The story starts on the 15th September 1066, with Herbert Karling sat in the study of his castle in Rethel, Vermandois, writing a letter addressed to Benoît of Laon, regarding claims the count has on the neighbouring county of Valois. Herbert calls for Adalbert de Quentin, whom he gives the job of delivering the letter. Meanwhile, Eudes is introduced - along with his mother Alix-Adèle. We see him breaking into the castle kitchens and feasting on sweetmeats, much to the disdain of his mother.