Unrak's plan works perfectly.
Once safe, "We must strike now while the iron is hot. I propose that at our earliest convenience, we annex Drelev in order to protect it. I furthermore propose that John take command of a field army in order to draw Armag's focus. With Terrion Numesti safe, and Drelev freed, we need only Tamary to seal the deal."
"Meanwhile, their economy is in shambles. I propose we spend some effort here helping them get back on their feet whilst we plan our next rescue."
As Taranis speaks, you turn over in you minds the strategic situation in the aftermath of the Baron's demise. Today is the [color=teal]20th of Desnus[/color], coincidentally the 4th anniversary of the founding of Varnhold. The usual petitioners will gather in Tatzylford (per the temporary relocation of court) for Sarenith's business of state in less than two weeks' time, though some slight delay in your return might be forgiven by your subjects, given the circumstances.
The Marchland Shields, under the nominal generalship of Unrak, are currently holding a defensive position on the western side of Wyvernstone Bridge. The Tatzylford Terrors remain garrisoned in Tatzylford. While Drelev's main force in Fort Drelev has disintegrated, his nominal ally Armag of the Tiger Lords has a sizeable army (and some hostages, including Tamary Numesti) somewhere in the hills northwest of the town. Some remnants of Drelev's own forces may also turn to banditry in the hinterlands, and could rally into a dangerous force once the shock of the Baron's death wears off.
And though the townsfolk in Fort Drelev are warming to the heroes from the east, attempting to annex the town prematurely could prove disastrous.
It takes just a day of travel across the plains to reach Wyvernstone Bridge. You are relieved to see that the Shields are still holding the bridge, and have even managed to replenish their numbers by recruiting a handful of Drelev's deserters.
John takes command of the Shields in a brief ceremony and promises to hold the bridge until your return, leaving you free to plan your westward excursion into the hills.