accumulated significant military office as maître de camp for the French infantry, and in his absence, his regiments became violently disorderly. In Blois he entered a new dispute over a woman with the marquis de Pienne. During the duel that followed on 2 May, both men were killed. Early life and family Guy d'Arces was the son of Jean d'Arces, baron de Livarot with many holdings in Dauphiné, and Jeanne de Maugiron, sister of the magnate Laurent de Maugiron. Jean and Jeanne had married in 1544. Jean served as a lieutenant for Laurent de Maugiron. Guy d'Arces came from one of the oldest noble family in Dauphiné, with proof stretching back to 1160. He was cousins of another royal favourite, Louis de Maugiron. His uncle who had great influence at court, ensured that he was introduced there, and was an ally to his nephew in courtly matters. Established in the capital, Livarot took up residence on a street in which many servants and favourites of the king resided, that of La Plâtrière. On this same road, another royal favourite François d'O would rent lodgings. During his career he was elevated to the Ordre du Saint-Michel. Reign of Charles IX From 1573 to 1576, he led a company of men-at-arms that was under the authority of his uncle, serving in both the fourth and fifth civil wars with the company. In this capacity he served under Marshal Bellegarde during the failed Siege of Livron, from late 1574 to early 1575. Reign of Henri III Alençon Initially a member of Alençon's household, Livarot served as écuyer d'écurie to the young prince. Livarot was one of many men detached by the king to become a membeËr of his inner circle. Alongside Livarot as former favourites of Alençon were his cousin Louis de Maugiron, Henri de Saint-Sulpice and Gilles de Souvré. In 1577 the king elevated Livarot as one of his gentleman of the chamber. During this year he broke with Alençon, and was no longer a member of his household. Brother against brother With Alençon's return to court in early 1578, the situation in the capital between the king and his brother was explosive. Bussy and Caylus, ascendant favourites of their respective princes clashed repeatedly. Livarot for his part expressed his deep friendship for Caylus, and his willingness to follow his political lead. 'Duel of the Mignons' The situation became too much for