In the area around Blackcrag Fortress, there is a guardpost with a band of Empire troops called the Third Empire Army. When you try to approach they say they're stationed there until ordered otherwise and won't let anyone pass. If you try to pass they send wave after wave of troops after you. Is there any way to get past them and into their compound? I can't find anything about it on any of the walkthroughs. I'm determined to access every part of this game and that's one area I haven't been able to figure out.
Also, while we're on the subject of Blackcrag, are you ever able to explore the whole castle? There is a huge map, and when you visit Empress Prazac, she won't let you anywhere but the throne room.