Trebuchet

Type: Weapon
Size: 15’x18’
Weight: Over 400lbs
Condition: Varies, typically in a well kempt condition
Rarity: Common
Location: Outskirts of human settlements

Appearance
Trebuchet are large, wooden catapults that consist of a base and an arm with a sling and a weighted end. The base is a rotating platform upon which the arm mechanism lies. The arm itself is levered upon the base with the sling attached to one end and weights on string to the other. They can be found by the outskirts of any human settlements, but usually rather spread apart.
Uses
Trebuchets are used most frequently as a defense of sorts against the eldritch. The sling end of the trebuchet is filled with rocks or other heavy objects before a latch that holds the sling side down is released, causing the weighted side of the arm to flip the contraption, sending the loaded items flying. The intent is to usually scare off eldritch wandering too close to the settlement, as they usually respond the same way any animal does when rocks get thrown at them: running away. Some smaller varieties can even be crushed by the projectile.
The simple capability to launch something has more uses than just this. In some settlements, I have seen trebuchets used as a way of disposing of corpses and other detritus without venturing into the shroud, even though this use may sound revolting to some.
History
The trebuchet is far from a new tool; in fact, I have heard rumor that their design originates from the before times. They were first implemented as a defense mechanism shortly after the formation of the first settlements, as a means of keeping the eldritch away —even a little bit— was found to be a necessity. A cranky lad named Mackella is credited with the first design, which was the same basic concept of a weight launched sling as described earlier. Over the years, many additions and improvements have been made to the design: adjustable weights, rotating bases, more accurate slings, and means for estimating launch trajectory, just to name a few.