The son of Guy d'Aydie and Marie de Foix-Candale, Ribérac enjoyed a highly prominent position among the nobility of south west France.

During the reign of Henri III he arrived at court and was among those favoured by the king, who financially supported his mother, afforded his clients offices and elevated to him a position in his household as gentilhomme ordinaire de la chambre.

During the famous Duel of the Mignons he fought as a second for Entraguet, favourite to Guise against Caylus, Maugiron and Livarot for the king.

[2] After his arrival at court, he took up residence on a street popular among the favourites of Henri in March 1578 rue Saint-Thomas-du-Louvre.

Present nearby was the future governor of lower Normandie François d'O and the king's valet Pierre du Halde.

This allowed him access to royal favour and he ensured Henri intervened to appoint a client of his as prior of Saint-Jacques de Mons.