Romanos III, after distributing roga to senators (or before work began, according to Psellos) took a bath at Blachernai (or the Great Palace), with no unusual sign of sickness. He then swam in the plunge bath, and was met by some of his attendants. It is said that these were agents of Michael (IV), who held his head under water long enough to kill him, but sources do not agree and some express uncertainty. Romanos cried out for help, and was taken from the bath nearly dead. At this point the empress Zoe arrived, unattended and feigning grief, but soon left. Later, when informed of his death, she took control of affairs