Varos

Ancient Solar Deity; Patron of Sun Elves; the Dazzling One

Status: Replaced by Veladriel

Varos, male and female forms (art by victoria_fantasy_art)

The sun is the bestower of light to the totality of the cosmos. With his connection to enlightenment or illumination, Varos is a source of wisdom, inspiration, and brilliant new ideas. He embodies change and forward progress. Varos once sat at the head of Ilisara's pantheon as a benevolent justicar. He attempted to keep the peace between the other gods and strove always for the benefit of mortals. His qualities—sovereignty, power of beneficence, and change— were valued by many.

Varos created Sun Elves, the first race to live on Ilisara. Sun Elf Kings and Queens are said to be blessed by his divine power. Other creations of Varos include avians, dragons, and other winged beasts.

As befits a sun god, Varos' major festivals took place on solstices and equinoxes, and many ritual events occur on the cusp of a new season.

In some places, statues, shrines, and local tales describe Varos as male, particularly in the south. In the north, Varos is more frequently depicted as female. Both depictions are accurate. Varos is genderfluid and chooses to present as female or male based on what feels appropriate. In any form, Varos appears angelic with white feathered wings and glowing golden eyes set into an aristocratic elvish face. His skin is brown and tattooed with golden designs. Known to be attached to appearances, Varos' outfits frequently cycle through various styles and fashions. His most classic adornments are flowing robes and silks.