Disguises are Magical

4. 4. Nevertheless Odin had found by experience that nothing served
eager lovers more than a tough persistence, and although he had been
humiliated by two rebuffs he altered his looks a third time and
approached the king, claiming unparalleled competence in military
arts. It was not merely desire which had led him to take such trouble,
but a longing to eliminate his discredit. At one time gifted sorcerers
had the ability to change their aspect instantaneously and present
different images of themselves. They were expert at reproducing the
qualities as well as the normal appearance of any age group.
Consequently the old veteran would often give an admirable display
of his professional skills while riding proudly to combat in the thick of
the most courageous warriors. Despite this tribute the young woman
remained inflexible. The mind cannot easily move back to a genuine
regard for someone whom it has once heartily disliked.


- Gesta Danorum, Book III