[1] As a legitimate member of the Capetian dynasty, he ranked in France as a prince du sang.

During his minority, his estates were administered by his brother in law, Louis of Joyeuse.

In 1487, Francis married Marie of Luxembourg, the elder daughter and principal heiress of Peter II of Luxembourg, Count of Saint-Pol and Soissons, and Margaret of Savoy.

[2][3] She brought great estates as her dowry, including the countships of Saint-Pol and Soissons in Picardy, as well as the Château de Condé.

His widow Marie administered the family's estates during Charles' minority.