Tristan was born of King Rivalen of Leonois and Blancheflor. Since his birth tragedy seems to have been his lot — King Rivalen was killed in battle before his birth, and Blancheflor then died, leaving him to King Rivalen's servant Loire. Upon reaching adulthood Tristan entered the service and gained the trust of his maternal uncle, King Mark of Cornwall — a trust shattered by his love for his liege's betrothed, Iseult.He exiled himself in shame and is now under Artoria's undying service.