Turns out I was right. New, black cloaked soldiers wielding crossbows, shields, and scythes abound in this new area, with small rooms to fight in and several ambushes I had some trouble getting through it.
Of course, Ashley also decided to get hit with a catapult, which did not help matters either.
Still, we are introduced to a new bad guy, a little prince type character who will definitely be on the receiving end of my shotgun at some point. (I hope)