Marius

Summary

The Jollyjoy is the god of festivity, gift, and celebrations. He was originally a mortal who prided himself on surprising others with gifts for special occasions such as their day of birth, when they first began working, when they moved residence, etc.

At some time during the Pre-History era, he was elevated to godly status by The Brightmother herself after he went without food for 100 days to feed everyone else in his town when they suffered a famine.

His name is the root of the common word Marriage as it is said he originated the idea of celebrating the union of love.

Role

The Jollyjoy aspires to celebrate that which should be celebrated and rewards those who deserve or need it. As a Mortal; it is said he was a kind and selfless man, and as a Deity - he chose to continue to reward individuals for reflecting the kind of people he once was.

Mortals not even faithful to him will refer to him with their ceremonies and practices across the planet. For example, a birthday party is a Mortal tradition first and a Marian one second.

Fortune Triad - Aspect of Surprise

Marius; a former Mortal, believes all people must be surprised to truly appreciate something.

”If it is expected, it is not appreciated” - Marius talking to the older Gods

As such, he has taken to balancing Mor’Thal by surprising Mortals with boons or blessings for their good deeds or for special occasions. Occasionally Clerics of his domain are surprised by sudden bursts of power to overcome significantly stronger obstacles than expected.

Marius is careful not to over-bless those faithful to him as to not come to expect his blessings. His followers believe he is teaching them a powerful lesson and preach his wise words to all who would hear.

Disciples, Faith, and Creations

Followers of The Jollyjoy are known as Marians and prescribe to The House of Marius. There are many churches across Mor’Thal with countless followers for Marius- with an especially large number in Ezzon.

Santa Claus

After many years as a Deity, Maris noticed a common trend of Mortal parents telling their children about a figure various names; Santa Claus, Jollygut, Whitebeard, who would keep watch over them for the entire year and only reward them with presents if they had been good the entire time. Seeing the convergent development of a common mythology develop and feeling the need to celebrate the end of a year more - he blessed one of his Paladins; Saint Nicharus, to become a lesser deity in the image of Santa Claus.

While the connection between the two is still close; Marius has let Santa Claus become his own Deity after seeing the special connection that children specifically have with the lesser Deity.

It is unclear if Marius understands the situation that Santa Claus is currently in.

Symbols and Iconography

Marius is commonly seen depicted holding 5 golden candles or a present bow. His holy symbol is typically either of these in gold or platinum. Most of his symbols are contained with a square housing to represent the presents he brings.