#I'm noticing on some level that this setup is using Gwen as a prop somewhat

[andalon-historian]

Book called "The Loves of Lancelot" that's in four parts:

1. Lancelot and Morgan, living at court as young people. They can keep up with each other mentally, socially, and have the same sense of humor; the few who notice, including Arthur, are very supportive. Morgan is jealous of Gwen, and tries to "win" Lance for herself, but Lance can't make the decision to leave Gwen and Morgan cuts it off.

2. Lancelot and Galehaut, living as soldiers during Arthur's conquests of Britain and the English. They are extremely codependent, and worship each other; most people are impressed Lancelot managed such a catch, and expect them to move away to live together in Gaul. Galehaut enables Lance and Gwen, playing wingman for them, and eventually he dies. Somehow. Haven't figured that part out.

3. Lancelot and Elaine, at court and in Astolat during the adventures. After the events of Lady of Shalott, Lancelot's touch miraculously resurrection her, and she worships Lance completely one-sidedly; the court begs Lance to go for the poor girl. She is completely oblivious to the Gwen situation, and eventually Lance cuts it off out of guilt.

4. Lancelot and Gawaine on the adventures of the Grail. They are long-time best friends, and know each other well, and slowly fall while isolated from court. Gawaine cities Lance and Gwen, and tries to be that person for Lance to stop him from going back-- and he keeps trying until Lance, after the boat ride with Galahad, goes back to Camelot.

The book ends as Lancelot has finally made a firm decision that he can't take back-- he kills his last lover's family, and he and Gwen ride away from Camelot as fast as his horse can take them, leaving behind-- for each other-- everything they are, and everything they know, and everyone else they love.