There were rumours Eudokia had already chosen a new emperor, to arrive on the last day of 1067 and receive the throne on the first of 1068. In the evening of December 31, Eudokia took Michael Psellos aside, and told him in tears that the empire was in grave difficulties from barbarian attacks. Psellos, unaware of the situation, suggested careful consideration before action. Eudokia replied that this was now redundant, as Romanos Diogenes was to be crowned. When Psellos still tried to delay advice, she demanded immediate support. He asked if Michael VII, the designated sole ruler, knew of this. She replied that he had a general idea, without knowing details, and asked Psellos to go up with her to his bedroom to explain the situation. They went upstairs, Psellos feeling very agitated. She sat on Michael's bed and told him to receive Romanos as a step-father but as a subject, not a ruler, as she had bound him in writing. Michael got up, went downstairs and greeted Romanos with no change of expression. Ioannes the kaisar too expressed concern for Michael but spoke about Romanos and joined the celebrations