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Dark Magic - Avoidance from the Mystic Islands Oracle 

Keywords: Bypass, Shortcut, Easy Way Out
Element: Air (Wind) 
Sigil Mantra: I shall face this issue head on.

Dark magic exists in every corner of the world and holds a particularly prominent presence in Javanese culture. It is not uncommon for individuals to seek out shamans or witches in pursuit of personal desires. However, the methods employed can often veer into harmful territory. Whether it's the use of sympathetic magic like santet, involving dolls to inflict pain; susuk, a glamour spell used to enhance one’s physical allure; or sirep, a sleeping enchantment cast on victims so their homes can be robbed—these practices share one clear aim: to manipulate, deceive, or harm others. While these types of magic are known, they are also widely discouraged, even by traditional practitioners.

This card appears today as a sign that you may be avoiding a challenge or uncomfortable truth. Perhaps you’ve been tempted to take the easy route—something that feels quicker, lighter, or more convenient. But shortcuts, no matter how tempting, often come at a cost. What might seem like an effortless solution now could cause ripple effects later, potentially harming others or leaving the core issue unresolved. The question to ask yourself today is this: “What am I avoiding—and why?”

The feather reminds you to stay light in your energy and clear in your intention, even when things get heavy. The balloon dog speaks to the idea of playfulness and surface-level solutions—quick fixes that might not last. And the tree grounds you with the reminder that true growth requires patience, time, and deep roots. Choose the path that strengthens your foundation, not one that simply distracts you from the work at hand.

JARAN KEPANG – Show of Strength from the Mystic Islands Oracle. 

Keywords: Power, Status, Aggression
Element: Earth
Sigil Mantra: I exude strength.

Tradition: Jaran Kepang, also known as Jathilan or Kuda Lumping in different regions of Java, is a traditional war dance performed with flat woven horses made of rattan. Though variations exist, the core of the performance remains the same: a display of military strength and dominance.

One version is said to symbolise the battles of the 15th-century Majapahit Kingdom. Another common portrayal sees dancers fall into trance states—believed to be spirit possession—during which they perform feats such as eating glass, walking on hot coals, or enduring whippings.

Often featured at weddings and national celebrations, Jaran Kepang is more than just entertainment; it is a bold demonstration of status. Only those of influence can afford such a display, reinforcing its deeply masculine and aggressive energy.

Wisdom of the Card: This card signals an assertive, masculine force—whether within or directed towards you. The individual or energy in question seeks control, possibly through intimidation or sheer presence. But remember: such shows of power are often smoke and mirrors. Don't be deceived by appearances.

Alternatively, this card may be urging you to channel your own strength. Sometimes, a bold stance is needed to claim your space and begin the journey towards your heart’s true desire.

Charms:

V – This letter may represent a person, place, or word of significance. It can also symbolise victory, valour, or a fork in the road—suggesting a decision point where strength must be chosen.

Y – Often a symbol of questioning or dual paths, Y asks “why” and urges you to examine motives—yours or others’. It may also point to the convergence of choices or relationships that demand clarity and boldness. Or maybe it implies a big fat YES.

Snake – The snake is a powerful emblem of transformation, stealth, and inner wisdom. It moves close to the earth, echoing the grounded nature of this card’s element. Here, the snake reminds you to trust your instincts, move with intention, and shed whatever skin no longer serves you. It’s also a symbol of hidden power—quiet, watchful, and capable of striking when the moment is right.

SRIKANDI - Defining Norms from the Mystic Islands Oracle 

Keywords: Proactive, Duality
Element: Water
Origin: Javanese Wayang version of the Mahabharata
Mantra: I refuse to live a life that is not my own.

Wisdom: SRIKANDI, the warrior born from the Pandawa side in the Bharata-Yudha war. Based on the Mahabharata, SRIKANDI was born a girl but transformed into a man with the help of a forest spirit. Standing as a testament to the duality of identity and the proactive strength needed to live one’s truth.

In the Wayang tradition, SRIKANDI is known as a tomboyish woman, a stand-out in a world where women are either witches or wives. She is a symbol of unwavering spirit—an archer and warrior defying the mold. Today, she is also a powerful symbol for the transgender community and for anyone who refuses to be boxed in by expectations.

The wisdom: It takes bravery to stand in your truth, especially when it goes against the grain. You may face moments of doubt—questioning your right to pursue your own path, worried about the world’s reactions. SRIKANDI calls you to persist. Remember: your life is yours alone. Each morning, the vision that greets you belongs to you.

If you live in a place where it is safe to walk your unique path, let nothing stop you. Let incremental victories be your fuel. Small wins accumulate, building a life of authenticity step by step.

The charms accompanying this card – remind us that defying the norms through love, peace, breath, and abundance – anchor you in compassion, harmony, presence, and the fullness of life itself. Let SRIKANDI guide you today: be proactive, embrace your duality, and refuse to live a life that is not your own.

Card of the Day: RANGDA – Slander from the Mystic Islands Oracle

Keywords: Revenge, Jealousy, Anger

Element: Fire

Sigil Mantra: I AM WORTHY

Origin: Bali and Java

The myth of Rangda is steeped in the darkness of betrayal and the ferocity of wrath. Rangda, the demonic manifestation of the feared witch Calon Arang, lived with her daughter, Ratna Mangali. Owing to her mother’s fearsome reputation, no one would marry Ratna, much to her mother’s dismay. In her anguish, Calon Arang turned to the goddess Durga, pleading for a curse to be laid upon the village, resulting in floods and pestilence.

The devastation soon reached King Erlangga, who tasked his sage, Mpu Bahula, with vanquishing the witch. Mpu Bahula devised a cunning scheme: he proposed marriage to Ratna, delighting Calon Arang, who promptly arranged a grand wedding feast. Whilst she slept, Mpu coaxed his bride to reveal the location of her mother’s spell book. Upon discovering its theft, Calon Arang realised the marriage had been nought but a ruse. Enraged, she prepared for battle. In the end, Mpu Bahula triumphed, and Calon Arang was vanquished.

Wisdom of the Card: If you have drawn the Rangda card today, heed this as a warning to be wary of those you trust. Someone may be speaking ill of you behind your back, seeking to tarnish your name. Now is the time to pause and consider the situation calmly, rather than responding in anger. Though it may feel as if the world has turned against you, resist the temptation to believe you have been abandoned. You hold the power to be your own voice of reason. If you have reacted in anger and added fuel to the fire, acknowledge this without self-recrimination. Forgive yourself for your missteps and find the resolve to rise above the turmoil.

The Charms: The letter S signifies the slanderous whispers that may be circulating around you, a gentle nudge to scrutinise your surroundings. 

The peace symbol reminds you of your inner calm and the necessity of finding a sanctuary within yourself, away from the flames of anger. 

Lastly, the doctor’s stethoscope with a heart speaks to the importance of compassion and self-care – listen to your heart’s steady beat, and trust that it will guide you to clarity and healing.

Breathe deeply, and remember: I AM WORTHY.

Card of the Day is Gang Leader from the Cowgirls and Alien Oracle.

Affirmation: I will prioritise myself and my own needs.

A single gunshot rings out across the desert. Her horse rears as smoke rises from her laser rifle. Her old boss lies in the dust, silent at last. The rest of the gang look on, startled but not surprised. It’s a cutthroat planet, and a change of leadership is long overdue. “Change of plans, girls—we’re going my way now,” she says, and the gang cheers as they mount their horses and follow their new leader across the plains.

The message here is that it’s not easy to climb to the top of an outlaw gang, this side of the Milky Way, but the gang leader is tired of following orders. With her cunning and determination, she’s decided to take matters into her own hands. This time, she’s putting herself and her aspirations first. It would be wise to stay out of her way.

Have you been spending too much time setting aside your own dreams to help others? Perhaps it’s time to start putting yourself first and taking the lead. It’s perfectly acceptable to say no sometimes and take time for yourself. After all, you won’t be of much help to anyone else if you’re feeling unfulfilled or incomplete. Now it’s your turn. So, fearless leader—your new outlaw gang is waiting for your orders. What’s it going to be?

Tip: Remember, every time you say yes to someone else, you’re also saying no to yourself. You only have a finite amount of time to achieve the things you want in life. Don’t feel guilty about prioritising yourself when you need to—you’ll be better prepared to help others if you take care of yourself first.

Charms Pulled: Butterfly and a hundred-dollar bill.The butterfly charm is a powerful symbol of transformation and growth. Just as the gang leader reclaims her power and rises from the dust, the butterfly speaks of your own ability to emerge renewed from challenging situations. It’s a reminder that prioritising yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential to your evolution. Trust in the process and embrace the changes that come with stepping into your own leadership.

The hundred-dollar bill charm is all about abundance and the confidence to claim what you’re worth. It speaks to the idea that when you start putting yourself first—like the gang leader—you create opportunities for wealth and success to flow into your life. By daring to go your own way, you invite the universe to reward your courage with material and spiritual abundance.

Together, these charms reinforce today’s message: prioritise yourself and watch as transformation and prosperity follow.

I’ve really enjoyed working with the cowgirl and alien oracle this week—it’s been such fun and something completely different. Tomorrow I'm excited to work with the Mystic Islands Oracle.

Side note: when I was doing my cards for the month of June (pulled in December last year), my affirmations for the month was: I deserve to say no to that which no longer serves me. Seems to tie in perfectly with today’s reading

Sadly I have had to unpublish the forum due to it getting over run by spam. 

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See you there! x