XV The Hanged Man ODIN hung upon the branches of Yggdrasil, the sacred Tree. For nine days and nine nights he suffered. Self wounded by his spear, sacrificed by his hand, an offering unto himself. In agony and torment he stared into the bottomless depths of Niflheim, searching the dark pool in silence. Finally, with great effort, he reached down before him. His hand was chilled to the bone in the ice cold waters. With a cry of triumph he grasped the knowledge he sought - the Sacred Runes, their magic and their power. He took the Runes and he used them well. He carved them upon the shaft of his spear; he carved runes upon all things. By this means he obtained power over all.