Jack's lips curved into something that wasn't quite a smile. "S makes contracts, but I also have the benefit of just killing them and making them mine. They were strong enough to help kill you, which means they're strong beings, Ren."
He met the ancient hero's gaze without flinching. "It wouldn't hurt to have strong souls bound to my service."
The logic was brutal. If these seven spirits had been powerful enough to assist in trapping a Sovereign-class warrior, they were worth adding to Jack's army. Revenge served while simultaneously increasing his forces.
Ren stared at him for a long moment, something complex passing behind those star-bright eyes. Then, slowly, his lips curved into a smile that carried dark approval.
"You think like a warlord," Ren observed. "Not a hero."
"I'm neither," Jack replied. "I'm a survivor."
