"So let me get this straight," Ren said, gesturing at the kneeling constructs. "I own these now?"

His companion—who still refused to give him a proper name—rubbed her temples. "Not own, exactly. The Ledger recognizes you as its keeper, which means the constructs are… bound to your command."

"Right. Sounds like ownership."

"It’s not that simple."

Ren turned to the nearest construct, a towering mass of stone and metal with glowing blue eyes. He cleared his throat. "Stand up."

The construct stood.

"Spin in a circle."

The construct spun.

Ren’s grin widened. "Oh, this is the best thing that’s ever happened to me."

His companion let out a deeply pained sigh. "I hate this. I hate you."

"That’s fair," Ren said, still watching his new minions with glee. "Alright, next question—what happens if I tell them to smash the exit open?"

"The Vault’s magic would stop them."

"Okay, but what if we just… tested that theory?"

She pinched the bridge of her nose. "Why are you like this?"

Ren ignored her, turning to the construct. "Hey, big guy. Punch the wall."

The construct drew back its massive fist—

"Wait, wait, wait!" she yelped. "Fine! I’ll open the door!"

Ren smirked. "Knew you could."

She scowled and muttered an incantation under her breath. The runes sealing the exit flickered and then vanished, revealing the tunnel beyond.

"See?" Ren patted the construct’s arm. "No unnecessary property damage. Everyone wins."

She crossed her arms. "You’re insufferable."

"I get that a lot," Ren said cheerfully, striding toward the exit. "Alright, let’s get out of here before someone realizes I just stole their magic army."

She groaned. "You technically inherited it."

"Semantics."

Behind them, the constructs turned in unison, silent and waiting. Ren glanced back, an idea sparking in his mind.

Oh, he could have so much fun with this.