...is how things like the Empire allow this to exist just outside? It's the equivalent of a high level mage sitting outside the Village or an Anti-paladin sitting outside the Tree. Why would Empire allow that spirit-knight or even Thrym exist just steps away? If anything, another entrance to the imperial city would be nice so annoying crap like this wouldn't exist.

Even if the road to the keep of righteousness was connected directly into the Imperial area it'd make it better for defenders and assaulters.