There is something about the idea of sentient golems that is tickling my mind. But for some reason every time I think im close to figuring it out I switch back to alphonse elric from full metal alchemist. I keep picturing the "noble sacrifice" trope where some artificial being sacrifices its "life" to save his friends, even though he isnt supposed to be capable of feelings at all or some such thing. But damned if I can recall a title, or even enough info for a description.