> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.empiresbattle.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.empiresbattle.com/empires-battle-lore/on-the-origin-of-beastfolk-animals-and-altered-creatures/8.-semi-mechanical-animals.md).

# 8. Semi-Mechanical Animals

The Steam Empire took a different path.

Where Decay uses bones, pain, and necromancy, Argo and his craftsmen use iron, boilers, and steam.

Some animals are enhanced with mechanical parts: damaged limbs are replaced with iron ones, their spines are reinforced with plates, steam-powered mechanisms are installed, and fittings for carrying cargo or armor are implanted into their bodies.

Such creatures rarely live long and cannot reproduce, but they are useful.

**Semi-mechanical animals are used:**

* for heavy labor;
* in mines;
* to transport cargo;
* as armored draft beasts;
* as combat carriers for the Empire's robots and soldiers.

Not all survive such modifications. Not all remain obedient. But the Steam Empire is not accustomed to stopping out of pity.

To Argo, a living body is simply another mechanism that can be improved, brought under control, and put to work.