Mysteries of the Arcana

Webcomic about multiple fantasy universes connected to ours, each designated by one of the cards in the traditional Tarot deck. Follows a depressed Action Girl from Earth, her elf-like Dreamwalker friend Chrystalline, and Chrys's jackal-headed ex-boyfriend, William as they carry out missions for the mysterious owner of the Inn they all live in.

"Mysteries of the Arcana's genesis began back in the days of 2400 baud modems and dial-up bulletin board services as a roleplaying exercise. From that humble beginning it grew and meshed with J's interest in the tarot. At first, Arcana told the story of Chrystalline's father but, in time, the story became about Chrys and, finally, Chrys and Theresa."

Written by J Gray. Originally drawn by Keith W, then by Sarrah, then by Jessica "Senshuu/Miluette" Cantlope, and now by Gennifer Bonc.

Ambitious in number of characters and settings and plot points, and therefore somewhat slow-moving.

You can read the archives here.


 * Action Girl: Theresa. Fighter William nicknames her "Man-Woman."
 * Art Evolution: By Keith, the original artist, then by his three successors.
 * Berserk Button: Theresa. "Unless it's to save my life, DON'T EVER TOUCH ME!" Chrys.
 * Collection Sidequest: Story arc three, Two by Two.
 * Druid: Chrystalline.
 * Gayngst: Theresa.
 * Heroic BSOD: Theresa.
 * Humanity Ensues: William's origin.
 * Attack Its Weak Point: Theresa's super-power.
 * Tarot Motifs: A prime example. Each universe is represented by a card. Even the page frames are Tarot cards.
 * Stoic Woobie: Theresa, as shown over and over again in the first few chapters.
 * Parental Abandonment: Theresa's parents. Chrys's father.
 * The Chessmaster: Chrys's father.