Mechanis

Mechanis are an advanced form of golem made out of metallic, mechanical moving parts. Because of how complex they are, they require a mortal soul to control which can only be done by directly transferring it from a human body. An ekati gem supplies the power and is made to be rechargeable either through long periods of rest or by consuming food and drink like a normal flesh and blood mortal.

Mechanis were invented in Leir as part of the war against the Heilinthar Empire. The simulacra used by the Heilinthar were faster and more intelligent than Leir's golems. However, mechanis are very difficult to create en masse due to the unreliability of the soul transfer process. As such, Leir chose only to experiment on mortals that were either severely injured, sick or close to death. Soldiers who were mortally wounded in the field of battle were among the first candidates but they did not survive the process. Eventually, the first three successfully-created mechanis were the Steel Sisters: Vinda Dorchester, Yora Eddie and Stayla LeVasseur.

Due to how few mechanis Leir was able to produce, it was opted to have them serve as special operatives. Due to their ability to reasonably pass as human, they could serve as spies and stealth agents. Their inherent physical strength also made them exceptional warriors on par with the Magic Knights.