21

In a flashback scene in the movie Thor, we see Odin transforming Loki's appearance from that of a Frost Giant to that of an Asgardian (more here Why does Loki look like he does in the movies?). Moreover, in the same movie it is shown that Odin's spell is not immutable: Loki's appearance change back to his natural blue skin when a Frost Giant touched him and when Loki uses the Casket of Ancient Winters.

Odin changes Loki's appearance

In Loki episode 1, when Loki tries to use his powers in the TVA, Ravonna tells him

Magic powers? They are no good in the TVA.

implying that magic cannot be used in there. Moreover, later in the episode it is shown that even the Infinity Stones don't work in the TVA and, recalling that the Stones bend reality, time and space, they seem in a certain way "stronger" than Odin's enchantment.

So when Loki enters the TVA shouldn't his appearance revert back to that of a Frost Giant?

1 Answer 1

21

The implication appears to be that Odin didn't simply cast an illusion on Loki but actually transformed him. This appears to be on a deeper level than most magic we've seen and it wasn't just an illusion that was cast. See Marvel Studios Visual Dictionary for reference:

Split image from the book with the two relevant quotes quoted below
Click image to enlarge.

Blue Frost Giant skin transformed by Odin

Whenever Loki touches Frost Giants or their relics, he temporarily reverts back to his original form, with blue skin and red eyes.

On top of that this magic lasted past Odin's and Loki's deaths meaning that it wasn't spell that needed upkeep but rather a one time and you're done deal. The implication from the quote you mention from episode 1 is that you can't cast magic in the TVA. Presumably anything done before entering will still stick around.

You'll note that this seem very similar to the runes Agatha and Wanda cast in WandaVision, it might be that the TVA is guarded by runes. I guess we'll find out in the finale.

Agatha: These are runes, Wanda. Only the witch that cast the runes can use her magic.

WandaVision, Season 1 Episode 9, "The Series Finale"

4
  • "Only the witch that cast the runes can use her magic." Could this point to a variant-Odin being behind the TVA?
    – Hans Olo
    Jul 13, 2021 at 12:33
  • 2
    I'm betting we'll find out tomorrow, @HansOlo...
    – FreeMan
    Jul 13, 2021 at 16:04
  • Bringing Agatha into it just begs the question "How was she flying before noticing being surrounded by Runes?" Wile E. Coyote rules - a force doesn't exist until you measure it. Jul 13, 2021 at 16:57
  • @lucasbachmann I can work out a hand wavey explanation of the runes weren’t there initially plus maybe the spell let her hover until cancelled so didn’t need upholding plus Wanda could have been levitating her but who knows?
    – TheLethalCarrot
    Jul 13, 2021 at 16:59

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.