Ferox Obscura

The Ferox Obscura is an ancient deck of divining cards rooted in the ancient, esoteric time prior to the Drakari Arrivum. Though quite popular among the Beastfolk, and believed to reflect ancient traditions and customs of the Celestials, the true origins of these cards are unknown. While it is possible to play games with the Obscura, most prefer a typical playing card deck for gambling and grifting.

It is considered good luck to never purchase an Obscura deck of your own, though some prefer to find them secondhand in markets and bazaars across the reach. A process, not dissimilar to magical item attunement, is followed upon finding or receiving an intact deck. During this time, one opens their mind to the possibility and promise of the old spirits of the world, connecting themselves with Kerebos’ ancient wells of arcanum, and forging a bond with the deck itself. They are considered prized possessions, as even a single missing card — of the entire 52-set — can sever the bond between reader and deck.

Symbolism and meaning can be found across every card, though there is no difference between a card drawn upright or reversed. Different readers may follow different protocols and spreads based on their needs.

The Obscura Major consists of 12 cards representing various concepts, symbolism, and sacred connections of the universe. They borrow heavily from the elements themselves and the guiding forces behind each of the primordial realms. Some argue that this added symbolism is a newer addition to the deeper meaning of the Ferox Obscura: aligning, at times, with the arrival of the Prime Dragon Hierarchy, and adding on their more modern teachings to an ancient practice.

The cards of the Obscura Major are the following:

I. BLOOM

CARD ART: A seedling sprout breaking from the ground.

Spring brings with it the birth of new things, the beginning of a cycle. The Bloom card represents the nascence of the seasons, with new beginnings underway. Traditional representations associate it with the concept of Growth at a rather changing pace, with the darkness turning to light in the blink of an eye, sudden change is in the horizon. When Wither & Bloom are drawn together, it predicts sudden and drastic change and irreversible course in an unexpected direction, often beyond one’s scope of control. These changes bring with them a new season of opportunity, though new blossoms seldom spout where they’re expected to. Prepare to make significant changes you might not initially believe in.

II. RESOLVE

CARD ART: Branches raise from the ground and vines wrap around them to form walls, the rising dawn in the horizon orange against dark green leaves in the foreground.

Preparations must be made for heightened emotional or physical tolls. Firm decision-making and specificity are required. Represents the primal force of War. When Resolve & Sacrifice are drawn together, it marks the beginning of a harrowing personal journey, one with high costs to be paid for whosoever undertakes it.

III. THE UNSEEN PATH

CARD ART: Here

Never settle for the choices before you without deliberation and careful thought. Spontaneity coupled with an open mind. Represents the primal force of Chaos. When The Unseen Path & The Reflecting Pool are drawn together, it requires an inner dialogue and a firm reevaluation of the path that one is already on.

IV. THE ARCHITECT

CARD ART: Here

Kindness, compassion, and a guiding hand is sometimes required. Seek the counsel of others who may be able to guide you through your journey. Represents the primal force of Light. When The Crown & The Architect are drawn together, a crossroads is at hand, with two opposing forces meeting in a way that is unsustainable to carry on together.

V. THE AEGIS

CARD ART:

New ideas are presented, and are better left ignored. Sturdy, steadfast determination and resistance to change. Represents the primal force of Peace. When The Aegis & The Blade are drawn together, it heralds conflict and sweeping change within the world, powers beyond one’s control, and the beginning of war.

VI. THE HUNT

CARD ART: A mass of swirling arms and bodies, arranged into an eldritch pose, all carrying weapons

Danger lurks around the corner, or displacement of the status quo is on the horizon. However, through unity, the ship may yet be steered. Represents the primal force of Death. When The Hunt & The Feast are drawn together, it speaks to a need for community or an end to isolation.

VII. THE FEAST

CARD ART: Here

Having found support, the spoils of one’s efforts can be reaped and shared. Excess, hedonism, and viscera may follow if hubris is not kept in check. Represents the primal force of Life. When The Hunt & The Feast are drawn together, it speaks to a need for community or an end to isolation.

VIII. THE BLADE

CARD ART: Here

Your ideas must be shared and spread, regardless of who wishes to hear them. Steady is the hand that forces change and disruption. Represents the primal force of War. When The Aegis & The Blade are drawn together, it heralds conflict and sweeping change within the world, powers beyond one’s control, and the beginning of war.

IX. THE CROWN

CARD ART: Here

Authority is unchallenged and all-knowing. Heavy is the head who shoulders the burden of such responsibility, sacrificing their own well-being for their wicked desires. Represents the primal force of Shadow. When The Crown & The Architect are drawn together, a crossroads is at hand, with two opposing forces meeting in a way that is unsustainable to carry on together.

X. THE REFLECTING POOL

CARD ART: Here

Look inward to achieve self-realization. Be aware of your decisions, even the unpopular ones, that brought you to this very place and time in history. Represents the primal force of Order. When The Unseen Path & The Reflecting Pool are drawn together, it requires an inner dialogue and a firm reevaluation of the path that one is already on.

XI. SACRIFICE

CARD ART: Here

Your own end is entirely within your control. An end to thought, feeling, and conflict. Martyrdom. End of selfish desires in pursuit of the greater good. Represents the primal force of Peace. When Resolve & Sacrifice are drawn together, it marks the beginning of a harrowing personal journey, one with high costs to be paid for whosoever undertakes it.

XII. WITHER

CARD ART: Dirt and mud and stone and bone, with roots spreading throughout the card.

A change in ideology or the death of a belief or fear. A new perspective. The circle of renewal. In the most serious and desperate of terms: returning to the earth that birthed you. Represents the primal force of Decay. When Wither & Bloom are drawn together, it predicts sudden and drastic change and irreversible course in an unexpected direction, often beyond one’s scope of control.

• Ace Through 8 of Frost (Diamonds)
• Ace Through 8 of Flame (Hearts)
• Ace Through 8 of Storm (Clubs)
• Ace Through 8 of Stone (Spades)
• Ace Thorugh 8 of Spirit (9/10 of all suits)