The Tarot Hierarchy:
The Tarot Hierarchy is an ancient organization that predates the War of the Tap. They served as watchful guardians over Althanas, protecting its people from the abuse of magic and supernatural forces. Legendary hunters, heroes, healers, and trade smiths have been guided by their invisible hand. Their legend became silent the day the Eternal Tap shattered and Raieara fell into ruin. For centuries, the Tarot was whispered in stories and tales, but remained lost to time.
Now, these chosen few have risen once more to restore order and protect the people of Althanas. With the appearance of several strong mages, The Forgotten Ones, and rumors spread of unexplained phenomena, Fate has called to the predestined members of the Tarot. Assembled by the first to heed the call, the enigmatic Leona Stevvains, these legends have reclaimed their ancient home within the revived Red Forest and work to rebuild the legacy of their ancestors.
What does the Tarot Hierarchy do?
The Tarot Hierarchy keeps three main goals. First and foremost, it strives to preserve the harmony of the world. The hierarchy is neither good, nor evil, but a tool of balance. Warriors of light and dark alike are welcome, and all play a vital role. Regardless of natural conflict or bias, the Tarot wields the tools necessary to handle any obstacle.
Secondly, the Hierarchy aims to understand the supernatural or magical. Relics of power, stories of legend, people of interest - the Tarot will seek them out, study them, and understand them. If necessary, they will move to influence these powers toward a needed purpose. Originally focused on the Eternal Tap, the emergence of new powers has broadened their focus.
The third and final goal is the discovery of its own. The Tarot is not a group formed by will or determination, but one forged by a necessary destiny. Its members are not recruited, they are chosen by the cards which mark them. Seeking out these chosen few is their final mission, to restore their order to the full force it once boasted and recover the relics left behind by their ancestors.
What are the roles of the Hierarchy?
The Hierarchy has a position for everyone. Some are not even aware of their affiliation until the time is right to have it revealed. Sometimes, these positions are vague and come into maturity over time. Often, only the suited officers of the King, Queen, Knight, and Page are aware of their affiliation to the Tarot and the commanding Major Arcana. Lesser Arcana are individuals of notice: growing seeds of potential. To facilitate this growth, there are four primary branches or “paths” for individuals to find their way to a higher calling. These are as follows:
“Swords”
These are men and women of the field. Agents of the Hierarchy that are given direction, purpose, and guidance toward necessary areas in need of a strong arm. Whether these be events of war, culling an outbreak, restoring ravaged lands, or protecting the masses, these agents of fate operate where needed. Normally scattered across the lands, a majority of these Lesser Arcana hold ranks within various military and mercenary groups, often overseen or influenced by a Major Arcana. Some of these include, The Risen, The Black-Walkers, The Bladesingers, The Skyknights, and even the Elven Rangers. Using the rouse of these mercenary groups, they seek those touched by the cards and enact the will of the Hierarchy.
Strongly Affiliated Majors:
- Strength
- The Tower
- The Chariot
- The Hanged Man
- Death
- Justice
Swords Deck:
| King - Jensen Ambrose |
Queen - |
|
| Knight - |
Page - |
Ten - |
| Nine - |
Eight - |
Seven - |
| Six - |
Five - |
Four - Leon Timyon |
| Three - |
Two - Lilidith Kaethar 'Lilith' |
Ace - |
“Pentacles”
They are men and women of commerce. The Pentacle, once used as a marking of craftsmanship, possession, or religious affiliation, these individuals who embody it are chosen for a similar purpose. They work with the hammer, the cloth, the scale, and the pen. Where money is to be made, these agents will be present. They provide insight, wares, and influence according to the hidden guidance of the Majors. Currently, the majority of these special few operate within a group publically known as “The Raiaeran Restoration of Commerce Coalition”, or “The RoC” for short. Their symbol of the mighty Roc can be found on their stands, wares, and tapestry. With a careful eye, one can spot the symbol of the pentacle nestled in the details of the feathers. Using the rouse of these merchants and tradesmen, they work to restore a broken nation, aiming to rebuild it into another Golden Age. Meanwhile, they quietly seek out relics in the hands of the public and fate-chosen individuals who walk their market streets.
Strongly Affiliated Majors:
- The Fool
- The Lovers
- The Wheel of Fortune
- The High Priestess
- The Magician
Pentacles Deck:
| King - |
Queen - |
|
| Knight - Fox Owen Xavier |
Page - |
Ten - |
| Nine - |
Eight - Logan McCloud |
Seven - |
| Six - |
Five - |
Four - |
| Three - |
Two - |
Ace - |
“Wands”
They are the men and women of exploration. Seekers of ruins lost and undiscovered. These agents of the Tarot brave the lands others dare not venture and explore places not on any map. They are comprised primarily of scholars, adventurers, and explorers. In many ways, these agents are seen as creators of “The New World”. They are secretly guided by the Majors to points of interest, mystery, or legend. Here, these intellectuals uncover unknown truths and contribute the the Tarot’s understanding of the powers that be. On their journeys, they will meet new people - some of which will be destined to walk the path of an Arcana.
Strongly Affiliated Majors:
- The Emperor
- The Empress
- The Hierophant
- The Star
- The Sun
- The Moon
Wands Deck:
| King - |
Queen - |
|
| Knight - |
Page - |
Ten - |
| Nine - |
Eight - |
Seven - Billy Corgyn |
| Six - |
Five |
Four - |
| Three - |
Two - |
Ace - Rayleigh Aston |
“Cups”
They are the men and women of skill. They are the teachers, advisors, masters, and tacticians. These are individuals of overflowing knowledge and guidance who use their specialized abilities to aid others in both good, and bad ways. Guided by their unknown superiors, these Lesser Arcana operate as a voice to the people. They create alliances, rivals, pupils, followers, and tales to regale in centuries to come. They are the core of the Tarot’s political reach, offering their expertise and influence to the masses. Some of which are important figureheads in the new Istien University while others are lone warriors and specialists of unmatched skill. As they operate, others of like minds are drawn to them - others who may bare the mark of the Tarot.
Strongly Affiliated Majors:
- The Devil
- Temperance
- The Hermit
- Judgement
- The World
Cups Deck:
| King - |
Queen - |
|
| Knight - Leaf |
Page - |
Ten - |
| Nine - Rehtul Orlouge |
Eight - |
Seven - |
| Six - |
Five - Stella Stern |
Four - |
| Three - |
Two - |
Ace - Madison Freebird |
The Major Arcana:
Major Agents of the Hierarchy, these twenty two (potentially twenty three) members carry out missions either solo, or with other Arcana members. They will often end up leading members of the other groups without realizing it. Operating at the highest levels of discretion, these members are the elite of the elite.
Upon being discovered as one of the Major Arcana, the card will bind itself to the chosen by one of two methods. The first is in the form of a mark or tattoo at a random place upon the body. The second is a more permanent and celestial mark where the card is burned into the soul. For the latter, a ritual is performed by the other attending Majors, and the chosen is bound to their card until death or excruciating forced removal.
It is considered the ultimate commitment, for the ritual involves one to be killed so that they may be reborn anew as one.
[CENTER]The Fool
(Un-numbered)
The Fool, while donning an unfortunate name, is responsible for recruitment and public relations for the Hierarchy. It is their job to sew seeds of distrust among enemies, and give moral support to allies. A very lucrative role, the Fool oversees all the trials put forth to earn several of the Major Arcana Ranks. OOCly, they should help guide newer members with tips and hints on how to become better writers while encouraging IC recruitment. They are considered the original, the beginning, and represent all that is new.
This position is not yet filled
The Magician
(I)
The Magician is the powerhouse of magic and arcane among the Hierarchy. They are a tapestry of knowledge to all things regarding the Tap and various other sources of magic. They not only use their powers to help locate the 'Tap Wellsprings' (that is, smaller fragments of the Eternal/Ethereal Tap), but also to discover new ways to use their powers for the good of the group. They lead overall research alongside other Major Arcana of similar affiliations. They are confident, creative, precise, and never fail to take initiative in dire times.
This position is currently filled by Oliver for his vast experience in the fields of magic.
The High Priestess
(II)
This is a role exclusively for a female or non-gender character. A close card to the Empress and responsible for maintaining group activity. In character, she helps those who are chosen to grow into their roles. She is one of the advisors to the leading three and is the voice of the Lesser Arcana. Many times, the Lesser Arcana, not knowing the identity of the Tarot or the Majors, see this person as a healer, a religious figure, or idol. To the Major Arcana, she is an advisor to their station. Should the Major Arcana begin to fall from grace, she will aim to enlighten them. In extreme situations, a High Priestess can revoke a Major Arcana of their position and demote them to a position within the Minor Arcana. The High Priestess is known for her wisdom, intuition, and uncanny ability to put others on the correct path.
This position is not yet filled.
The Empress
(III)
One of three people that make all of the final decisions in the Hierarchy. It is the goal of the Empress to make sure he has the power group’s interests at the front of her mind at all times. In order to gain such a position requires several trials set before them by the Judgement Card. The Empress is said to be the matriarch of the Hierarchy and represents health, beauty, and prosperity. Kind and motherly, yet firm, she is known to facilitate relationships and bonds between her members.
This position is filled by Alyssa Snow after enduring her trials upon Forral’s Fortress and her contributions in cleansing the Forgotten One, Pode.
The Emperor
(IV)
Like the Empress, but this role is filled by a male. He is the second member that makes all the calls for the Hierarchy, including the guild's alignment. This position is filled by a male and a male alone, and in order to gain such a position requires several trials set before them by the Judgement Card. The Emperor is said to be the epitome of masculinity and thus must embody strength and endurance. The proudest of the proud, the Emperor is often considered arrogant and bone headed.
This position is filled by Vincent Cain after numerous tests of fortitude in the face of adversity and his contributions in cleansing the corrupted Forgotten One, Pode.
The Hierophant
(V)
The most educated of the cards, The Hierophant must be quite studious in finding potential locations for lost artifacts and sources of magic energy. It is their job to keep up with lore and help inform members with information they wish to seek, ICly or OOCly. To be a Hierophant, one must be able to answer several questions ICly in a thread, a trial judged by the Fool and Judgement. They are charged with analyzing new relics and deciphering lost knowledge. They are often seen as a scribe or sage and serve a similar point of contact for the Lesser Arcana alongside The High Priestess.
This position is not yet filled.
The Lovers
(VI)
This position manifests in many unique ways. In some ways, it is the most versatile in its selection than any of the other Major Arcana. Lovers are not one, but two. This doesn’t mean two people must fill this slot, but it must be filled by two. The most common is two people bound by the chains of love. A person and their pet, someone with two personalities in one, even a person and an object can fill the role. Either way, the lovers are symbolic and inseparable. Together, they help to repair conflict, establish new bonds, and pair up members that will be compatible. They are keen at pointing out another’s wants and needs even when they are unaware themselves. They are excellent advisors, promoting teamwork and friendship. They embody the common traits associated with love: desire, union, connection and passion.
This position is not yet filled.
The Chariot
(VII)
One of the Hierarchy's front line fighters. The Chariot is unusually close to its affinity card, Strength, often forming strong rivalries or partnerships. The Chariot is known for their patience, endurance, and perseverance. They are incredibly resilient, and capable of withstanding the most brutal combat where most men would flee or perish. They are an unstoppable will, an unbreakable resolve, and guaranteed survivor. While they may not be the strongest, smartest, or fastest, they will never give up. Outside of combat, this member is seen as a point of advice for handling problems outside the realm of action. “Give me the Strength to change what I can, the Patience to endure what I cannot, and the Wisdom to know the difference.” Unique to the Chariot and Strength, these positions may be challenged for their right of station. Should a Lesser Arcana think they can defeat The Chariot in a test of endurance & will, they may usurp them for their rank, casting the former owner to a position of Lesser Arcana.
This position is not yet filled.
Strength
(VIII)
Another of the Hierarchy's front line fighters. Strength is unusually close to its affinity card, The Chariot, often forming strong rivalries or partnerships. Whilst this individual is mighty, it is not solely because of their physical strength, but their resolve. The Strength card does not hesitate at challenges, but plows through them to the finishing line. They do not falter against fear, they do not stagger in the strongest of winds. They are someone who understands the true meaning of strength and use it for the betterment of the world. They are kind and compassionate, holding themselves in balance. While they are most known for their might on the battlefield, they are also a figure of support when other members waver. Unique to the Chariot and Strength, these positions may be challenged for their right of station. Should a Lesser Arcana think they can defeat Strength in a test of might & resolve, they may usurp them for their rank, casting the former owner to a position of Lesser Arcana.
This position is occupied by redford.
The Hermit
(IX)
Separation and seclusion, The Hermit is an individual of introspection and self-reliance. They are independant and sometimes considered the wisest, especially with matters of uncertainty and doubt. While not always a combatant, some generations depict them as one man armies. They are not particular to working in groups and are often specialists of their trade. Their role to the other Major Arcana is vague. In some generations, the individual deemed The Hermit never graced the others with his presence, but was considered to be a silent hand in many important affairs. In other generations, they were almost as important as the Empress and Emperor in regard to their insight and perspective. Such a unique role is difficult to identify in potential candidates and as such, requires a close eye from Judgement, The Fool, The High Priestess, and The Hierophant.
This position is not yet filled.
The Wheel of Fortune
(X)
Another dynamic role over the generations, The Wheel of Fortune is seen as many possible manifestations. Often enigmatic, the individual best suited for the Wheel of Fortune is bright, lively, and energetic. In some generations, they were a warrior and messenger of unmatched agility. In another, they were an merchant versed and skilled in identifying relics considered lost or destroyed. As a versatile position, the Wheel is always considered a person of change, action, expansion, and growth. They are seen as vibrant and energetic, sometimes chaotic. The Wheel of Fortune is considered a role of endless possibilites.
This position is not yet filled.
Justice
(XI)
A combat heavy role, Justice is considered judge, jury, and executioner in the fields of conflict. As such, they are often sent into combat with the other Majors who strongly identify with battle. They are cold, calculating, factual, and ruthless. Justice is also a key role, bound to many other Major Arcana to assist them in their actions and keep them in line. Justice also serves the role of warden, interrogator, and watchman. They are a noble role, strong in their resolve almost to a flaw. Sometimes, Justice can be a role of great disaster, chaos, and sadness. As a role so cold and firmly guided by logic, emotions are cast aside or poorly translated. To the rest of the Major Arcana, Justice is one to be taken seriously at all times and often a “do or die” individual.
This position is not yet filled.
The Hanged Man
(XII)
Sometimes considered lazy, or disinterested, the Hanged man is a tricky role. They are often a figure of political involvement or espionage. Considered to be an individual of self-preservation by any means, they are known to retreat from battle or surrender just to live. However, the Hanged Man is not to be looked down upon. They have been known in past generations to be double, even triple agents of deceit. They avoid the limelight for a reason and it lets them move unhindered by watchful eyes. The hanged man is a position of intelligence, even if those who fill this role often seem overly casual, lacksadaisy, or disinterested. Almost as if everything were beyond them. The Hanged Man is also said to “live in the grey”.
This position is not yet filled.
Death
(XIII)
A bringer of its namesake, Death is a combat heavy role of the Major Arcana. When sent into the field with their brethren: Chariot, Strength, Tower, Justice, etc., nations can be cleansed of the living. Death is a bringer of change, loss, and renewal. Where buildings are turned to ashes, new life will rise from the char. Death is considered the “finisher”. They are sent in to clean up what remains or end what needs to be stopped. In past generations, they were seen as legendary assassins or scholars of the blade. Some even tell rumor them as merchants of death. For other Tarot Members, Death is either idolized or avoided. Fear is something of a knack for this role.
This position is not yet filled.
Temperance
(XIV)
One of two moral opposites, Temperance idealizes the aspects of harmony, peace, and balance. In past generations, they were the chef/cook for those within the hierarchy. In other times, a bartender, a maid, a healer, a martyr, or young child. Temperance represents transcendence to peace and serenity. This role serves heavily in political endeavors and troubles of the heart. Other members often seek out Temperance for guidance. Temperance is all that is good, and often a group favorite.
This position is not yet filled.
The Devil
(XV)
The second of moral opposites, The Devil idealizes sin, pessimism, destruction, and chaos. They are often associated with the trickster, the betrayer, the temptress, or the instigator. Many Major and Minor Arcana are wary of The Devil, but if there must be light, so must there be darkness. The Devil is the one who acts as a political medium to forces of chaos. They pave the way for paths the Tarot can opt to take when darker means are necessary. They seek to challenge the norm and enlighten the optimists to potential pitfalls. In past generations, they have been of demon decent, men/women of pleasure, or agents of coin/chance. While not often a group favorite, all people have a secret or desire to be exploited.
This position is not yet filled.
The Tower
(XVI)
In many ways, the Tower is seen as an opposite to Justice. The Tower is a combat heavy role and often associated with the berserker, the beast, or a force of nature. In the field, they leave nothing but destruction in their wake, both innocent and guilty. Unlike Justice, they are considered fiery, emotional, and often irrational. They act without all the facts and can be described as “punch now, ask later”. While not the most elegant, The Tower is often sought out for advice on combat and seen as a hero in the field. If it must be done, Tower will do it. They are often headstrong, egotistical, arrogant, and blunt. In meetings and sensitive situations, they will always be the one pressing to take action.
This position is not yet filled.
The Star
(XVII)
They are the guiding light in more ways than one. In past generations, they were seen as the seer of the future. They lead the other Major and Minor Arcana onward. No matter the generation, The Star was known for their trust, optimism, and goodwill. Always one to lend a hand, The Star helped pave the path onward. When searching for direction, new relics, or places of interest, The Star is the first to ask. They are adventurers at heart and a common friend to others.
This position is not yet filled.
The Moon
(XVIII)
The Moon is a role obsessed with the past. Always cautious to never repeat the failures, they are constantly looking back while moving forward. The Moon is keeper of records in a sense, since they tend to recall patterns which lead to darker times. Regardless, The Moon reminds the other Major and Minor Arcana how to improve from these errors. They are also seekers of lost information, relics, and old legends. They are the raiders of tombs and adventurers of the night. Often seen as somber, unusual, or apprehensive, the Moon is a romanticist and seeks to restore old ideas in their most utopian forms.
This position is not yet filled.
The Sun
(XIX)
The Sun Card is incredibly social. They are aspect of the now, and live as though each day were the last. The sun is vibrant, active, and positive. Sometimes naive, The Sun continues onward for the sake of experiencing the world. As such, they seek to share their jubilance with others. In past generations, The Sun was a great adventurer, a healer, or social icon. They act to ensure that those around them are able to enjoy the now as much as themselves. Whether this be by picking another up off their feet, coaxing them into public places, or making sure others are in peak health, The Sun seizes the day and makes it their own.
This position is not yet taken.
Judgment
(XX)
The Judgement card is the third and final member of the 'Big Three'. It is their job to steer the Emperor and Empress in the right direction, and be a general advisor to the lord and lady. It is Judgement’s goal to guide the guild in whichever direction the other two leaders wish to take it while keeping mind on the outcomes their actions may bring. Judgement is also charged with divining who may or may not be touched by the cards of fate. Often stoic, serious, and straightforward, Judgement is held in high regard by others. They are sometimes even seen as the primary contact, especially when the Empress and Emperor are in conflict.
This position is not yet filled
The World
(XXI)
REDACTED
Rules:
- To join the Tarot, you must first start off as one of the four (4) suits: Swords, Pentacles, Wands, or Cups.
- Based on activity and loyalty, you will be promoted by one or more of the approved Major Arcana, up to a Major Arcana yourself.
- We permit one primary character and one alternate character player, but only one of those may be a Major Arcana (Exception for "The Lovers")
- We discourage Major Arcana from being enrolled in any other Power Groups, but can make exceptions on a case by case basis.
- In the event of a Clan War, we ask characters of multiple affiliations to stand down and avoid participation.
- This Power Group is a close community of players, and we ask drama be kept to a minimum or handled with tact. Offenders may be subject to separation/demotion.
- The Tarot is a secretive group in character, we ask you keep this in mind as you play your role within the Hierarchy.
- Minor Arcana are not to know they are a part of this enigmatic group ICly unless informed of their affiliation by another member ICly.
- If you have any questions, please contact the members listed under the Emperor (Cards of Fate), the Empress (Alyssa Snow), or Judgement (Ioder).
- Lastly, have fun, stay active, and enjoy being a part of Althanas' Premier Power Group: The Tarot Hierarchy.
How to Join:
If you are interested in joining, please post a reply in this thread with the following information:
Character Name:
Alignment: (Good, Evil, Neutral, etc)
Link to Profile:
Preferred Starting Suit: (Swords, Pentacles, Wands, Cups)
Preferred Final Position: (Major Arcana, King of Cups, Knight of Swords, etc)
Reason for Joining:
Referred By: (If Applicable)
Once you have posted this, we will have someone complete an initiation thread with you to officially welcome you into the Power Group.
Thank you for your interest, and we look forward to having you on our team.
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