It takes a lot of willpower to not jump in there to fight beside Zagreus. Like Thanatos had done before. Like he should be able to. Like he can't. Blood and darkness. What good is he on this damned train? Why risk destroying their world only to have him unable to do anything? His grip goes knuckle-white on his sword, and sorely ineffective Death floats above the barren ground.

Zagreus dashes from the gate, and the demons follow. It's the opening they hoped for. Thanatos's wings spread wide, and with a strong flap, ruffling night-sky feathers, he darts into the demon gate.

Instantly, he feels the demon realm press down upon every part of him. He pushes on. Faster. (He's too slow.) Confident. (He's not.) Divinity to be feared. (He's shackled in a larger box.)

How many demons will be inside guarding the keystone? Are they all outside, distracted by Zagreus?