I haven't encountered the AI yet, as the path to it is blocked. (I'm deliberately not using Astral Gates.) I'm looking for the Keymaster's tent.
It might be worth removing the Astral Gate spell, as it contradicts the idea of garrisons and outposts. Instead of searching for a key and breaking through a garrison, the player can easily move closer to the enemy's castle and occupy it while it's unguarded.
Let's continue playing...