Crackle Cough

Also referred to as "The Crackle" or "Crackly", Crackle Cough is a fairly new condition widespread throughout cities with large numbers of factories. Named after the unique sound of the forced coughs of the conditions, it typically affects workers within these factories, and the poor citizens living next to them. In addition to the coughing, this condition also results in weakness, confusion, and very stiff joints, resulting in a limited range of motion within its victims. It is rarely fatal, typically only is fatal amongst people who have pre-existing conditions, and many victims are able to continue working and living their life as normal. However, this condition is permanent, as there is currently no cure.   The exact cause of the cough is uncertain, with theories ranging from some new kind of bacteria, an unknown gas produced within the factory, or the use of kinetic engines angering some deity or the weave itself. However, due to the strangeness of the condition, no one explanation has been able to explain it. Research completed by scholars on the disease have determined that the disease by itself is not contagious - as in one cannot become infected with Crackle Cough from contact with someone already infected. However, it appears that the source of the conditions is found within these factories, as the highest rate of infection is found within factory workers, with rates of infection lowering as one moves away from the factories, or as one spends less time within these factories. As well, the maximum infection rate - of those working every day within these factories - is exactly 12.5%, lending creedance to the theory of divine retribution. On the other hand, the condition does not appear to discriminate between atheists, believers, or mages, seeming to randomly select its victims based on their proximity rather than their faith.