The Once and Future King: Book 3, Chapter 42 Summary & Analysis

By the time Sir Meliagrance arrives at his castle with Guenever, he knows Lancelot will soon arrive. He decides the best thing to do is to blockade the castle so Lancelot will have to lay siege to it. However, the castle is in disorganized mayhem: people are trying to herd cattle in from the farmland; maids are fetching water in tubs and bringing it into the castle; and Sir Meliagrance is trying hurriedly to ready his guest chambers for Guenever.

Finally, as Guenever sits at the window dressing some of her knights' wounds, there is a clattering outside; coming towards the castle, riding a cart and pulling a mangled-looking horse behind, is Lancelot. Sir Meliagrance had him held up by archers (hence the mangled horse), but had not counted on Lancelot finding a cart. Lancelot storms up the drawbridge and through the gates before they can be closed. Meanwhile, Meliagrance has fled to Guenever and, kneeling, asks desperately for her forgiveness. She grants it. When Guenever sees Lancelot standing in the inner courtyard, and he sees her, it is as if the Grail quest and Elaine has never happened. They are lovers once more. Having forgiven Meliagrance, they decide to stay the night at his castle.