Sometimes The Old Comforts Are Best (narrative)
The reflection in the mirror had little changed over the centuries. Most days, Hel hardly thought about it unless she was preparing for a journey outside Niflheim. That was most days, and today was not one of them. Every once in a great while, she looked at her reflection in revulsion and self-pity, longing as she had when she was younger to just be normal. With a sigh of disgust directed at both her reflection and her attitude, she turned on her heel and headed out to the stables.
It had been a long time since she had taken Helhest out for a ride. She patted the neck of the three-legged Plague-Bringer, speaking soothingly to him. "What do you say boy? Want to take me for a ride?" Helhest's eyes blazed, one hoof pawing impatiently at the ground. "Right. Seems we are both of the same mindset."
She swung up onto his back, not even bothering to take the time to grab a saddle. She needed to fly, to leave all the old demons that haunted her mind behind. She grabbed a handful of his mane in her hands, and guided him out of the stall. Moments later, they tore out of Helheim, his hooves tearing up the ground as they galloped through Niflheim. She considered for a moment the idea of taking Helhest to Midgard; when was the last time they'd brought a good old-fashioned plague to mankind? But she knew it was her bitterness talking, and firmly put it out of her mind.
They flew through the misty darkness, neither of them concerned about finding their way. They both knew every inch of this world, and rode mostly on instinct. Soon the mist and cold began to work their magic on her mind, and the cold wind helped blow the last of her foul mood away. She threw her arms in the air, using her knees to keep her balance on the steed's back, and let out a yell of exhilaration.
Feeling more relaxed and in a far more pleasant mood, she leaned over Helhest's neck. "Okay, boy, time to go back. Feel free to take the long way." She might be feeling better, but she realized she was in no real hurry to get back.