Chilperic II was supposed to be a mere tool in the hands of Ragenfrid, the mayor of the palace of Neustria, acclaimed in 714 in opposition to Theudoald, Pepin of Heristal's designated heir.

Chilperic is his own man, however: both a fighter and a leader, always at the forefront in battle at the head of his troops.

He and Ragenfrid together lead an army in 716 into Austrasia, now being warred over by Plectrude, on behalf of her grandson Theudoald, and Charles.

The Neustrians ally with another invading force under Radbod, King of the Frisians, and meet Charles in battle near Cologne, held by Plectrude.

Chilperic is victorious and Charles flees to the mountains of the Eifel.

The king and his mayor then turn to besiege their other rival in the city.

Plectrude acknowledges Chilperic as king, gives over the Austrasian treasury, and abandons her son's claim to the mayoralty.