Ranulf Flambard

Lord Justicar of England, King's Chaplain and Treasurer. Called by many "the manager of the entire kingdom."

Flambard was born the bastard son of a priest in Bayeux, Normandy and was educated as a clerk in the service of Bishop Odo of Bayuex but soon entered the service of King William the Conquer. An intelligent and handsome man, and an able administrator, he rose quickly within the court despite his low birth and lack of formal classical education. Under King William, Flambard was a well-placed clerk, even entrusted to hold the king's seal.

After the death of the Conquer, Flambard became a chief minister and highly placed counselor to King William Rufus. In the service of the king's greed, Flambard has raised ruinous taxes, stolen church revenue and looted the shrines of saints. His very byname - Flambard or "fire-brand" - is said to refer to his all consuming greed and ruthless cruelty.