08/05/2026
Welcome back to the dark carnival of monsters, my ghoulies! Ready to see what monsters lie in the dark that carry your fortunes from the depth of their abode? Let the mayhem begin!
Card 1: THE ASTOUNDING LADY MAKHAIRA - Backstory
Among the carnival's various attractions is an "Oddities Show," which boasts performative acts that include a bearded lady, a wild boy raised by wolves, a snake charmer, a sword swallower, and a two-headed woman.
The Astounding Lady Makhaira, a member of the acrobatic theater and a death-defying sword swallower, bends herself into impossible shapes, slicing fruit with ease to test the blade's sting before swallowing the ornate, razor-sharp sword before an astonished audience.
Interpretation
Often, things do not go our way, which can be difficult for us to accept, but our refusal to do so can hinder our personal growth. This card means accepting something you have been struggling with, even if it is unpleasant (hard to swallow.) Doing so allows you to move on emotionally and find happiness and peace beyond the immediate. The sword swallower is also a contortionist, able to twist and bend into seemingly impossible shapes and posi-tions. If you have been bending over backward to accommodate others at the expense of yourself, this is your sign to stop. Your health and happiness are just as important as that of others, and it is ok to prioritize your own physical and mental well-being. If the things you are doing go unappreciated, then stop doing them.
Card 2: Sphinx - Backstory
In the same tent as the Kismet, One-Eyed Jack officiates the performance of the
Sphinx. This majestic creature has the body of a lion, the head of a beautiful woman, and atop its muscular shoulders, a pair of elegant wings.
When the Sphinx stretches her wings, they reach almost from one side of the tent to the other-and a smile forms on her feline face, revealing a row of sharp cat teeth.
When she speaks and moves, the enraptured audience is unsure what emotion they should feel: Fear and awe? Or confidence, wonder and freedom?
Interpretation
The Sphinx is a creature from Greek mythology. Legend stated that the creature was omniscient and wise and would often befuddle men with her riddles. The appearance of this card means that the answer to a great question/mystery or the solution to a current problem or ongoing issue will reveal itself soon. This card is neutral, meaning that it does not reveal whether the answer or solution will be positive, the one the reader wants, or negative, but merely indicates an impending conclusion.
Card 3: Ludas the Wag - Backstory
As you take in the sights and sounds of the carnival, a clown tumbles towards you. He honks a brass horn, dancing and kicking his feet in a goofy, charming performance.
To carnival-goers, he gives generously from an assortment of gifts that magically appear in his hands, bringing laughter and joy.
Interpretation
This card represents generosity and kind-ness, giving to others, and generosity towards ourselves. Be kind to others; the karma will be returned, a reminder to 'pay it forward: It also represents fun and joy and the need sometimes to stop, kick off our shoes and play. It is a reminder to be silly and laugh often, whether singing out loud or dancing like no one is watching, playing a game, or being creative, have fun. Life is meaningless without pleasure. Embrace your inner child.
Card 4: III of Claws - IN THE LIGHT: You've been nearly staked through
the heart, and you need to return to your native soil to restore and rejuvenate yourself. Giving yourself time for wounds to close is essential before you move ahead — if you don't do so, you can't fully heal. Process your sadness, accept the loss, and trust that you will once again rise to the occasion.
Card 5: Ace of Castles - IN THE LIGHT: Lightning strikes, sparking life
and generating the energy for invention. This Ace represents potential change, speaking specifically to the physical realm: a new career, a new health regimen, a new home, or new physical pursuits. If you've been considering an overhaul, this is your sign to go for it.
Card 6: IV of Claws - IN THE LIGHT: The IV of Claws finds you nearly
overloaded, blowing fuses and channeling stress. This card is a reminder to take a break. Restore your energy, recharge your circuits, and connect to a grounding force before everything goes up in flames.
I hope the carnival of monsters gave you the chill you were looking for! Until next time, scare ya later!
