When speaking of the lifeform, Maids are a group of purpose-constructed automata manufactured by a now-forgotten empire. Their make is humanoid, evidently intended to reflect the appearance of their commissioners, paired in kind with clothes befitting employees of the upperclass of a bygone era.

Although possible to communicate instructions and intent to, Maids are considered to bear a largely unreasonable temperament, as the routine motions of their assigned task will always take precedence over any other concern in their minds. They are infamous for their tireless need of janitorial busywork, seeking out derelict residences to clean and repair to beat back the aching boredom that befalls them otherwise.

Among many people, they are treated much like benevolent spirits. Much of their longevity results from the charitable maintenance from certain patrons fond of their work and charm. Many of their uniforms are not factory-standard, being either partially repaired or replaced wholecloth. Many body parts have also been retrofitted, although it is not known whether any units have been created anew since their initial manufacturers went defunct.

Anatomically, the bodies of the constructs are much like large, elaborate dolls. Their exteriors are in majority a mix of sculped ceramic and carved wood. Their animation is provided to them by a carefully calibrated internal system of gearwork, like that found in a grandfather clock.

Their original uniform of dress is tailored out of fabrics standard to their time and place of creation. Of most consideration in the outfitting are the white housekeeper's gloves, presumably made standard issue for the purpose of protecting the hands from scratching--and being scratched by--other materials, as well as the regular utility of cleanliness as in organic housekeeps.