Can you explain the pillars further? Are they smooth, fluted?

If the woman is indeed the Empress, she does hold a lotus in some versions of the cards. In the Thoth/Crowley specifically it is blue. She also is sometimes placed in front of pillars or an arch. This gate is referred to by Crowley as the "gates of heaven."

How are the scarabs shown to you? There is a very specific reason I am asking. Again I have strong identity with them as well. Ridiculously strong.

Is the woman ever near water?