Chapter 234: Thanos is confident in 1v1

He burst into that cosmic gateway, finding himself in an omnipresent chaotic space filled with erratic meteoroids flying in all directions.

It could be said that every moment, from all directions, a meteoroid of varying sizes would fly toward him. The large ones were as big as planets, while the small ones were like tiny pebbles. However, even the smallest pebble would be traveling at supersonic speeds.

A single moment of carelessness could result in severe injury.

In such a harsh environment, if he were alone, Thanos would have remained unscathed. However, five maniacs followed him in, hell-bent on killing him, attacking and besieging him relentlessly.

Six people in the same environment, facing the same peril, engaged in a fierce battle.

Moreover, the energy unleashed by the six demigods further destabilized the already unstable space. Several times, the battles nearly caused the space to collapse entirely. What would happen if it did, Thanos didn't know.

But he knew that none of them would escape unharmed.

Losing limbs would be the least of their worries.

In such circumstances, Thanos finally seized an opportunity to escape, though it cost him—a sword pierced through his chest. The sword's intended target was his head, but a giant meteoroid, traveling at light speed, collided with Wanda and her group, altering the sword's trajectory.

By dodging as best as he could, he avoided certain death.

After escaping, he used his memory to navigate by the star charts and coordinates he recalled, locating Sakaar, where he sought the Grandmaster's help.

Thanos knew well who the Grandmaster was and his character. It was no surprise to him that the Grandmaster accepted his request.

This, too, was part of Thanos's plan.

After washing up, Thanos donned the garments prepared by the maidservant, which, despite their loose and exquisite design, exuded an aura of ambition on him.

Topaz, showing little respect for the purple-skinned Thanos, led him to the top floor of the Grandmaster's tower, to the banquet hall specifically.

They did not exchange words on the way, only silence.

Upon reaching the top floor, the Grandmaster stood up from a chair behind a square table when he saw Thanos.

With open arms, he welcomed him, "Wow, welcome, our esteemed guest, Thanos."

"Thank you very much, Grandmaster."

Thanos displayed great humility. Though he inwardly scorned the Grandmaster, a genuine Celestial, he knew he needed help and had the skill to adapt his words to the situation.

"Ha ha, come, try the delicacies of Sakaar, all prepared just for you."

"Thank you very much."

Thanos politely responded before sitting opposite the Grandmaster. Under the service of maidservants, he arranged his utensils.

The two old schemers had a "pleasant" conversation over the meal, the atmosphere so harmonious one might mistake them for good friends.

Finally, as they were nearly done eating, Thanos spoke up, "Thank you very much for your hospitality, Grandmaster, and for accepting my request."

"I would like to offer you this gift."

With that, Thanos extended his right hand. A purple glow appeared, and between his fingers, the Power Stone slowly floated towards the Grandmaster.

The Grandmaster, with a look of admiration, took the Power Stone, examining it closely.

The Power Stone, one of the universe's most wondrous artifacts, seemed merely ornamental to the Grandmaster. Its high potential did little to enhance a Celestial of his level.

The Infinity Gauntlet might have been a different story.

After his performance, the Grandmaster shook his head and returned the Power Stone, saying with righteous conviction, "I cannot let my friend pay such a high price."

"The Power Stone is more important to you, Thanos."

"Grandmaster."

Thanos feigned surprise, seemingly moved by the Grandmaster's words, his expression showing gratitude.

"Ha ha, no need for that, my friend," the Grandmaster said with a satisfied gesture, knowing well that Thanos would not be moved by such a gesture. It was just an act for both of them.

Thanos waited patiently for the Grandmaster's real demand.

As expected, after a bit more theatrics, the Grandmaster laid out his conditions.

"I cannot fully protect you. The Asgardians are also formidable, and those three unknown figures could have powerful backers. I enjoy making friends and can help you, but the method must change."

Thanos nodded, signaling for the Grandmaster to continue.

Ignoring Thanos's thoughts, the Grandmaster continued, "I will create an arena. They want to kill you, and I believe you hate them equally."

"As a mediator, I will ensure fairness. In the arena, under a life-and-death contract, only one will walk out alive."

The Grandmaster added, "Witnessed by millions, if not tens of millions, of spectators."

Thanos appeared solemn but had anticipated this. Knowing the Grandmaster's nature, he sought him out precisely for this condition—the worst outcome being a life-and-death battle in the arena.

This did not intimidate Thanos.

But the best outcome could be much more favorable.