Jerusalem’s native nobles focus on Melisende's popular cousin, Hugh II de Le Puiset, count of Jaffa, who is devotedly loyal to the Queen.

After Hugh’s own stepson accuses him of disloyalty, Fulk, in order to expose his rival, in 1134 accuses him of infidelity with Melisende.

Hugh rebels in protest, secures his position in Jaffa, and allies himself with the Muslims of Ascalon.

He is able to defeat the army set against him by Fulk, but the Patriarch of Jerusalem intercedes in the conflict, perhaps at Melisende's behest.

Fulk agree to peace and Hugh receives a lenient three-year exile from the kingdom.

When an assassination attempt is made against Hugh, Fulk or his supporters are commonly believed responsible, though direct proof is never offered.

The scandal provides the pretext for the queen's party to take over the government in what is effectively a palace coup, giving Melisende direct and unquestioned control over the government.