Bolt-Throwing

One of the greatest inventions to come out of the most recent conflict in Isturoth is the Kartush, otherwise known as the ballista. These were first imagined as an alternative to the bow and arrow, in the form of the smaller crossbow. This launched the innovation of "bolt-throwing".
Once the crossbow saw utilisation on the battlefield, it was only a matter of time before engineers and tinkerers began to dream bigger and more powerful. Bolt-throwing soon emerged as a dominant military technology, both for offence and defence. The ballista forever changed warfare in Isturoth and can now be found all across the Ironstone Mountains.

Utility

Most fortresses and strongholds now come fully-equipped with bolt-throwing technology, from the ballistas mounted along the battlements to the crossbow-wielding infantry that patrol its halls.
The design has been further improved upon for the purposes of seige machinery. Some ballistas are capable of launching strong hooks attached to chains that will either ensnare pieces of a structure or pierce through walls or doors. The chain is then retracted with some force, pulling away the grappled structure. This is particularly effective for tearing down walls and gates to allow access into a stronghold.

Social Impact

As is often the case with times of conflict, the most recent wartime research has brought about the emerging technology. The innovation of bolt-throwing has revolutionised Isturian warfare and brought about a new age in mechanical engineering.

Complexity

As the technology became more widespread and more easily understood, more simplified designs have emerged that are easier to built and easier to maintain. This, of course, increases with the size of the machinery; i.e. seige weapons will be significantly more complex and harder to assemble.