Seven gates. Seven guards. He would have to defeat each and every one of them. Nergal had been warned not to get into hand-to-hand combat with those guards. That was never going to be an issue. He had his weapons and he had seven Sebitti. His warriors would handle the guards. He had a more important target to aim for.
The first guard at the first gate was not much of a challenge. Nergal quickly dispatched him and tore down the gate. He left the first of the Sebitti behind to guard their rear as he took the rest of his warriors to the second gate.
The second guard proved to be a bit more of a challenge, but was still no match for the war god’s skill. That gate was removed as well. Nergal left another warrior behind and continued.
Each guard at each gate was stronger and more skilled than the one before. By the time he reached the seventh and final challenge, Nergal was breathing hard and covered in sweat. He did not bother putting his sword away after the last of the gate guards fell. It had taken more effort than he had anticipated getting into Irkalla. He knew he was not finished fighting yet.
She would be in her throne room. Waiting for him. He would not keep her waiting any longer. The Beast of War tightened his grip on his sword and kicked the door to the throne room open.