Independent priests...

[quantum_mechani]

So who exactly are they worshipping when you fight them in independent provinces? The previous pantocrator? Local gods lacking the ambition to pursue ultimate power?

[BigDaddy]

I assume they belong to ancient pagan faiths that had no power (they only get a morale bonus anyway). Maybe THEY are the independent pretender, it would explain their general uselessness in the combat and their bodyguards. Of course pretenders never get holy paths, but thats just getting in the way of the fantasy.

[Chazar]

Leftovers from Tartarians?