At the conclusion of Thor: The Dark World, Loki engineered a masterful deception, faking his own death before ultimately usurping the throne of Asgard by impersonating Odin.
Loki's apparent demise occurred during the climactic battle against the Dark Elves on Svartalfheim, where he seemingly sacrificed himself to save Thor from the formidable Kurse. This dramatic act, however, was part of a larger, meticulously crafted scheme. Loki has always delighted in cheating death and manipulating others into believing he is no longer among the living, a tactic he frequently employs to further his intricate plans.
His survival after the perceived fatal blow was achieved by plunging into one of the many hidden portals known to exist within Yggdrasil, the World Tree, which intricately connects the Nine Realms. This strategic use of the cosmic pathways allowed him to escape the clutches of death and put his final deception into motion.
Following his "resurrection," Loki discreetly returned to Asgard. Utilizing his unparalleled illusionary abilities, he confronted Odin, the Allfather. Through a combination of cunning and powerful magic, Loki managed to banish Odin from Asgard (whose fate was later fully revealed in Thor: Ragnarok) and subsequently assumed his form, taking his place on the throne. This left the realm of Asgard under his secret rule, unbeknownst to Thor and the rest of the Nine Realms, setting the stage for future events in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Key Deceptions and Outcomes:
- Faked Death: Loki appeared to sacrifice himself to save Thor from Algrim (Kurse) on Svartalfheim.
- Survival Method: He utilized his knowledge of the Nine Realms and the cosmic pathways of Yggdrasil, plunging into one of its many portals to escape apparent death.
- Usurpation: Using his mastery of illusion, Loki then impersonated Odin, effectively taking control of the Asgardian throne and secretly ruling the realm.
