All four of them had gotten dragon pox at the same time. Well, Ivan had gotten it first, but anything contagious in the house was guaranteed to spread between the children sooner rather than later. The others were fine after bedrest and some Anti-Itching Unction, but it was worse for Igor. He was only three.
The fever lasted several days too long. Igor shivered and sweated under the blankets, sometimes crying but often silent, emitting a low whimper if touched. His mother kept late hours by his bedside, murmuring softly and adjusting pillows, waiting for her youngest to be strong.