Truth in Fables: Major Arcana System for 5e

The Gods have many ways both subtle and overt to communicate their whims to their creation, be it visions, upheaval, or by plucking the gossamer strands of Fate and the Weave itself. Yet, one capricious demigod has taken matters into their own hands. Through guile, flattery, and incantations in tongues so old they were memories long before writing, this would-be deity has fashioned a powerful bridge between Gods and mortals.

Twenty-two cards were fashioned, each bearing an archetype of importance in creation. Through them, the Gods might reach out and touch upon the material plane without need of temples, clerics, or rites. However, knowledge, much like any magic, has a price. It falls to you whether or not to risk attracting the attention of a higher power that may not wish to be disturbed.

Do you seek answers from on high? A boon to aid you on your journey? An intervention in a desperate moment? This artifact can provide, though not always in the way you might expect.

The Deck of Fables awaits your selection. Choose wisely.

What is the "Truth in Fables" Deck?

This deck features 22 original illustrated cards depicting the Major Arcana from Tarot, with mechanics for use in any fantasy-based 5e TTRPG. Each card comes with three varieties of outcomes, depending on how the card is used in play.

FIRST TIER - PATHS: The card may be given to a character by their patron at the start of a quest, to aid them. The card will do everything from conveying an attribute bonus, to giving damage resistances or a once-per-day special ability. Once the quest is completed, the card vanishes and returns to the deck.

SECOND TIER - VISIONS: Those asking questions of the gods may pull from this deck, receiving imagery that must be deciphered, boons or punishment, or even simple yes or no responses depending on if the card is upright or reversed (upside down).

THIRD TIER - ALTERATIONS: Those in possession of the deck draw cards at their own risk. Each card has an effect on their immediate surroundings, but with every positive effect there is a negative response. Not even the GM is wholly safe from these cards in the hands of a player.

These cards are designed from illustration to game with a simple goal in mind: adding fun, variety, and maybe a touch of the chaotic to your game. This is also why I’m including effects that can target the GM. After all, they’re a player, too.

What's Included?

The Truth in Fables Effects PDF includes 66 various effects (three per card) broken up into three categories depending on how the GM chooses the deck to be utilized. The PDF also includes storytelling advice for visions from the gods, as well as additional helpful information to help incorporate the deck into your game or world, such as origin ideas and plot hooks.

The Cards PDF includes all 22 Major Arcana cards sized for home printers, as well as printing instructions and useful crafting tips for creating the deck at home.

Also includes the "Making of" PDF, exploring the process that brought this project to life.