goes to confession to be absolved of the sin. The priest forgives her and lets her go unpunished.

After a day when Arthur is well enough to be out of bed, Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar both help put him in bed. The feelings between Lancelet and Gwenhwyfar are as strong as...