Ebony Fly figurine uncontrolled?

[0-hr]

When animated, the ebony fly is the size of a pony and has all
the statistics of a hippogriff (Hit Dice, AC, carrying capacity,
speed, and so on) but can make no attacks. The item can be used
three times per week for up to 12 hours per use. When 12 hours
have passed or when the command word is spoken, the ebony fly
again becomes a tiny statuette.

It doesn't say anything about the fly being under your control (most of the other figurines do explicity say that). Just an ommission, or does this create a big fly that doesn't really care about the summoner?

As an aside, I am trying to convert a "Figurine of Wonderous Power: Giant Wasp" into standard 3rd Ed stats and the fly looked like the closest thing. I figured (heh) I would say it was the same as the Ebony Fly except with Giant Wasp stats. But if it isn't under the summoner's control, that could be a Bad Idea.

 

[Artoomis]

Figurines of Wondrous Power

Each of the several kinds of figurines of wondrous power appears to be a tiny statuette of an creature an inch or so high (with one exception). When the figurine is tossed down and the correct command word spoken, it becomes a living creature of normal size (except when noted otherwise below). The creature obeys and serves its owner...

There you have it.

 

[0-hr]

Ok great, and I'll just assume that they meant "understands, obeys, and serves".

 

[Artoomis]

Ok great, and I'll just assume that they meant "understands, obeys, and serves".

Well, no, communication is an issue. Of course, one can expect they'll follow obvious commands like pointing at the enemy with much fear in your demeanor means "kill."

IIRC a high-level monk or druid could talk to them. Of course, "Speak with Animals" would work, as well.

It's too much fun the first time it's used and the critter sits and looks at you waiting for commands you are unable to provide since you can't communicate.

 

[Hypersmurf]

Of course, "Speak with Animals" would work, as well.

"Note: This spell does not work on beasts, magical beasts, or vermin."

Not on the fly, it wouldn't...

-Hyp.

 

[Zaruthustran]

Ok great, and I'll just assume that they meant "understands, obeys, and serves".

That's a safe assumption. After all, how can it obey if it can't understand?

-z