Her alleged control over Hainault made her an attractive bride, but placed the county in a dangerous position.

[3][4] But still Richilde's husband Baldwin became ruling count of Hainaut jure uxoris and the two children she had with Herman were disinherited.

[5] Baldwin VI also obtained assurances from his brother Robert who gave his oath of homage and promised to protect his nephew.

[6] Almost immediately, Robert broke his oath and disputed Arnulf's right to Flanders.

William FitzOsbern of Normandy (who married her) also assisted her in the conflict, but likely with a very small contingent.

[8][9] However, her forces were defeated at the Battle of Cassel and William Fitzosbern was killed along with her oldest son, Arnulf.

[11][9] Richilde and her younger son, Baldwin II, retained Hainaut, and made subsequent unsuccessful attempts to recover Flanders.

They were the parents of: In 1071 Richilde married thirdly William FitzOsbern, 1st Earl of Hereford (c. 1025 – 1071).