How Do Thors Stories Reimagine Thor And Loki'S Relationship Post-Ragnarok?

Post-'Ragnarok' fics thrive on duality. Loki’s survival becomes a canvas for exploring what ‘family’ means when blood ties are all that’s left. I adore fics where they’re forced to share quarters on the refugee ship, arguing over rations like kids but also defending each other viciously. Some writers highlight Loki’s shapeshifting as a metaphor—he’ll mimic Thor’s mannerisms when grieving, or take Frigga’s form to comfort him. Others focus on Thor’s growth, showing him finally understanding Loki’s perspective. The best ones make their love terrifyingly unconditional, beyond reason or redemption.

the way writers explore their dynamic is fascinating. The movies left their relationship in this ambiguous space—loki's 'death' fake-out, Thor's grief-turned-relief, that uneasy alliance on the ship. Fanfiction dives deeper into the emotional wreckage. Some stories fixate on Loki's redemption arc, painting him as a reluctant hero who slowly earns Thor's trust through sacrifices. Others twist the knife by having Thor struggle with paranoia, waiting for the next betrayal even as Loki tries to change. My favorite trope is when they confront their childhood—flashbacks of Odin's favoritism, Frigga's secret lessons, all the unspoken wounds that shaped them. The best fics make their reconciliation messy, not a single tearful hug but a series of stumbles. There's this one AU where Loki survives Thanos but loses his magic, forcing them to rebuild without the usual tricks, and the raw vulnerability there kills me.

Another trend I love is fics that explore their cosmic roles post-'Ragnarok'. With Asgard gone, writers reimagine them as co-rulers of the refugee fleet, clashing over leadership styles. Thor’s blunt honesty versus Loki’s political maneuvering creates such delicious tension. Some even weave in Norse mythology parallels, like Loki becoming a reluctant guardian of the survivors, mirroring his mythological role as a chaotic but necessary force. The emotional weight comes from small moments—shared glances during council meetings, Loki mocking Thor’s speeches but secretly memorizing them. It’s those subtle nods to their bond that hit harder than any grand showdown.

I’m drawn to how post-'Ragnarok' stories rework Thor and Loki’s power balance. The movies gave us a softer Thor and a less murder-happy Loki, so fanfics often amplify that shift. I’ve seen countless versions where Loki uses his silver tongue to negotiate for Asgard’s refugees while Thor smashes threats—finally complementary instead of competing. What sticks with me are the quiet fics where Loki heals Thor’s PTSD from 'Infinity War', using illusions to replay happy memories or taking watch so Thor can sleep. There’s a recurring theme of tactile comfort too; Loki, who once flinched from touch, initiating shoulder bumps or fixing Thor’s cloak. Writers love to reverse their old dynamic—now it’s Loki dragging Thor back from reckless fights, echoing Thor’s past attempts to 'save' him. The irony is poetic.