Siege Weapon-making I (sage ability)
Siege Weapon-making I is an amateur-status sage ability within the study of Fortification, providing foundational knowledge in the construction of siege weaponry. This ability focuses on the fabrication of devices designed to breach or circumvent castle walls and gates, as well as equipment that aids attackers in scaling fortifications or defending forces in repelling sieges. It allows the character to oversee the construction of siege machines and instruct unskilled laborers in their assembly, ensuring that, given the necessary materials, a variety of siege weapons can be built.
The character is capable of directing the construction of fundamental siege engines, including trebuchets, catapults, mangonels and ballistae. Additional equipment includes siege towers for advancing troops, battering rams for breaching doors and gates and portable shields to protect advancing forces. Defensive measures such as the oil smelter, ladders and grappling hooks are also included within the scope of this ability. Siege engines may be designed as stationary fortifications upon castle walls or as mobile structures mounted on wheels, pushed by soldiers or dragged by animals. However, this amateur-level ability only permits the fabrication of conventional siege weapons; innovation, modification and the development of mystical or advanced weaponry, such as the Chinese cannon, remain beyond the character's expertise.
The specifics of each construction are detailed in the links provided. While the ability grants an apprentice's knowledge of siege weaponry, it does not extend to the operation, aiming or tactical use of such devices. The character cannot independently manage an artillery crew or ensure accurate firing.
In addition to technical knowledge, the character possesses an understanding of the materials required to build siege weapons. This includes the ability to assess and source suitable wood for structural components and ammunition, as well as identifying quarries or natural stone outcroppings suitable for construction or projectile crafting. If necessary, the character can determine whether siege materials should be procured through purchase or harvested from the surrounding environment.
See also,
Architecture (sage field)
Bard Sage Abilities
Siege Weapon-making II (sage ability)
Sapping (sage ability)