Golem

Golems are artificially created semi-magical creatures.

Basic Information

Anatomy

Golems are typically humanoid, but can be made in almost any shape, as long as it is structurally sound. Golems are typically made of wood, clay, or stone, but any solid material can be used.

Manufacturing

First, a mage typically creates (or commissions) a sculpture. Sometimes other things are used, such as a doll or a suit of armor, but sculptures are the traditional, and thus most common, object to be used. Once a body is procured, preliminary enchantments are placed on it. Common enchantments are:

• Enchantments that ensure that the golem will be obedient.
• Enchantments that give the golem senses.
• Enchantments that increase the golem's durability.
• Enchantments that will tie the golem's animation to an object placed within the golem, referred to as a clavis. The clavis is often within a mouth-like cavity. The golem can be deactivated by removing it. In most cases a golem can be reactivated afterwards by replacing the clavis.
• Enchantments that will tie the golem's animation to the mage's life, so that the golem will deactivate when they die.

After all of the requisite enchantments are in place, the golem is animated. At this point, the golem is complete. A Conscientiam Soul can be implanted to make the golem sapient, but this is quite rare.
Naturally occurring golems are possible, created by Magical Storms. Magical Storms can also rarely create a sapient golem without the implantation of a soul.

Genetics and Reproduction

Golems cannot reproduce.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Golems do not have the need or ability to eat.

Additional Information

Domestication

Almost all golems are domesticated. Feral golems can occur if a golem if its creator dies without issuing standing orders or abandons it, or when a golem is created by a Magical Storm. Feral golems are typically quite docile unless provoked.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Golems are typically used as servants, pets, or soldiers.

Average Intelligence

Golems generally range from mindless to animal-like intelligence. Sapient golems can be created by implanting a soul during manufacturing. Because of the ethical and practical issues surrounding the acquisition and use of souls, as well as the need to teach sapient golems as if they were children, the creation of sapient golems is quite rare.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Golems typically have no sense of taste, and are otherwise average. Higher quality golems can have better senses.

Lifespan

Indefinite, depending on the skill of their creator.