The Shattering Aftermath: What Happens After You Kill Heimdall?
The death of Heimdall, the all-seeing guardian of Asgard, is a pivotal moment in the narrative, rippling outwards to impact numerous characters and events. Immediately following Kratos’s fatal blow, the established order of the Norse realms begins to unravel, setting the stage for the cataclysmic Ragnarök. Heimdall’s demise is not merely a single death but a catalyst that triggers a cascade of consequential actions and emotional responses, ultimately altering the fate of gods and mortals alike.
The Immediate Consequences of Heimdall’s Demise
The most immediate consequence of Kratos killing Heimdall is the void left in Asgard’s defenses. Heimdall served as the eternal watchman, his senses capable of perceiving threats from afar. His death leaves Asgard vulnerable, without its early warning system that would have alerted them to the coming of Ragnarök. This is a critical loss that directly contributes to the downfall of the All-Father, Odin. Further, Heimdall’s death is a deeply personal blow to his family and allies, particularly Sif, who harbors intense hatred toward both Kratos and Atreus.
Atreus, conflicted by the events, believes he must return to Asgard to help Odin with the mask, not knowing the degree of chaos that his actions set into motion. He understands that Odin will soon realize that Kratos killed Heimdall. The idea that his return is to assist Odin is predicated on the very short time period between the death of Heimdall and the realization of Kratos’s involvement. This return sets a risky premise for Atreus, as he risks being viewed as complicit in his father’s action. Meanwhile, the Asgardians begin to feel the tremors of impending war, a war directly triggered by Heimdall’s murder.
The Long-Term Effects and Emotional Turmoil
Beyond the immediate logistical challenges, Heimdall’s death also acts as a trigger for deeper emotional reactions. Sif, filled with rage and grief over the death of her brother, seeks revenge, initially taking a group of Valkyries, Hrist and Mist, to arrest Atreus. This move, however, is stopped by Odin, who has his own plans. The emotional weight of his death also affects Thor, who relapses into alcohol abuse, highlighting the impact of loss and the growing sense of unease.
Moreover, Heimdall’s demise dramatically alters the course of Ragnarök. With the guardian gone, Kratos and his allies use the Gjallarhorn to initiate the war against Asgard. The meticulously guarded gate between realms is now undefended, opening Asgard for an all-out assault. The death of the watchman is also a symbolic shift, representing a break from tradition and the ushering in of a new, more volatile era. In essence, Heimdall’s death serves to dismantle the existing power structures and set the stage for the epic conflict.
In summary, the consequences of killing Heimdall are far-reaching, impacting not only the physical security of Asgard but also the emotional states of the gods and the flow of the impending battle. It’s a chain reaction where one single action dismantles the old order, igniting a war, and shaping the destinies of many.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the role of Heimdall in Asgard?
Heimdall was the watchman of Asgard, stationed at the Bifröst bridge, where he was always on guard. His extraordinary senses allowed him to see and hear everything, making him an irreplaceable part of Asgard’s defense system. He is often referred to as the “shining god” and the whitest of the gods.
Is Heimdall the son of Odin?
Yes, in Norse mythology, Heimdall is the son of Odin, though he is not a son of Frigg. He is said to have nine mothers, but they remain unnamed in most sources. He is a vital member of the Aesir, the principal group of Norse gods.
Why does Kratos kill Heimdall?
Kratos kills Heimdall in a fit of anger and determination to protect his son, Atreus. Heimdall becomes an immediate threat, due to his precognitive abilities and disregard for Atreus, leading Kratos to act rashly. The final fight is an outcome of accumulated tensions.
How did Heimdall’s death impact the course of Ragnarök?
Heimdall’s death was a turning point for Ragnarök. It removed Asgard’s guardian and allowed Kratos and his allies to use the Gjallarhorn to signal the start of the war. The absence of Heimdall facilitated the assault on Asgard.
Where does Heimdall go after he dies?
According to Norse mythology, after death, Heimdall ascends to Valhalla, the afterlife reserved for warriors who die in battle. This is the same place where warriors like Mighty Thor end up after their death.
What is the Bifröst, and how is it related to Heimdall?
The Bifröst is the rainbow bridge connecting Asgard to the other realms. Heimdall is its guardian, standing at its entrance to protect Asgard from potential intruders. His role made him an integral part of Asgard’s security infrastructure.
Did Odin know that Kratos killed Heimdall?
Yes, Odin eventually figures out that Kratos was the one responsible for the death of Heimdall. Odin may allow the killing of Heimdall, but he uses this act of murder to escalate the war, and further his goals.
How does Sif react to Heimdall’s death?
Sif is overcome with rage and hatred towards both Kratos and Atreus after Heimdall’s death, blaming them for her brother’s demise. She initially seeks to punish Atreus but is stopped by Odin, who has his own plans.
What happens to Thor after Heimdall’s death?
Thor struggles with the loss of Heimdall and copes with the emotional fallout by turning back to alcohol, showing a sense of vulnerability and instability. His relationship to the event emphasizes that Heimdall was not merely a guard but a compatriot.
How does the death of Heimdall affect Atreus?
Atreus feels responsible for the situation and believes that his actions with his father have led to the death of Heimdall. Atreus, conflicted by his father’s actions, decides to return to Asgard to assist Odin, partly to try to fix what has happened, thus becoming a pawn in Odin’s game.
Who takes over Heimdall’s role as Guardian of the Bifrost?
After the death of Heimdall, and the reign of Loki as a false King, the role of the guardian of the Bifrost is taken by Skurge. This highlights the shift in power and chaos engulfing Asgard.
Was Heimdall blind in the God of War version of the story?
No, unlike some interpretations in other stories, the Heimdall in the God of War universe is not blind. Instead, he has extraordinary vision and hearing, making him the all-seeing guardian.
What is Heimdall’s weakness?
Despite his powerful senses, Heimdall’s weakness lies in his inability to tone them down. This hypersensitivity can be exploited, and his precognitive abilities can be blocked by magical spells.
Is Gna the hardest boss in God of War: Ragnarök?
Yes, Gna, the Valkyrie Queen, is generally considered the hardest boss to defeat in God of War: Ragnarök. Players typically need to be at max level with great gear to take her on.
Where does Atreus go after the events of Ragnarok?
After Ragnarok, Atreus travels to find out who he truly is. He ends up in Midgard where he reunites with Angrboda, where he states that he needs to tell his father of his visions of Giants.