Forcefully split Darka back into North and South? Would certainly help mix up the dynamics of that bullet proof corner region again.
How about we take every region north of the CE/Tara border and drive them rogue. Every single one except for the cities. Now, Make one duke per city each leader of their own realm. Let the land grab begin. Once a region is taken, you gain claim to that region.
It'll work itself out in a few weeks.