[quote=Ellri]
Crossbow as in the mass-produced hand-held type, Aristo. Not the siege weapon type. Basically: an era when, for ranged combat other than siege weaponry and Evoking, you would be limited to things that take years of practice to become a danger to more than yourself with. i.e. Bows, slings, throwing knives, etc. Not crossbows, guns, reliable cannons, etc.Don't forget that since this isn't earth, eras can be twisted a little.
[/quote]

I'm aware of the kind of crossbow we're talking about; I mentioned the ancient artillery version for historical context. Because crossbows were simple to train a man to use, why wouldn't they be prominent in our RP's world? It'd be easy for a standing army to maintain a crossbow corps, and practical, since just about anyone can use it once you show them how.