Combination of card Four of Pentacles and card Five of Swords
The Five of Swords and Four of Pentacles, both upright – like a bittersweet victory with an aftertaste of loss, followed by a lull. You've won the battle, but at what cost? Now it's time to gather your resources and recover your strength. These cards often appear for people who've been through an exhausting workplace conflict – when a project is finally complete, but the joy of success is clouded by burnout and disillusionment with colleagues or yourself.
Combination of reversed card Four of Pentacles and card Five of Swords
Five of Swords upright and Four of Pentacles reversed – a victory with nowhere to go. On one side – triumph, on the other – being unprepared to use it. Like a general who won a battle but feels lost in peacetime. This combination often shows up for people who receive a long-awaited promotion but are paralyzed by the fear of not handling new responsibilities.
Combination of card Four of Pentacles and reversed card Five of Swords
Five of Swords reversed and Four of Pentacles upright promise a respite after the storm. Conflicts are dying down, giving way to stability – albeit not the most vibrant kind. Like finding a quiet harbor after a tempest. This spread suggests making peace with the past and finding stability, even if temporary. After a relationship breakdown, a person finds comfort in their daily routine and material security.
Combination of reversed card Four of Pentacles and reversed card Five of Swords
Five of Swords reversed and Four of Pentacles reversed – a double blow to self-esteem. Internal conflicts are amplified by external instability. A sense of defeat blends with the inability to hold onto even what little you have. This combination often emerges during a crisis spanning multiple areas – work problems overlap with personal troubles, creating a perfect storm.