The Puzzled Endgame Team

Thanos's doubts and wariness deepened. He grew certain that Russell was no ordinary cosmic powerhouse. He was either an ancient god who had lived for countless ages or a hidden being who controlled the fundamental laws of the universe.

"I stopped your fleet today and drew you out for one reason." A faint eagerness for battle touched Russell's lips. His voice was calm, yet filled with absolute confidence.

"I know where all Six Infinity Stones are, including the Soul Stone you've searched so hard for."

"My aim is simple. I'll wait for you to gather all six stones and reach your full power. Then I look forward to fighting you, at your peak, in a fair match."

It was a direct challenge and an open declaration of anticipation. He hid nothing and showed no fear.

In an age when the entire universe feared Thanos and the power of the Infinity Stones, Russell was the first person to wait willingly for Thanos to gather them and seek a fight with him.

Thanos's pupils contracted. His shock was beyond words.

He had waged war across the universe for ten thousand years. Others had always feared him, fled him, or submitted to him. Never had anyone dared face him like this, much less look forward to fighting him with all six stones.

Arrogant? Utterly.

But the strength Russell had just displayed gave him every right to be.

Thanos stared at Russell for a long moment before speaking in a low voice:

"What else do you want? You'd tell me where the Soul Stone is just to fight me? It can't be that simple."

"It is that simple," Russell said. Then he named his price.

"Of course. In exchange for telling you the Soul Stone's location, this Chitauri Fleet under your subordinates will be