Genelun's betrayal of Roland and the ensuing trial for treason has its roots in the council of peers that Karl holds during the campaign against the Muslims in Spain. Marsilie has sent a delegation to the camp of the Franks, offering to convert to Christianity. Karl asks the barons to agree on a common policy. Genelun wants to accept the offer and go home, but other powerful men reject this approach. Both bishops, Turpin and Johann, are against it; Johann suggests sending a messenger to ascertain what Marsilie's real plans are. Roland immediately volunteers to go, but Karl refuses the offer, saying that he cannot do without Roland. Olivier and Bishop Turpin offer their services but are also turned down. Since he himself cannot go, Roland suggests his stepfather, Genelun. He praises the latter's reputation, good judgment, and ability to represent the empire.

Roland has sealed his fate with this speech. Genelun turns white and accuses Roland of trying to get him killed so that he can take Genelun's wealth and deprive Genelun's son Baldwin of his rightful inheritance. Genelun accuses Roland of a lack of fidelity to his half brother and says that Roland will suffer if he returns alive from the mission to the Muslims.