Final last update:
So MK support was awesome, I had the keyboards all packed to go back.
Just as I was about to drop them off, Jim from Varmilo emailed me directly, with the proper upgrade instructions.
If you can update firmware, and get the right guidance on settings, this keyboard will upgrade and work with Linux just fine.
So I am changing my rating to 4.
PS: I am keeping this keyboard, love it.

I work/develop in Linux 99% of the time.
Beautiful piece of art and solid keyboard mechanically.
DOES NOT WORK WITH LINUX, WINDOWS IS FINE
Reached out to Varmilo support, was sent a driver update, and it did not work.
Sending it back, I cannot do my job when the function keys do not work -- maybe I will try again in the future.

My first mechanical keyboard and I absolutely love it!
I was browsing around mechanicalkeyboards to satisfy my curiosity of mechanical keyboards and as soon as I first saw this design I fell in love. Got these in a cherry silent red since I wanted a more quiet keyboard and it's the perfect blend of a soft silent click, perfect for everyday typing & moderate gaming :')

Love it! It looks so beautiful, typing on it feels like swimming in the sea.