Michael II had only been married for a short period when he lost his mind over a beautiful young woman called Gangrene. His fiery passion made him cast out his wife, Theodora, who was pregnant at the time. The poor woman was forced to live in the countryside for five years, surviving on wild greens and her unwavering faith in the power of God. Eventually she was taken in by a priest, who rallied many noblemen to her cause. They tortured Gangrene and forced Michael to come to his senses. The result was the happy reunion of the spouses. But Michael knew he had to demonstrate his repentance, so he built the beautiful monastery of Pantanassa.