The Mists of Avalon

Morgaine has arrived at Orkney, sick from her pregnancy. Morgaine is well taken care of by Morgause and enjoys time with her young nephew Gareth, who hopes to be a knight one day. However, she misses Avalon and has trouble eating and drinking.

Lot and Gareth discuss how Morgaine’s son will be the Duke of Cornwall, since Arthur returned Tintagel to Igraine. Morgause realizes that this places the child closer to the throne than their son, Gawaine. Suddenly, Morgaine goes into labor. As Morgause goes to help her, Lot tells her, “You are quick to bring our Gawaine’s rival into the world!” (243). He remarks that it might be best if she hopes that Morgaine’s son dies at birth.

Morgaine endures a difficult birth, and Morgause questions whether or not she will be able to survive. Morgause, who has a hint of the Sight, knows she is withholding information about the child’s father. She begins to weep, thinking that Morgaine may not survive the birth.

Finally, Morgaine gives birth to a son. As she naps peacefully, Morgause realizes she has the opportunity to kill the young boy but hesitates. If the child’s father is