Meanings of empty scabbards in English

They are swarming naked among the empty scabbards and those still occupied by their inhabitants.

Then came the clatter of cavalry-therattle of horses' feet, and the ominous clank of empty scabbards against spur and buckle.

Some of the Dargonesti even had empty scabbards flapping at their sides, as there were not enough weapons to go around.

Caravan guards wandered among the aisles in copper helmets and knee-length tunics of quilted yellow cotton, empty scabbards swinging from their woven leather belts.