Description
A thief sneaks off with a handful of swords. It's no surprise that when it comes to swords, plots are sneaky and tricky, not direct like with Wands. Ther is definitely and air of “getting away with it.” Yet this is still a plan that requires creativity and steadfastness. The image also echoes us back to the five of swords (stolen swords) and "loss" along with what remains behind, and the two of swords (for choices).
This is the "Thief" card, and though it can be taken literally (protect yourself against theft), it usually means a different type of stealing. Being the intellect and communication, what might be stolen are ideas, something you've written, or even an internet password. The querent should be warned to be on their guard, especially against those who are trying to extract information from them.
In some cases, in fact, this card might be advising the querent that they have to be the thief. They need to be tricky, sneaky, even dishonest because, in some situations, honesty is not the best policy. Sometimes flattery, obfuscation, diplomacy or dissembling is necessary to get back what you know belongs to you.