Taking a defensive position usually means that there is something worth fighting for. The Seven of Wands suggests that something needs protecting. It is time to stand up and face all comers. The fiery energy of the Wands usually indicates that events are moving quickly, so there isn't time to think or overthink. This is a case of knowing what is right and moving to defend whatever or whoever is in need.

How are "victory" and "defeat" both keywords for this card? Swords are truth, and sometimes truth isn't always black and white. Such is the case here. There seems to be a victor, but at what cost? He seems to have made enemies, an action he may come to rue. The Five of Swords indicates that the whole situation is cloudy, and what might seem like the right action may not be. Try to see the whole picture and future consequences before going in for the "win."

Reversed: a Pyrrhic victory, dishonor

The Devil represents a behavior or situation that holds us in bondage. It is usually not something forced upon us but rather is completely our own choice. Likewise, no one else will take the chains off us. We put them there; we must take them off.