Construct

Cold Hearted

"Every construct is a question disguised as a tool. How much of a person can be removed before only a machine remains? How much can be added before the machine becomes a person?"

— From On Artifice and Identity

Constructs are creatures that are created rather than born. They are artificial beings built through craftsmanship, magic, or a combination of both. Unlike living creatures, constructs are usually designed for a specific purpose and exist to carry out the tasks for which they were made.
Most constructs are created by skilled artisans, powerful spellcasters, or advanced civilizations. Their forms vary widely depending on their intended function. Some are built as guardians, soldiers, laborers, or servants, while others are created to protect valuable locations, carry out dangerous work, or perform tasks that living creatures cannot.
Constructs can be made from many different materials. Stone, metal, wood, clay, and other durable substances are commonly used. Magic is often required to animate these materials and give them the ability to move and act. In some cases, a construct may possess a limited form of intelligence, while others simply follow instructions without question.
Unlike most living creatures, constructs do not need food, water, sleep, or air. Many are resistant to conditions that would harm ordinary creatures, making them reliable workers and powerful defenders. Because they are not driven by hunger, fear, or other natural instincts, they often carry out their duties with complete focus.
The behavior of a construct depends on how it was created. Some can understand complex commands and make simple decisions, while others follow a strict set of instructions. A construct will usually continue performing its assigned task until it is destroyed, deactivated, or given new orders.
Although many constructs serve their creators faithfully, problems can arise when they lose control, receive conflicting commands, or continue following instructions long after their original purpose has been forgotten. Ancient constructs are sometimes found guarding ruins or treasures centuries after the people who built them have disappeared.
Common examples of constructs include golems, animated armor, flying swords, shield guardians, and homunculi. While these creations differ in appearance and purpose, they all share one defining trait. They are artificial beings brought to life through craftsmanship and magic rather than through natural birth.