Deals and distrust

Thanos lounged in his opulent leather chair, his gaze fixed on the television screen as the news showcased Tony Stark's run-in with Ivan Vanko, better known as Whiplash, during the Monaco Grand Prix. The Mad Titan pondered over Tony's worsening Palladium poisoning, attributing his reckless behavior in Iron Man 2 to the poisonous element.

Suddenly, the elevator doors slid open, revealing the Maximoff siblings, Wanda and Pietro, clad in casual clothes. The Scarlet Witch donned blue pants and a red shirt, while Quicksilver wore grey pants and a black shirt. Thanos couldn't help but smirk as they stepped out, making a jest about their recent 'business trip.'

The siblings, slightly tickled by the Titan's mockery, began to recount their recent mission. Although Thanos had already received reports from his insiders, he enjoyed hearing the tale from the twins themselves. They spoke of striking a deal with Nick Fury, agreeing to become part of the "Avengers Initiative" in exchange for certain privileges and resources from SHIELD. The Maximoffs managed to secure some level of autonomy, ensuring they would not be forced into any mission they didn't deem necessary.

Despite their newfound connection to SHIELD, Wanda and Pietro expressed their frustration at being unable to intervene in countries ruled by tyrants who were not considered terrorists. The corruption sickened them, but there was little they could do for now.

As they concluded their report, Wanda inquired about Chloe's whereabouts, eager to see the young girl. Thanos informed her that Chloe was in the secret underground laboratory, prompting Wanda to rush towards the elevator. To her surprise, Pietro didn't follow, opting to stay with Thanos. Sensing her brother's intentions, Wanda nodded in understanding and disappeared behind the closing elevator doors.

Pietro approached Thanos, voicing his concerns about collaborating with SHIELD. "I still think it's a bad idea to team up with SHIELD," he said, eyebrows furrowed. To his surprise, Thanos agreed. "Yes, it is," the Mad Titan replied nonchalantly.

Pietro was momentarily stunned by the response, having expected Thanos to argue in favor of the partnership. "Wait, aren't you supposed to tell me that it's in our best interest?" he sputtered, imitating the Titan's deep voice. "That the future I saw would probably happen if we follow this road?"

Thanos regarded Pietro as if he were the embodiment of stupidity. He reminded the speedster that one didn't need to see the future to know that dealing with a government-affiliated organization like SHIELD was a bad idea. However, he reassured Pietro that if SHIELD sought to betray them or go to war, they'd be more than prepared. He even suggested that he might reveal his true identity in order to protect his interests.

The two continued discussing the possibility of SHIELD's betrayal, weighing the risks and potential outcomes. Eventually, Pietro departed, his expression as troubled as it usually was when he reviewed the company's accounts.

Unbeknownst to anyone but the Mad Titan, the ceiling above Thanos's office was home to a multitude of creatures. They lurked in the shadows, observing the comings and goings of the various people who entered and exited the room. However, their attention was primarily focused on the one individual they were genetically prompted to follow, obey, and protect: the Mad Titan, Thanos.