The affair between Zoe and Michael (IV) was known to everybody in the palace, except, apparently, Romanos III - though it was said that he accepted this great passion of Zoe's to avoid other minor infidelities (cf rumours about Konstantinos Artoklines, who would be removed from the palace by Michael IV). The lovers were caught sharing the same bed, causing Michael great embarassment, but boasting from Zoe. Her ardour was increased by a desire to conceive a child, unlikely in one of her age. She dressed him in golden imperial robes and insignia and they played at sitting on the throne. When an elderly courtier was scandalised by this, Zoe told him to attach himself to Michael, as he was already de facto emperor, and would soon become so de iure