 In December 1911, Hermogenes and Iliodor came into conflict with Rasputin, who chose a different strategy and had almost free access to the Imperial family.Hermogen started rumours that Rasputin had joined the Khlysty, an obscure Christian sect with strong Siberian roots.After having been beaten by Hermogen, in a monastery on Vasilyevsky Island, Rasputin complained to the Imperial couple.