User blog comment:Zelron/Soul Stealers in Solstheim (A modest review of The Elder Scrolls V: Dragonborn)/@comment-1786741-20121222030501/@comment-5020188-20121228224154

If Miraak had no connection between himself and the cultists, how did they know he was returning?

People are being mind controlled here! He would likely have "Discarded them" afterwards too. The cultists were ensuring that Miraaks plan continued. The temples could theoretically be draining power from the Earth to fuel Miraaks power and break him out of prison.

Again, Miraak is trying for UNLIMETED POWER and is stealing souls from you to become more powerful. This is leading to total dominion. You absorbing dragon souls is to power your shouts for good means, or atleast means of non- domination.

Miraak underestimated your abilities, which is why he banished you the first time. It is possible he only learned of you're involvement later, or used it as an excuse to avoid the wrath of HM.

Im implying that Miraak is a "Bad guy" and his characterisation is decent.