Golems and Nimblewrights
Golems and nimblewrights are constructs that are normally under the control of their creator, and either follow set commands, or are inhabited by a sapient spirit or mind that can direct their own actions. All require the binding of an extraplanar being to a physical frame, which itself requires considerable craftsmanship.
Some artificers focused on the binding of fiends and devils into a physical frame to forge a construct. The binding of fiends into constructs was successful, but carried considerable risk, as the fiends within would constantly struggle against their controller and creators.
Artificers achieved greater success by binding elementals. Water and earth elementals proved most controllable. Earth elementals generally were the source of magic for golems, while water elementals were the core of nimblewrights.
In the late 1490's Lananese artificers began to mass produce and export nimblewrights. At least 20 were thought to be in the service of nobles in Waterdeep as guards and servants.
On rare occasion, artificers were able to imbue a true spirit into a construct and a more advanced golems was created. These golem exhibited higher forms of intelligence, and greater skill, with some even achieving success in utilizing magic.
The creation of self willed golems is frowned upon by most countries due to the ethical nature of creating creatures designed to only to serve. However, for many mages the fine line between a golem that has a spirit imprisoned within it and a free willed construct is easily crossed, and many mages search eagerly for that lost knowledge..
PLAYER NOTE: The background outlined above is intended to reflavor the official “warforged” race which is technically not present in Faerun. A timeless servant or slave that has been set free, or a recently unearthed individual from a forgotten battle, the options are varied. Be aware that most people will call you a “golem” and expect you to be dull witted and a servant or tool.