A.N. Sorry about the long time between updates. I never meant to go this long. After I got married I fell pregnant and miscarried. After that, I didn't feel like writing. When I started to get back into it and edit this chapter my laptop broke. I've had this chapter 1/2 edited since September. I know you all understand and hope you enjoy. Thanks for being patient with me.

Chapter 32 – Overcoming Vampires

Norwegian

Icelandic

"English"

Thursday 1st April

It was barely minutes before Tabitha returned, a worried-looking Demelza and Eveline with her.

"What are you two doing here?"

"Agnar told us what happened. We decided to come with Erlendur. Jakob wanted to come as well but can't. He's with Agnar so he isn't alone." Demelza smiled.

"Erlendur told everyone you had been attacked by a vampire and were nervy around them now. We have four with us this holiday. You met Thomas over Christmas. And there are a couple of others from Magere as well. None of them are happy and say it's a disgrace. They all want to give you time and help you with this" Eveline added.

"You said you knew someone, an Omega vamp?"

"Yep, I already spoke to them. Their room is down the hall. We're going to take a walk down there and wait outside. How were you doing this before?"

"We got to having the door open. But I couldn't go inside, and you saw my reaction yesterday. We were supposed to go inside but not speak. Then speaking from the door before moving closer".

"So, to go home we need to get inside the door" Demelza nodded.

"That's what Erlendur said. But we were doing this with Vamps I knew. May be different with someone I don't know".

"No time like the present to try." Tabitha jumped up off the bed where she had been resting. "I'll push you".

"I can do this myself".

"Oh, not this again. Yes, you can but one this is quicker and two you don't have to." Eveline waved off as they headed towards the door. After another minute Harry gave up and instead focused on trying not to become anxious. They had just reached the last door when they stopped, and Harry looked at the shut door. It was no different to his own with a number on the front.

"How you doing?"

"Okay I know they could open the door but I'm not too bad".

"Alright we knock then, and I'll open the door. Jade is a new friend I made the last few months, but you'll like her." Tabitha smiled, and Harry frowned wondering how well Tabitha could know this vampire in that case. Still, the older girl knocked on the door and then opened it. Harry closed his eyes and breathed for a few minutes before glancing inside the room only to pause. While his room looked much like a hospital room Jades was different. Sure, there was the same furniture and walls but that was where things ended. The walls were covered in pictures and the bedding was pink. A large rug had been thrown over the floor as well along with a toy box in one corner and a chest full of clothes. On the rug playing with a doll was an eight-year-old girl. Harry knew he would have been able to stop her from biting him even as he was now.

"What... why is she here like this?" Harry looked at Tabitha feeling no fear towards the small girl, though he wasn't in the room yet.

"Want to go inside and she may tell you," Tabatha started as the girl looked up. She had long dark hair, grey eyes, and pale skin. But the pink dress she was wearing did not make you think vampire.

"Can try." Eveline pushed him inside and Harry took a few deep breaths, but the fear didn't come. The girl was just too not a vampire or wasn't until she opened her mouth to speak. Then Harry had to take several deeper breaths. But he found that after five minutes he was able to breatheagain. The girl hadn't moved, and she was so different to every other vampire he had seen. Then again, he had never seen one so young.

"Hello Harry, my name is Jade".

"Hello."

"Harry is curious about you Jade and how we met can I tell him?"

"Sure, then will you play with me?"

"Yes, I will."

"We will while Harry and Tabitha talk. You are so cute." Eveline and Demelza made a beeline for the girl.

"What?"

"Jade was bitten not long after you went to school. Her parents were killed, and her relatives refuse to take her in. At first, they weren't sure if the vampire bite would take, they don't always, and the person dies."

"So, she stayed here".

"Where they could watch her and try to find her family. As I said the family part failed and the vampire bite took. Vampire kids are enchanting it's a way to stop people from killing them off. I met Jade when I heard her crying one night since my room is just the other side of hers around the corner."

"What will happen to her?"

"The doctors are looking for a hostel to take her. They were talking to Erlendur"

"And then I was attacked".

"That's right. You okay with Jade then?"

"I've not seen a vampire so young, and she seems sweet".

"Like I said they're enchanting to protect them. Jade can't put you under a Thrall she's way too young. All vampires this age aren't mentally strong enough. Jade can't even use Telepathy or anything else yet either. All she does is have a slightly different diet to us. That will be the case for a few years yet as well".

"So, we need to find someone else for me to work on my vampire issues with".

"Harry at the core Jade is a vampire and you know that. You fear being bitten, and she could do that, they have been teaching her to feed from wrists and cups of animal blood."

"But she could only do it if I let her which I won't."

"Neither will any of the vampires at the hostel. That's what you need to get and then get strong enough to stop anyone who would force a bite from doing so. But at your age that's hard, you're still growing in magic and strength. It's something you need to grow into".

"That's what Erlendur says when he talks about treating me as a kid".

"You are a kid, I'm a kid, everyone at the hostel is a kid. Yes, most of us are teens but that doesn't make much difference. You're a kid to Erlendur until you move out".

"I've never been a kid".

"Doesn't mean you can't be" was Tabitha's response and that made Harry pause for a moment before shaking it off. He had never been a kid so why start now.

"You play with me," Jade spoke and feeling no fear or having a reason not to Harry agreed.

He spent an easy hour with Jade as they played around his chair with the other girls. Harry wasn't sure if he had been this relaxed in months. Never mind ever having this much fun in something so childish. As they left Eveline said she would send Pam over. One of the vampires that were staying at the hostel was an Omega. Pam was a Senior student. But while not strong enough for a Thrall, she was old enough to be included in the group Harry was having issues with. But as Jade had shown Harry could stand Vampires if they were harmless to him. Which most admittedly weren't. But it did give him hope that he would be able to get over this fear at some point. Or tamper it down to weariness of unknown vampires, which was perfectly healthy.

As Tabitha, Demelza and Eveline left Agnar, Isur and Mark Rogers arrived.

"You know Harry I was happy to come with you to Iceland before right. Though from what I heard it was Erlendur that wanted me, not you." Isur laughed and Harry was thankful the other boy wasn't hurt by the fact.

"You shouldn't have worried about asking Harry. We don't have any holiday homework and the hostel isn't the same without you. I don't mind helping or having something to do," Agnar spoke this time.

"I already know how, Erlendur was a bit shocked about that, now I have been signed up on a rota to help a few and help teach others. Erlendur said he would write a reference for me when I get a job for doing it. So, helps me out. I think Erlendur has an update on your Lawyer. I sent all the information to someone I interned with last summer with Erlendur's permission. And they have got back to me about speaking with you."

"Something for when I get out of here then," Harry nodded as Dr Vang and Alf arrived.

"All ready. My name is Kai Vang, and I am Harry's primary doctor. This is Alf Holst my Medi-guard. Now I have met Isur before, but can I ask who the rest of you are".

"My name is Mark Rogers I already know how to do purification baths, Erlendur didn't know that. He wants you to watch me so I can be put on a rota he is making for all the sensitives".

"Can do and you young man".

"I'm Harry's friend Angar we share a dorm at school".

"So, you are Agnar I have heard good things about you. No not from Harry, in the reports I get from the school on Harry and my other patients. Now I hope you all have wet clothes so let's go. No Harry you are not pushing yourself."Harry sighed as Alf took the handles and gave up missing the looks the three behind shared.

They headed down to the purification baths and Harry was forced to let Isur help him change. It was better than Alf who had done so for his shower. However, Alf did carry him from the chair into the room with the bath since he hadn't used his crutches in days.

"Alright, Harry I am going to remove the bindings on your leg. You are not to move it at all. Agnar, Isur this is where you come in. Both of you are to keep that leg straight you understand".

"Yes," Harry saw the two nod.

"Harry me and Alf are going to keep you afloat while Mark does the bath. I will be watching and make sure he does it properly. Like with the shower you are not going to be able to do much and sadly aren't going to like this much".

"Great" Harry groaned.

No one said it. but all were hoping this time would help Harry learn to accept help just a little bit more.

Alf carried him into the water where Isur and Agnar grabbed his leg and Harry found himself floating on his back. He really didn't like it as Mark set the air filtration going. The whole bath didn't get much better and between the five he found himself scrubbed and dunked under the water repeatedly. Though apparently, Mark did know what he was doing. While the five did try to talk and keep him distracted, his friends doing a semi-good job. It didn't make the whole experience much more bearable at all. By the end of it, he was tired and half asleep, to begin with. Though he was aware of Isur helping him dry and change. Before his leg was bound again and he was carried to bed by Alf.

In the morning Harry was groggy when he woke. But not too out of it to notice he wasn't alone in his room. As soon as he opened his eyes and put his glasses on Harry flinched at the sight of a vampire for a moment. That was before the rest of the person filtered into his tired brain.

"Jade?" he whispered.

"Morning Harry, how are you feeling?"

"Alright. What you doing here?"

"I didn't want to be alone and didn't think you would want to either. I brought food. I remember you all saying the lounge was hard".

"It is thanks." Harry pushed himself up and accepted the food from the small vampire. They chatted happily for an hour before there was a knock on the door. Dr Vang's face was a picture when he came in and saw Jade. Both of them couldn't help laughing as the girl ran out.

"That was a surprise".

"Tabitha introduced us. We worked out that my main problem with vampires is the fear of being bitten. Jades too young for me to be scared of though if she surprises me it takes me a moment to remember who she is. Apparently, they're going to send someone over from the hostel today who is older to work with me".

"Good this is progress, and I will speak to Jade's doctor. There should be no reason Jade can't go to the hostel now then".

"Will be good for her, even if it isn't the traditional vampire upbringing."

"Hopefully the hostel will be temporary and we can find a good Clan to take her in. Otherwise, we will look for a vampire sponsor. Her seir really did wrong by turning and then abandoning her. I do believe he hoped to kill her. Never mind how are you this morning?"

"Good. I was a little tired when waking up but am fine now."

"That's good. We will do the procedure later today so eat as much as you can. You missed a meal yesterday and will again today. It is not the best so eat what you can and spend time with your friends".

"Will do," Harry smiled. The Doctor helped him into his chair before using a non-invasive spell to change his clothes. Harry was grateful as he wheeled out after him. They split after his room and Harry went to find Jade. The small girl then checked the lounge for him and found Philipa waiting for him. As soon as Philipa came out Jade went inside and they headed back to his room.

"We thought we would do this on your turf so to speak."

"Tabitha and them explained".

"Yep, and we all want to help with this. This morning we are just going to have Pam stand outside and if you want you can talk to her from the door. But she isn't coming into the room. Then later I have arranged to borrow a meeting room just off the Wing. Mark is going to come over early and help you while Pam comes into the room".

"Help me?"

"Keep you calm, be an Alpha presence."

"Oh!"

"Yep. Isur wanted to come but Erlendur wanted him to rest and get used to time zones. Mark is older too and good at defence and martial arts, so he was a good idea".

"Alright."

"Hey, you made good progress yesterday with just Jade, that was a good idea of Tabitha's. If you had had trouble with Jade, she would have been brilliant to work with being so young. The girl didn't mind apparently. Pam doesn't either. But she is a little more like the stereotypical vampire so will probably give you more trouble. Hence Mark being here".

"We can try," Harry took a shuddering breath.

"I'll signal Jade from the door so she can get Pam. Pam is just coming during the day and won't be here at night. I think the other vamps were warned since they are mostly staying in their rooms or the lounge".

"I would have thought they would like a human being afraid of them".

"Alpha vamps yes. But Omegas not so much, their omega nature bleeding through. Something they do try to hide but don't have to here".

"Okay, I guess."

"One second."

Philipa was only a minute and then she was back leaving the door open. A moment later Jade appeared with a tall vampire who had pale skin and black hair. She grinned instantly showing her fangs and Harry had to close his eyes to breathe.

"Breathe Harry Pam isn't coming any closer and she won't bite you".

"But he looks so tasty".

"You are not helping".

"And here I thought this was the idea." came the sneer that sounded so much like Snape that Harry had to open his eyes for a moment to check. Pam made a show of licking her lips and fangs making Harry close his eyes again looking away trying to breathe. This vampire was very different to Luke and Nymira. She reminded him of some of the older vamps at school. They sized each other up and did annoy the older students. But as a rule, they had control and left the younger students alone. Harry knew he had to get strong enough to fight them off but right now his health really prevented it.

"Just breathe Harry Pam is not coming in. I won't let her. Just tune the talk out."

"Easier said than done," he muttered.

"Talking that's good. This is why we are doing this".

"I know," he forced his eyes open. Pam was leaning against the door looking a bit bored and talking with Jade.

"Remember Pam is Magere she has control and has a mentor family of her own".

"She reminds me of some of the other vampires at school".

"Always sizing each other up and yes Pam is one of the ones who bug the older students keeping them on their toes. We're scholars but that doesn't mean we don't need to learn to handle Vampires, Werewolves and other creatures in the real world. It's just kept to a more toned-down level".

"How is Magere seen by everyone else?"

"By Kennecot and Nyx, we've seen as the pussy book readers. But that means the rare time someone has attacked a Magere student they get a surprise. If you can do all the spells you read, especially the obscure ones people underestimate you. They forget that those who read are the ones who know a lot of spells and may well be able to cast them. Gives us an advantage".

"That's something."

"He's boring and no fun to play with".

"I'm a beginner student," Harry snapped back and then paled.

"No Harry that's good and what you say to an older student doing that".

"She's right. That's what I wanted you to say. You beginners are too small for a good meal, you are especially. Though you do look tasty and will have to watch yourself in a few years. Everyone is going to be after you".

"I think that's enough for now," Philipa called an end. Pam quickly swept away with Jade running after her which seemed cute and out of place. "You going to be okay".

"Yeah" Harry finally relaxed "She is so different to Jade and seems more dangerous than those in my year".

"Will be. I think Moonlord is the worst in your year. He's trying to act older than he is and going to be in big trouble if he isn't careful. He might have been better at Merlin or Nyx the way he is going on".

"Maybe. Apparently, he has a clan mate or something at Merlin who is just the same".

"Hue maybe it's the whole clan then. Would explain him. Regardless rest and I'll stay here with Pam hanging around. She is helpful but not someone I know very well and only trust slightly."

"But better to use someone from Magere who we trust slightly than someone we don't from elsewhere".

"Definitely!"

Philipa helped him into bed and Harry lay down for a rest. He drifted off to sleep quicker than he thought he would with Pam floating around. She really was the stereotypical vampire.

That afternoon Mark did indeed meet him and Philipa in one of the meeting rooms. But to Harry's surprise, Pam didn't immediately turn up. Instead, Mark just spent time talking to him and Harry found himself growing more comfortable with the Alpha. Which was probably the point. Mark told him stories about being on the RES squad and messing around with his dorm mates. It was nice that even though many of Mark's friends now had creature inheritances they had remained close. Apparently, they had all managed to get rooms in the same area and regularly went between them. Philipa was in a different dorm block from her friends. But that hadn't affected them at all. Harry hoped to be as close to Agnar and the others as he was their age. But he also hoped to remain that close to Ron and Hermione despite being in different schools.

As Pam arrived Harry screeched as Mark pulled him into his lap. Even with his eyes closed trying to avoid looking at Pam.

"Harry she isn't going to hurt you. Remember this is why I am here."

"I thought you were supposed to be a bodyguard".

"You don't need one. I have heard from Angar about how good you are at duelling. No what you need is someone to ground you right now, so you don't get lost in the memories".

"I don't remember".

"That is probably half the problem. You don't remember what it was like or what happened".

"I am not letting anyone bite me".

"No, I wouldn't recommend that right now. In the future maybe but not right now."

It took an hour, but Harry slowly found himself able to relax with Pam in the room. And though he wouldn't admit it Mark did help.

"Any idea what you are looking to study Harry?" Philipa turned. It made Harry jump from where he had settled using Mark as a pillow.

"I don't know. What are you doing?" he finally asked.

"Next year I'll be doing Healing, Potions and Alchemy Mastery's. I want to be a healer and help kids who were abused like I was."

"Like most at the Hostel were".

"That goes without saying," Philipa smiled, and Harry did a little. "What are you studying Pam?"

"Charms, Martial Arts, Wandless, Warding, Enchanting, Spell Crafting, Duelling, Focus Making, History, Battle Magic, Transfiguration, First Aid, Runes, Arithmancy, Blood Magic. I already completed my Animagus mastery and some of the other pre-requests for my other master's I'll be finishing this year".

"Like what," Harry whispered. It was only due to Pam's advanced hearing that she heard the question in the first place.

"Latin, Greek and Magical Theory. It's allowing me to take other subjects this year like Mind Magic and Law. I took the full 15 classes each year. I could have dropped Marital Arts, but I enjoy it and allowed myself the luxury".

"Wow!"

"I wasn't so organised," Mark laughed. "Though I am pushing Philipa to be so".

"Oh, I will be big brother" Philipa smiled. "One would have thought you would be organised. Isn't that a big thing in being an aspiring Lawyer?"

"I have my own system".

"Humans," Pam purred. "You know Mark, I never tasted you. Or targeted you. Maybe I should?"

"Try. Having seen me in class you should know better," Mark shot back.

"Maybe I will."

"Dropped yourself in it now brother. This will be so much fun to watch." Harry marvelled in that Mark and Philipa could go toe to toe with the Vampire. Egg her on and seemed to find her amusing now. Philipa was lounging around without a care in the world and seemed totally at ease. Harry wondered if it was the truth or if they were just putting on a show.

"So, let's see if I remember competitions right. This term we have what swimming, skating, spell creation, Gobstones, Martial Arts, Duelling, Drama, and Debate always have that. I'm missing some."

"Potions, Music and Orienteering."

"I really should remember potions" Philipa laughed. "Any ideas for them Harry?"

"No Duelling sounds cool though and Martial Arts. I'm only learning to swim or would do that."

"You should."

"A duellist then?" Pam eyed him.

"One of the best in his class if the news is right," Mark smiled.

"Hem maybe someone for other vampires to have fun with then. Though Moonlord already seems to have the right idea."

"He's an idiot." Harry shot back and had to take a moment to breathe.

"Why?" Pam purred.

"Why what?"

"Why is he an idiot?"

"Because he isn't playing to the rules. Because he keeps pushing to spar with me in Martial Arts and glaring at me across the room. Aren't you Vampires supposed to be more supple? You go on about biting but not hurting someone like he does if reports from his dorm are right. He got caught once by bragging".

Pam burst out cackling and it made Harry jump before settling down.

"You are correct. For those reasons, he is an idiot. With that, I shall leave before you figure any more of us out. See you later Mark," with that Pam swept out of the room.

"Well done, Harry" Philipa reverted to Icelandic. "You had a full conversation with her."

"Is she really going to target you now Mark?" Harry asked ignoring the praise.

"Probably but I'll be ready. Philipa is right though Harry you did well there. Next step is for you to try going back into the lounge with the vampires there".

"Someone will be with you tomorrow to do it" Philipa smiled. "Then you can come back to the hostel. You probably have a lot of post built up for us to do." Harry groaned but smiled. It was true he did and there was still backdated post to do as well. "That is a yes then".

It wasn't long and Alf came to collect him for the procedure to break his leg. Harry found it strange thinking about purposely breaking his leg. But put that thought out of his mind. Mark put him back in his chair from where he had been on the older boy's lap. Then as Harry moved to push himself Alf took over. With a sigh, Harry gave up. He didn't know who would be there for the bath this time. But since he would be knocked out by that point it probably didn't matter.

When they arrived at their destination Harry was shocked to see it wasn't Dr Vang's office. Instead, they were in the X-ray room.

"Why are we here?"

"So, we can check we have all the damaged bones before healing you. Best to do this correctly the first time. The less pain for you the better."

"Thanks, I guess" Harry muttered. Inside were the x-ray doctor and Dr Vang.

"Ready Harry"

"As much as I will be".

"Alright let Alf move you into position and we'll get started. I've already checked and the same friends from yesterday are here again. Apparently, they thought it best to use people you are comfortable with." something in Harry relaxed at that. He hadn't realised how tense he was to the idea of people he didn't know helping him until that moment. Alf chose that exact moment to pick up him and Harry flinched before he could contain it.

"Should have warned you sorry".

"It's alright" he muttered as he lay back on the bench.

"Okay, Harry I'm going to remove the bindings so no moving. Then I am going to mark that leg where it needs breaking from the x-rays. After that, we'll break it."

"And knock me out?"

"At the same time. I don't think you'll last much past the first spell, and we have multiple bones in this leg to break".

"Alright."

"First, I'm going to remove those trousers, but you will be covered don't worry."

"Kay" Harry took a deep breath and slowly let it out. His trousers disappeared a moment later. Harry jumped again when the Dr started making marks with a pen on his leg and that felt weird. This took several minutes as the two doctors spoke in a language Harry didn't know. He guessed it was Greenlandic and it reminded Harry of his promise to learn the language at some point. But they were also putting many marks on his leg. Harry had known Dudley liked breaking his legs. He liked to laugh and see him hobbling about. But he hadn't realised just how many times that had been over the years. Then again Dudley had learned that targeting his arms while fun also affected his ability to cook. Something Dudley enjoyed more than beating him.

"Alright, that is all of them. These relatives of yours. We're going to start breaking now Harry you ready?"

"Yes," Harry ground his teeth waiting for the pain to start. It did start a second later. Harry could not help the cry of pain that escaped him at that second. He could feel the magic moving through him from head to toe. As the second burst hit Harry cried out again before the magic became too much and he lost consciousness.

"That was longer than you thought?" the x-ray technician commented in Greenlandic.

"Yes, it was. Good for the future as he gets older. Now let's finish this" Kai Vang turned back to his work. It was much easier now that Harry was unconscious, and he didn't feel guilty about purposely causing the young boy pain.

Saturday 3rd April

When Harry woke the next morning, it was with a killer headache. He groaned struggling to turn over with the weight of his leg. Opening his eyes Harry looked down and saw a green muggle cast over his leg. It went all the way from his ankle to just below his hip and would make walking on it impossible.

"Great" he sighed rolling back onto his back. The cast was probably worse than the bindings.

"Morning Harry," a nurse walked in for a change and Harry peered at her. Over the last few days, it had been Alf. But Harry had seen the nurses plenty of times around the building.

"Morning," he muttered.

"Are you alright Harry? No aftereffects from last night?"

"No."

"You sure you look like you're in pain. Last chance before I get Dr Vang".

"I'm fine!"

"Alright, I'll be back." Harry groaned when she didn't believe him but thankfully left him in peace. Even just talking made his head throb. He had never felt like this before after a purification bath. It just made him hate the things even more.

Harry had just started to doze back off to sleep when the door opened again. Looking he saw it was Dr Vang with Alf behind as his ever-present shadow.

"Nurse Val said you looked like you were in pain and wouldn't tell her".

"I'm fine!"

"No, you're not. Remember your on thin ice for checks Harry. Last chance to tell me".

"It's just a headache" Harry glared at him.

"Looks more than a headache to me" Alf responded, and Harry groaned again.

"Have you ever had a headache from a bath before"?

"No" he admitted.

"Alright let's have a look"

"No bath!"

"I have to scan you yes. However, I don't think it will be enough to trigger a bath. Maybe a shower when you are next here won't go amiss though. Every week from now on." Harry sighed as the Doctor put his hand on his head. A moment later the magic seeped into him. Thankfully though it quickly retreated.

"Migraine caused by stress. I'll give you a potion for it. Rest is what you need." the doctor sent Alf to get the nurse for a potion. She was back a moment later and Harry drank it down, grateful when his head stopped throbbing.

"How's my leg?" Harry asked hoping to deflect talk about not telling them about the headache.

"Nice try. No, we are going to talk about this later as scheduled. Let Val help you dress and then go find your friends in the lounge. I'll see you later to talk with Erlendur and we will be talking about this Harry." as the two left Harry felt a forbidding lump forming in his stomach. This wasn't going to be good.

Still, Harry let Val spell him changed and then she used magic to get him into his chair. Thankfully she also let him wheel himself to the lounge. It was the first time he had gone there since his panic attack a few days ago. It felt like forever. As he entered Harry took several deep breaths. There were several Vampires in the room not just one. He was just about to leave when someone took the bars on his wheelchair and pushed him in further.

"No!"

"Easy Harry, we have you. Just breathe." they paused at the edge of the room but still further in than Harry was comfortable with. When Harry could finally open his eyes he saw Tabitha, Eveline, Demelza, Adrian Tvit and Philipa.

"No one is getting through all of us Harry. Just breathe and relax".

"I thought the doctors were supposed to heal your leg?" Adrian asked. Harry knew it was probably a tactic to take his mind off the Vampires. But Harry honestly didn't mind at that moment.

"I have problems with my bones anyway. So, the Doctors decided to heal it and sort those problems out in one go. They need to do several other areas as well in groups. I don't know how long I'll have the cast on. But I did know my leg would be bound for a short while after".

"Alright," Adrian nodded just accepting it as fact.

"Do you remember anything from yesterday? Agnar looked a bit pale when they came back last night" Tabitha asked.

"No, I was unconscious for the most part. The magic needed knocked me out after the second round. The little I do remember was painful. Is Agnar alright?"

"He was fine, just pale. I think Erlendur gave him a sleeping draught or something. But he seemed okay this morning." Harry relaxed at Tabitha's words. He did consider Agnar a friend. But this was the whole reason he hadn't wanted to use his friends in the first place. And Erlendur had to take that decision out of his hands. It had been his choice to make not Erlendur's.

"You alright Harry?"

"Yeah," he looked around. The vampires were all keeping a good distance away. But they were eating, relaxing, and talking among themselves.

"Have you eaten yet?" Adrian asked and Harry shook his head. Eveline and Demelza ran to get him something to eat. In the meantime, they moved over to a table nearby.

"Erlendur is coming up today later".

"I know. He wants to talk about me coming to the hostel and what needs to be done. Otherwise, I have to stay here".

"Didn't he say you just need to be in a room with Vampires?" Eveline arrived back with some porridge and toast.

"Mainly."

"Harry look around. There are several vampires in here and you're not panicking. Sure, you did in the beginning, but if you have someone with you at the hostel, you'll be fine" Demelza replied. "He can't say you can't come to the hostel".

"That's true. You will need someone with you with that leg anyway. Standard practice in case something happens. Erlendur does it with broken arms too. Any time you're in a cast".

"Even arms" Harry blinked at Adrian.

"Yep. Any injury. He just wants to be safe".

"That's excessive."

"That's Erlendur. He's a lot like everyone at Magere and the OSS. Obsessed with keeping us safe. It's no wonder he's good friends with the Headmistress and doctors here."

"Oh, that's agreed. Erlendur is great but mad sometimes" Tabitha and the girls nodded. Adrian just laughed but Harry couldn't help frowning. He didn't need looking after.

They stayed in the lounge talking for an hour. It was as long as Harry could stand before he started feeling like he was being watched. In that time talk had gone from the Hostel to Euro-Glyth, to Magere, Hogwarts and then to different sports in the world.

On leaving there was a small debate about rooms. But in the end, they ended up in his. After all the nurse or Alf would need to know where to find him. Once settled they picked up talking right where they left off. From sports, they went to the unaware world, Music, and games. Harry was just beginning to think they would exhaust all conversation topics when Nurse Val appeared at the door.

"Erlendur is waiting for you at the door. Doctor Vang will see you now," Harry sighed but nodded. He waved bye to the others at the lounge door before pushing himself out to the main hospital. Erlendur was at the entrance to the wing. He instantly took over pushing the chair and took them to Dr Vang's office without a word. Harry wondered if he was in trouble with the hostel head. But then he was angry with the man himself, so he didn't really care either way.

When they arrived at the Office Alf opened the door. Erlendur pushed him inside and then to the chairs at the side of the desk before sitting down himself. Dr Vang was sitting in front of the desk shuffling papers around before looking at them.

"How are you feeling now after this morning's migraine Harry?"

"Good" Harry muttered.

"That's good. Now we shall start with your leg and discuss this morning alright?"

"Sure."

"Sounds good" Erlendur nodded.

"Excellent. Last night we managed to re-break all the miss healed bones in your leg and repair the damage done by Mr Moonlord. I was quite surprised when you lasted until the second casting of the spell. I understand that was quite painful for you and I do apologise. That leg is now healed but you do need to rest it. So, no exercises for the next few weeks. The cast is on to make sure you don't damage the bones before your body finishes strengthening and healing them."

"How long do I have to have the cast on?"

"Just this week hopefully. But we will check next Saturday to make sure. It will be a matter of taking the cast off and then if necessary, putting it back on again. However, if you rest as I have said that should not be the case. You also need to add more calcium to your diet. The stronger we can make your bones the better off you will be".

"I'll make sure of it" Erlendur stated.

"Good shall we talk about this morning Harry" Dr Vang looked at him.

"I said I had a headache".

"You did not say how bad it was and tried to pass it off as nothing to Nurse Val. I do believe you have been warned several times about telling us when you were ill. I also believe you were told that next time you would be put up to twice-a-week checks".

"But I told. This isn't fair I can look after myself!"

"You are 12 years old Harry. No, you can't look after yourself. Looking after yourself also goes with getting medical help when you need it" Erlendur almost seemed to sigh and growl at the same time. Harry looked at the hostel head. He had never seen the man truly mad, and Harry didn't want to.

"Erlendur is right Harry. We can, will and are putting you on extra checks until you start working with us. We need to know when you are ill. If you are not going to tell us, then we shall check ourselves. There are your nightmares to deal with and you still haven't chosen a therapist for next term."

"I agreed to therapy next term".

"Yet you haven't chosen anyone and are running out of time before they are picked for you. Harry, you need to look after yourself. That means saying when you are ill, make sure you eat enough and get enough sleep. That means exercises which you do admittedly do. It also means asking for help when you need it. You need help with the nightmares, you need help with your purification baths. Harry, there is nothing wrong with needing help".

"I can look after myself. I've been doing it for years. Yes, I have changed schools and you say I am a kid but that doesn't change anything. I hate being a sensitive. You lot are no better than the Dursleys in some ways".

"Oh, so we are better in others that's an improvement. In what ways are we different?" Dr Vang asked, and Harry flinched backwards.

"I'm not talking about them to you".

"Yet you brought it up. If you want to talk about them at any time, I am willing to listen. I bet Erlendur is as well".

"Yes, I am."

"Your mad so why should I."

"I'm not mad Harry just frustrated. You need to start listening to us. Everything that is happening you have been warned about. But I bet you didn't believe that it would actually happen and now it is. If you listen things can change. However, you need to talk to us, tell us when you don't like something, and we will talk about it. But that doesn't mean things will change straight away. Tell us we will say if you do this then we can do this. You need to meet us part way, Harry".

"Adults never listen".

"We do listen" Dr Vang picked up from Erlendur "But sometimes it feels like you don't listen Harry. I often think teenagers and adults talk two different languages. Especially at your age. You just need to talk to us." Harry didn't say anything. He was talking and they weren't listening again. "Alright. Twice a week checks from now on. The second will happen on Tuesdays with Dr Lilja and Anthony. Tuesdays are my normal day off, but you will be in good hands. Come in the morning and then all being well you can go home in the afternoon. No need to stay over. The only time you will need to is if one of your results comes back saying you are ill. Baths more frequently please and showers every week if possible".

"I'm already saying baths every two weeks" Erlendur stated. "When is his next vaccination?"

"Next week. I want to do a more in-depth medical once that cast comes off before you go back to school. If possible, I want to do the bones in your primary arm as well. You also need to pick someone for therapy this week ideally".

"You can do that with Isur tomorrow" Erlendur responded.

"But he will be back in Italy!"

"No, he won't. I spoke to Isur about his sister and Isur knows his parents aren't changing their minds. He is spending the holidays with us".

"But..."

"No buts Harry this is Isurs choice to make not yours. If things had been different, we would have sorted something or worked around it. You can't make choices for other people. Those are theirs to make".

"Your making choices for me!"

"Because you are not thinking about yourself and your own health. As has been pointed out as well. You are 12 and can only make so many decisions. Isur is 15 things are a bit different for him." Erlendur stated, and Harry crossed his arms leaning back in his wheelchair. He hated being young.

"Very well" Dr Vang nodded. "So, therapist, showers, baths, vaccinations, medical check, leg, headache. Anything else... Ah yes how are you wanting to handle Harry returning to the hostel or is he to spend the holidays here?"

"Yes, how is our little vampire problem?" Erlendur looked at him and Harry shrugged. He wasn't going to talk to them anymore. "Not talking now then. Dr Vang?"

"From reports this morning Harry spent an hour in the lounge. It took a bit to become comfortable, but he managed. That is probably as good as it is going to get, and he just needs time".

"Agreed. Well, then you can come to the hostel Harry. But as per our rules, you need someone with you all the time. This is in case you have a panic attack but also in case you fall, or something happens. It is a safety thing and not up for debate. So, pick someone and I will ask, or someone will be decided for you. You also need someone linked into your band for the holidays".

"My recommendation for that one is two people. The band swaps between them. It is better with three. But you can work well with two. In my experience just having one person makes that person tired and grumpy. Things then go backwards rather than forwards."

"Very well. Two people then. Any ideas Harry for a helper and the two for the band?" Harry looked away. He didn't need help. He didn't need anyone. At least at the Dursleys, he could do his own thing if he got the chores done. The only good thing about being away from the Dursleys was being away from Dudley hitting him. Not being called names was nice as was the endless chores. But Harry was coming to realise how much freedom he had lost in leaving them. At the moment the trade-off wasn't worth it.

"I'll sort it then. So tomorrow morning at about 10am someone will come and get you. That all good?" Erlendur looked at Dr Vang who nodded.

"Sounds all good. So, Dr Lilja will see you Tuesday morning and then I will see you next Saturday. You'll say overnight to Sunday this week. In a week or two I want you on Friday for the extra scans but not yet."

"Come on Harry. Bye Dr Vang"

"See you"

Harry found himself pulled out of the room and then pushed back to the wing. Erlendur didn't leave him at the door though and instead took him to his room.

"Harry I am not angry at you".

"Yeah, you are. You were mad when you arrived".

"No, I am frustrated but not mad. Remember the hostel is a family and I am here for you Harry. But lots of teenagers or pre-teens don't get along with their guardians or parents. We bug about homework, health, and school. We put rules in place that you might not like. This is all part of growing up."

"I wish I was back with the Dursleys".

"No, you don't. You just want a few things back from the Dursleys. They didn't care about you properly. The Dursleys just wanted a house-elf or slave to do everything for them. You are not a house-elf or their slave. I bet you don't miss the endless chores or the one who hit you. Have a think, Harry. What did you most want as a child? Did you want someone to care? A parent? Something like your cousin had. Were the Dursleys better than what you have now or are you just mad? Have a think, Harry. If you are unhappy with me, I'll speak to the Headmistress and the ICW about finding you somewhere else. But I don't think you will be allowed to return to the Dursleys. And anyone else will simply treat you the same as I am now. See you tomorrow," Erlendur stood and left.

Harry sighed and pushed himself over to the window. Erlendur was right. As a child, all he had wanted was for his parents to love him like the Dursleys had loved Dudley. Someone to care for when he was ill, who wanted his Mother's Day cards. Someone who would hang his handmade ornaments on the tree at Christmas. But he had never got that, never would. His parents were gone for good. And as good as the hostel was, they could never replace the years he had lost. He had grown too much. Harry knew he could never be the child in the cupboard anymore, wishing for something he could never have. Not to mention if he did leave the Hostel where would he go. In some families, he would be the orphan boy or the boy who lived. He didn't want that either.

"I just want to be Harry, the same as everyone else" he whispered. Magere was so much better than Hogwarts. There he was Harry. But he was also Harry the former Hogwarts student. That was a label as much as the boy who lived. One he would probably never shift. Would he ever be just Harry to anyone? He was to Tabitha and the others at the Hostel. If he left the hostel, would he have to leave them as well? Why did everything have to be so hard? Harry liked his room at the Hostel and liked his friends. He just didn't want everyone controlling him, nagging at him and making decisions for him. He wasn't a kid and never had been.