Maridon

Maridon, officially the Barony of Maridon, is a city state that is part of the Archduchy of Mariborg and the Ischanor Empire. Maridon was founded in 1134. To the south, it borders Cìrion, while to the east and west, it shares borders with Lorenis. In 1194, the population census recorded 190,679 people, making it the second-largest city in the Archduchy of Maribor
== History ==
=== Early history ===
In 1130, Lorenis experienced a severe food crisis. There was a shortage of grain, vegetables, and fish. Some experts even speculated that fish might no longer be present in the rivers of the then Lisvar. During this time, fishermen began heading north to the Kingdom, which led to unexpected consequences. It turned out that fish had concentrated their habitats in the large rivers of northern Lisvar. This region quickly earned the reputation of being the best in terms of both the size and quality of the fish found there. These factors led to a massive migration of fishermen and their families to these areas. Among them was Nikolas Žemuntas, a minor nobleman raised in various noble courts. He had always been closely involved with port life and had often led maritime expeditions. Because of this, the Kingdom's authorities appointed him as the person responsible for establishing a fishing settlement that would bring together all the fishermen in the region. He was welcomed with enthusiasm, and at just 23 years old, he was chosen as the leader of the community.
=== City of Maridon ===
He, along with the fishermen, founded the city of Maridon. The name derives from the words "Marina," which in the local dialect means a fishing harbor, and "Dom," which means home. The Barony of Maridon was established in this area, and Lukas himself became the baron. The city focused on port industry and the export of fish to places like Cirion and Lorenin. However, with Lorenis concentrating on grain cultivation, the prices of fish in cities like Mariborg, Tarnogrod, and Maridon dropped. Despite this, Maridon continued to grow, becoming an important trading hub between the Ischanor Empire and northern countries on the continent. Yet, the continued marginalization led to many young people leaving for other cities in search of work and education.
=== Contacts with Beloslavia ===
Many of them chose Mariborg due to its size and excellent educational system. Through the influence of Maribog and the rapprochement with the religion that prevailed in it within 50 years, the number of adherents rose from just under 2.1% to 64.1%! In the following years, Maridon saw an influx of people from Maribor and Mozestava who sought to develop fish-related businesses and shipbuilding industries there. The growth of the Karolanian population was proportional to the decline in the Loreni population. Many Loreni migrated to the western bank of the river, settling in Lisguard or Lisvin. In Maridon itself, Loreni mostly held administrative positions. A large portion of the Loreni population moved to the western bank of the river, settling in Lisguard and Lisvin. In Maridon itself, Loreni mostly held administrative roles. The Karolans brought with them not only their families and wealth but also their expertise in fishing and customs. By 1194, Karolans made up 68.5% of Maridon's population. The growth of the Karolan population led to closer ties between Beloslavia and Maridon . In 1170, the Maridon City football club was founded, and its fans immediately established a lasting friendship with the supporters of Gvardia Mariborg. The club became the second football team in the history of Ischanor, debuting in the top league, the Abexilas Stownworks Football League, in 1180, in a match against Santos, the best team of the time. Maridon City won the match in a sensational 8-7 victory. The matches between Maridon City and Gvardia Mariborg became known as the Derbies of Ischanor and, since 1194, have been referred to as the Mariborg Derby. 
=== Annexation into Mariborg ===
However, in 1190, a crisis began in Lorenis, triggered by Cirion's departure from the Kingdom. Nikolas, concerned for the safety of his Barony and aware of the strong Karolan influence in his city, decided to meet with the authorities of Mariborg. During the gathering and discussions in Mozestava, the capital of Beloslavia, crucial decisions were made. In the so-called December Treaty, the most important agreements were signed. As of December 25, 1194, the Barony of Maridon became an integral part of the Archduchy of Mariborg. Mariborg committed to supporting the development of the new region and providing financial assistance. From that day, the Baron of Maridon would be a subject of Mariborg. 
== Economy ==
The fishing industry continues to play a significant role in Maridon. Fishing and port-related businesses, such as shipbuilding and repairs, account for 54% of the total employment in the Barony. Other industries include trade and grain cultivation. Charging fees for foreign ships using the river also generates substantial revenue. Maridon is home to many smaller businesses as well. The timber industry, including logging and the export of wood to other cities, also holds a share in the overall industrial sector. The tourism industry is growing increasingly important, mainly due to the promotion of Maridon and its vast rivers as an excellent place for leisure and relaxation.