I like to think Mark's time was when most of the core area of the map were decided. Maybe not the nation, but in that time people firmly decided their homeland and wanted to hang onto it no matter the nation in charge.

Also the poor peasants. "Mark harrir the great folk hero has returned!"

Mark: "Huh what? oh uh yeah sure... can I have an ale? And a cow, medium rare please."

He is a hero sure, but he's not that wise old sage/santa claus that the myths make him.

EDIT: Also I just realized all the Wingman puns I can make! :O