Savage Sword
Value: 3
Visions • Swans • Blades • Water
Meanings: War, savagery, strength, violence, brute force
The sword is a weapon of war, a metaphor for any kind of weapon one might wield. The Savage Sword is our basest nature, our predilection toward violence, and our shameful bloodlust. But it is also our strength to overcome obstacles and foes when we need to. It is the opposite of thought, strategy, or consideration. It is immediate and decisive, without hesitation or regard for consequence.
The Savage Sword is the opposite of the Revealing Knife in most respects.
Divination: Some kind of conflict is imminent. Almost certainly, blood will be shed. But this can go either way—it might be a danger to the person in question, or it might be a recommendation that they must use violence or brute force to succeed. This card turn can also indicate strength, or even a specific individual who is known for their physical prowess.
Game Narrative: A battle occurs. Someone is murdered. Something is destroyed. An NPC displays sudden and unexpected savagery and ruthlessness.
Joy: The PC has some sudden advantage in a physical trial or battle. The PC’s savagery is rewarded with success.
Despair: The PC or someone important to them is severely harmed by violence. A wound the PC suffers is far worse and more difficult to heal than first believed.
There was nothing that could stand before him when the savage sword was drawn.