The number 10 indicates that something is over but not finished and about to begin again - completion and perfection. The suit of Swords is associated with reason, thought, logic, will, courage, verbal skill, matters pertaining to the mind, communication and the element of air.  The 10 of Swords can be something of a harsh card, an experience which may help us move forward but leaves scars.  

"Reversed:  You have reached a point where you feel comfortable with your beliefs, attitudes and values.  This may lead to a lack of growth to stick with the belief system that you've already established and re-commit to it on a deeper level.  You could also choose to start over with a whole new set of  values.  For the moment, you may not clearly know what your choice will be so you're hesitating while you make up your mind." - Gail Fairfield.

The Dame Fortune 10 of Swords is certainly a different perspective on this card.  The woman seems to be trapped or protected behind those swords.  She also looks saddened by something and yet she grasps a sword in her arms.  In her hand there appears to be some kind of note.  I get the sense the note is from her knight lover who has left her; the sword a memento from him.  

The Experimental 10 of Air shows two faces (either laughing or screaming), floating out towards the edges of the card from the center.  It's a fairly disturbing image, something about it is very disquieting.  Looking at this image I am struck by the idea of a soul leaving the body and moving on to the next plane of existence.  Some souls might shriek in protest or fear while others laugh in joy and anticipation.

Ultimately that is the sense I take away from these cards - at some point we reach the end of one phase, the pinnacle of our achievements at this level.  Considering this card is connected with Air and the intellect, perhaps it is showing that we've reached the point where we can no longer learn anything new from our current situation.  There is a sense of sadness at needing to leave behind what we have acquired up to this point combined with a feeling of joy and anticipation at what lies ahead.  

For me, this card verifies what I really already know.  As much as I've enjoyed having the time off to finish my degree an depend time dealing with family situations, I'm beginning to stagnate a bit.  I need to "sharpen the saw" as it were.  It's time for me to explore strange new worlds and seek out new civilizations.