Alexis Acquin is the son of Pierre Acquin and brother to Etienne, Benjamin, and Lise. He resides in France with his family, who run a gardening business. After their mother's death, their older sister Etienne becomes the primary caregiver, assuming a maternal role. Within this family structure, Alexis acts as "The Lancer" to Etienne, frequently assisting in maintaining order among the younger siblings, Benjamin and Lise, especially when Etienne is absent.

The Acquin family initially enjoys relative prosperity until a catastrophic blizzard destroys their greenhouse business. Facing financial ruin, Pierre Acquin takes out a loan in a desperate attempt to salvage their livelihood. His failure to repay the debt results in his imprisonment. This crisis forces the dissolution of the family; the children are separated and sent to live with various relatives. Alexis is sent to reside with his Uncle Gaspard.