Ok, this is the beginning of a brand new story I've been writing. I'm not sure how well I'll be able to pull this off but I'll do my best. Tell me what you think!

Harry Potter was running. Sprinting down long corridors and ducking through secret passageways, unsure of where he was going only trying to get away. A silvery Cloak of Invisibility clung to his body as he ran, nothing could see him but his panting and heavy footfalls made it easy for any searching ears to spot him.

It was nearing midnight on December 25th, at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Harry had just celebrated his first ever Christmas with his best friend, Ron Weasley. After living with the Dursleys for ten years, and being forced to watch as his overweight cousin, Dudley, was showered with gifts, he had finally gotten a present of his own.

It was an Invisibility Cloak that had belonged to his father. Desperate to use it, Harry had snuck out in the middle of the night to look for books on Nicholas Flamel…in the Restricted Section of the school Library.

Unfortunately, the first book he'd pulled off the shelf started screaming when he opened it. In a fit of panic, Harry fled the Library, invisibly running past Filch and into the castle. And now he found himself lost in the bowels of the ancient school.

Finally, after running for what seemed like hours, he collapsed in exhaustion. Panting heavily, he looked around hoping for a familiar landmark to tell him where he was. The hall he sat in was long and lit only by the occasional torch. There were no windows or even a suit of armor.

He quickly discovered that he was completely lost. "Oh great, now what am I supposed to do," Harry wondered to himself.

Standing back up, he started walking down the hallway he stood in. It quickly came to a dead end, with a large tapestry hanging on the wall. It was a depiction of four very familiar people, all riding on the backs of magnificent dragons.

The first man wore a red and gold tunic under metal armor. Around his shoulders was a red cloak and on his breastplate was the Gryffindor crest. He rode on a ruby red Dragon and wielded a sword that was colored identical to the dragon's scales. Embedded into the pommel of the magnificent sword was a diamond the same color as the sword itself.

Next to him was a tall and regal looking woman with long black hair and an intelligent expression on her face. She was wearing a similar outfit to the first, except it was blue and bronze. The Ravenclaw crest shone on her breastplate and a small Tiara wrested upon her head. Her dragon was the color of Sapphire, as was her sword and the diamond imbedded in the pommel.

Next to her was a slightly stouter looking woman with red hair tied up in a bun on her head. Her outfit was dyed yellow and black and she bore the Hufflepuff crest upon her breastplate. She rode atop a bright yellow dragon and wielded a yellow sword matching her dragon with a golden yellow diamond placed in the pommel.

Lastly was a slightly older man, garbed in Slytherin House's colors of green and silver and with the Slytherin crest upon his breastplate. His bright green sword matched the emerald scales of his Dragon, as did the diamond imbedded into the swords pommel.

Even with Professor Binns' horrible teaching, Harry knew who these people were. Godric Gryffindor, Rowena Ravenclaw, Helga Hufflepuff, and Salazar Slytherin; the four founders of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

After studying the tapestry for a few moments, Harry pulled it aside to reveal a hidden passageway in the wall. Walking down the passage, he discovered a large stone room with a dais in the center. Around the wall were several closed doors, making Harry think that this was one of the lost towers. Sitting on the dais, on a silk cushion was a large, oval-shaped golden stone.

On the wall directly opposite him, on the other side of the dais, were four alcoves. In each one, sat a large gem like stone that seemed to pulse with energy. One was red, one blue, one yellow, and one green, identical to the four dragons that the tapestry depicted the founders riding on.

Stepping into the room, Harry found himself being drawn to the stone on the dais. Almost without realizing it, he grabbed it and cradled it in his arms. He could feel a slight sense of warmth coming from his fingers, similar to when his wand chose him but somehow diluted.

Harry gave a start at the stone suddenly bucked in his hands and he dropped it. It landed on the stone floor with a dull thunk; Harry could hear a slight echo emanating from it, indicating it was hollow.

The stone was still for several moments and Harry was beginning to think he'd gone crazy when it rocked again. Harry could hear scratching sounds coming from the stone and cracks started to form.

That was when Harry realized that it wasn't a stone, but a large golden egg. And the egg was hatching.

He scooted closer, wondering what on earth could hatch from such an enormous egg. "Well, I guess I'll find out soon enough," he mumbled to himself.

The scratching continued, more cracks formed and grew larger; the air was permeated by the occasional squeak. Finally after a minute of waiting, the egg shattered and its occupant came tumbling out.

Harry gasped at what he saw. It stood on four legs, was covered in golden scales that seemed to shimmer, a pair of leathery wings sprouted form its back, and when it opened its eyes, a pair of golden orbs started looking around in curiosity.

It was a dragon, a real live dragon.

Once the hatchling had fully taken in its surroundings, it turned it full attention to Harry and locked eyes with him. Harry released a sharp intake of breath as his emerald eyes met the dragon's gold ones. As Harry stared, he could see, behind the childlike curiosity, an ancient and deep wisdom beyond its years.

Without realizing it, Harry found himself reaching out a hand towards the dragon. When his hand was an inch away from the golden head, the dragon sniffed it before darting its head into Harry's palm.

Instantly, a surge of icy energy raced up his arm. It burned through his veins and down his body; searching, judging, binding. After what felt like hours of anguish the pain dissipated and he found himself gasping on the floor.

He struggled to sit up and looked at his hand. It shimmered slightly as a silver oval formed in the center of his palm. It tingled slightly, reminding Harry of the feeling of casting magic.

The dragon came up to him and stared at him with those big curious eyes. A tendril of thought brushed up against his consciousness, and he could feel a ravenous hunger mixed with curiosity invading his mind.

He looked down at the dragon in wonder. It stared back, even as its stomach rumbled.

Harry looked at it sadly, "I don't have any food with me, sorry," he told the dragon. It made a whining sound as its stomach growled again.

Harry sighed, "I wonder if there's any turkey left over from dinner," he mumbled to himself. Almost as soon as he said it, one of the lesser-eaten Christmas turkeys from the feast appeared with a loud pop.

The golden creature wasted no time in launching itself at the bird. It began voraciously tearing at the meat and swallowing it down, bones and all.

Harry stared at the sight with a revolted curiosity as his mind was hit with sensations of happiness and contentment as the hunger abated. It was as if a barrier around his mind had fallen away, and he could now stretch his mind out into the world around him.

Harry spread his consciousness throughout the room. The dragon's mind had a very alien feel, yet at the same time was oddly comforting. He could feel a connection between the dragon and himself, almost like a tendril of magic, binding them together.

As Harry realized this, he felt not fear, but comfort. It was as if a piece of himself that had been missing his entire life had finally returned. He felt whole and at peace.

As the dragon finished its meal, it walked up and curled onto Harry's lap, butting its head against his hand to be petted. He began absently petting the dragon as he cast his mind around the room again.

As his mind touched the four stones ensconced in the far wall, they reacted quite violently. An almost physical force slammed against his consciousness, forcing Harry to flee back to the safety of his own mind.

The little dragon, feeling his distress, leapt out of his arms and hissed at the stones.

It is not safe to go wandering into the minds of other beings without proper knowledge, a voice suddenly said within his mind. It was one of the voices that had led him here.

"I'm sorry, I didn't realize," Harry said, scooping the dragon back into his arms. He stared at the stones in amazement, he was sure that they were the origin of the voices.

You are correct young one, another voice said. This one was female, whereas the first was male.

"Why did you bring me here?" Harry asked, he started ranting questions like Hermione would, "How can you talk? What's with the baby dragon? Why were the Founder's riding on dragons? What…"

Calm yourself little one, a new male voice said.

Be at peace and we will explain, the fourth and final voice said, this one also female.

I am Virtus, Dragon bonded to Godric Gryffindor, the first male voice said. Harry had a strong suspicion that it was the red stone talking.

I am Sophia, Dragon bonded to Rowena Ravenclaw, the second female voice spoke. Harry eyed the blue stone.

I am Callidus, Dragon bonded to Salazar Slytherin, the second male voice introduced. Most likely the green stone.

I am Aequalis, Dragon bonded to Helga Hufflepuff, said the first female voice, coming from the yellow stone.

And you, they all said as one, are a Dragon Rider.

Harry blinked, "I'm a what?" he asked incredulously.

Close your eyes and open your mind, they instructed, all speaking at once, and we will tell you the story of the Dragon Riders.

Harry did as he was told and soon felt four different minds touching his own. Images of ancient wars filled his thoughts. An order of elves and humans, each bonded to a large and majestic dragon.

Over millennia ago, in a land known as Alagaësia, a great war broke out between the ancient races of elves and dragons. Many battles were fought in this never-ending conflict and no end appeared in sight.

Eventually, an elf by the name of Eragon discovered a single abandoned dragon egg. He raised the hatchling himself and bonded to it, becoming the first of the order of Dragon Riders.

Together they created a long lasting peace between the two warring races as more riders were formed. Eventually, when humans arrived at Alagaësia they became riders as well. Peace reigned for centuries as the riders guarded over civilization.

Over time, the riders fell and rose many times over; each time, spreading further across the planet.

The last fall, was during what you humans no call the Middle Ages. The human's new religion caused them to hunt down and destroy all forms of magic. All magicians that they could find were burned at the stake, whether they could actually perform magic or not.

Eventually, the four greatest riders of the time came together to form Hogwarts. As the four founders were born as witches and wizards before they bonded to dragons, they opened the school to all magic users.

Eventually the Muggles discovered the existence of Hogwarts and attempted to storm the castle. In order to protect their students, the founders, who were now the last Dragon Riders, sacrificed themselves to empower the strongest wards in existence.

We four were once the great dragons you saw on the tapestry guarding his chamber. In order to safeguard this castle, we disgorged our Eldunarí, that is our Heart of Hearts, and stowed them in this room.

Rowena, Godric, Salazar, and Helga then all went to the four sides of the castle and poured every last bit of their magic and lifeforce into an impenetrable rune scheme that would defend the grounds from assault. Their very spirits fused into the castle itself. However, their bodies died and, because of the Rider bond, so did ours.

Harry's eyes opened as the four dragons left his mind. He stared at the four pulsing stones in absolute awe, unable to say anything as his mind tried to absorb everything he'd seen.

Ancient and eternal, the dragon riders were the most powerful magic users in existence. Bonding with the dragons granted them access to a more powerful form of magic that could outstrip any normal wizard in moments.

Finally, he said the only thing he could, "What now?"

Now, we will train you, they said, but not tonight. Go back to sleep and come back tomorrow after breakfast and we will begin your training.

"Ok, but what about him?" he asked, referring to the dragon that was now sleeping in his arms. "I can't exactly go wandering around the school with a Dragon in my arms, can I?"

No, it has been illegal to own dragons in Britain since the 1700's they said. One of the doors along the wall suddenly opened. Go inside.

Harry gasped as he stepped into the room. It was a massive armory.

One wall was covered in swords of all types. There were traditional English broadswords, rapiers, daggers, and more weapons than Harry could name.

On the back wall were a collection of bows, each beautifully crafted by hand, and a literal horde of arrows. On the other wall were several cabinets and chests.

The Eldunarí directed Harry to one of the cabinets. He opened the second drawer to discover it full of small woven bands.

These are collars for your dragon to wear, The Eldunarí explained, They have powerful Notice-Me-Not and Repellent wards woven into the fabric. Once you put this on your dragon, you'll be able to walk through the school and no one will notice him.

However it will only last a year, after that the dragon's inner magic begins to interfere with the ward and cancels it out. At that point, any wizard or even squib will be able to see him, but he will still be invisible to Muggles. By then however, you'll have a suitable place for him to live out of the castle's sight.

Harry nodded absently as he slipped one of the collars over the dragon's head.

He was then directed to a different drawer in the next cabinet. This one had an assortment of wand holsters. Following the Eldunarí's instructions, he grabbed a holster and touched it to the dragon's back. The leather shell was replaced with a golden scaly design that matched the dragon's scales.

Harry strapped it to his arm and slipped his wand inside. Exiting the armory, he turned just in time to see it close behind him.

Only with our permission can that room be opened, this protects it from anyone who stumbles into this room.

"But what about you?" Harry asked.

There is a very powerful ward around us so that none may remove us without direct permission.

Now, there is one last thing before you go to bed. You must name your Dragon.

Harry started. He hadn't even thought of giving him a name. He thought for a few minutes, bouncing names around. Most were shot down by the dragon.

Finally, "How about Apollo, after the Greek God of the Sun?"

The Dragon considered it for a moment, before nodding.

Harry smiled, "Apollo it is then."

-scene break-

Harry awoke the late the next morning. He was back in his bed in the Gryffindor Dormitory. The curtains were drawn around his bed and his dragon was sleeping in the crook of his arm.

"Hey buddy," Harry said as Apollo opened his eyes. He stood up and bounced around the bed, making growling noises. Ravenous hunger made its way across the bond, and Harry knew he wanted to eat.

"Lets head down to the kitchens," Harry suggested, "I'm sure the elves will have something for you."

"Harry? Who're you talking to?" a voice said from across the room.

Harry looked up to see Neville standing in the doorway. He was looking at him in confusion.

"I'm talking to you," Harry said.

Neville blinked, "but, what about before?" he asked, uncertainly.

"Before what?" Harry asked.

"Before…uh, never mind," he finally said, "You said you were going to the kitchens?"

Harry nodded, "Yeah, I figure breakfast would be over by now," he said as he changed out of his pajamas.

Neville nodded in confirmation, "Do you even know where they are?" he asked uncertainly.

"Uh huh," Harry replied as he placed his wand in its holster. "They're downstairs, near the Hufflepuff common room. I've got a friend who told me how to find them."

Apollo jumped from the bed and flapped his wings slightly so that he would glide up to Harry's shoulder. The Rider adjusted slightly for the extra weight and stuffed his invisibility cloak into his pocket.

"Do you want to come with me? I could use the company and I doubt this useless lump will wake for another couple of hours," Harry gestured to the snoring redhead who was his best friend.

"Sure," Neville agreed, "I missed breakfast too."

Together they made their way through the castle. The little dragon was craning his neck, trying to look at everything at once. Harry would explain about everything he could over the bond.

Because it was still the Christmas Holiday's, very few students were in the corridors. They made their way to the entrance hall and Harry guided Neville to the staircase that led down towards the Hufflepuff Basement.

Stopping at a large painting of a bowl of fruit, Harry shot Neville a cheeky grin before tickling the pear in the bowl. It started giggling and wiggling before turning into a large door handle.

Harry pulled the painting aside to reveal an enormous room, at least as big as the Great Hall above it. Lining the walls were dozens upon dozens of pots and pans heaped on top of one another.

Apollo leapt from Harry's shoulder and immediately attacked a plate of raw that was sitting in a corner. Harry had a feeling that the elves left it there for him, but they either didn't notice him or just ignored him for the moment.

Immediately, several elves came rushing up to Harry and Neville, asking if they can be of service.

"We woke up a bit late for breakfast…" Harry began. Before he could even finish, he and Neville were herded to a nearby table that was promptly layered with piles of breakfast foods.

Neville gave Harry an amused grin, apparently used to the House Elves' antics. They started eating and quickly struck up a conversation about the Herbology assignment that Professor Sprout had assigned them over the Holiday. Harry quickly discovered that Neville was an absolute genius when it came to the subject.

Harry started slightly as Apollo jumped back onto his shoulder. He was much heavier now that he'd eaten, but not overly so.

Over the bond, Harry received flashes of the castle from the Dragon's memories and a sense of curiosity. Apollo wanted to go exploring again.

Harry subtly excused himself from the conversation with Neville and left the kitchens. He and Apollo then wandered about the corridors for several hours, exploring behind tapestries and around suits of armor.

The little dragon was really curious, constantly bounding around and sticking his head in everything he could find. Harry was really glad he couldn't breath fire yet.

At some point, Harry made his way back to the Eldunarí room so that they could continue their lessons.

Welcome back Harry, Apollo, the Eldunarí greeted as the two entered the room. Today we shall begin teaching you the Ancient Language. First however, there is something we must discuss with you.

We have a unique bond to the castle. Everything that a painting or suit of armor or statue sees or hears, we can see or hear.

When you entered our walls for the first time, the egg immediately reacted to your presence and we knew that it had chosen you to be its bonded, another said.

But before we could allow you to bond, you had to prove yourself worthy.

So we watched you.

You are an intelligent young man, Sophia said.

You have a big heart and will never betray those who you call friends, said Aequalis.

You are brave in the face of danger and willing to charge into battle for the sake of innocents, said Virtus.

You are also very cunning and sly; I see how you deliberately moderate yourself. What I don't understand is why? Callidus asked.

At this Harry lowered his head in shame. "Whenever I did better that my cousin in school, my relatives would punish me severely. Ever since the first time, I've been purposefully getting bad marks while learning all I can to avoid more punishment.

"I suppose that its such an engrained habit that don't even realize I'm doing it, now that my relatives won't care how good or bad I do here."

The Eldunarí were silent for a moment.

That is not the complete truth, they finally said. You are afraid that you will lose your two friends if you do better than them in class.

Harry opened his mouth to deny it…then stopped. They were right he realized.

We understand that you do not want to lose their friendship Harry, but you must realize that true friends would support you doing your best just as you do for them. From now on, don't hold back anymore, prove to the Wizarding world just how powerful you truly are.

Harry nodded, "I will."

Excellent, now onto your lessons.

The Ancient Language is the original language spoken by the peoples of Alagaësia, known as the Grey Folk. After several accidents in casting magic through the mind, they bound magic to their spoken Language in order to control it better.

All Rider magic is utilized by speaking in the Ancient Language. It is impossible to lie when speaking in this language.

Harry was lectured on the Ancient Language for the rest of the day, and somewhat into the night. The House Elves delivered a late lunch and dinner to the room for Harry and Apollo to eat while they learned.

In between lessons, they would tell Harry stories about his parents while they were at Hogwarts. The infamous marauders and their amazing map of the grounds. Harry listened eagerly; finally able to learn something about his parents other than how alike he looked compared to them.

Eventually, Harry made his way back to Gryffindor Tower. It was already past curfew, but Harry had his invisibility cloak so he covered himself as he walked down the corridors. He kept his mind open as he walked, keeping clear of any minds he detected nearby.

Back in the common room, Harry found Ron waiting for him and struggling to stay awake.

"Hey Ron," Harry said as he walked past and up the stairs to the dormitories.

"Harry!" Ron shouted in surprise. He hurried after his friend, "Where've you been mate? I've been looking all over for you."

"Oh exploring," Harry shrugged, "You were still asleep when I woke up so I just let you have a lie in."

"Um thanks mate," Ron said uncertainly.

By now they had reached their dorm room. Apollo glided down from Harry's shoulder and scampered over to their bed.

You look like a dog when you do that, he commented over the bond. The dragon snorted at him with a haughty look on his face, even as a sense of indignation radiated from him. He shook his head at his dragon's antics, as he got ready for bed.

"Hey Harry," Ron whispered to him once he was finished getting ready for bed, "What do you say we take this Invisibility cloak you got and search in the restricted section for Flamel?"

Harry shook his head, "I did that last night, don't want to do it again. The book started screaming at me when I opened it."

"What?" Ron asked indignantly, "You went without me?"

"I tried to wake you up," Harry said, "But you wouldn't budge."

His expression didn't change but his ears did turn slightly red. Finally, "Whatever, night Harry."

Harry smiled, "Goodnight Ron," he said as Apollo snuggled against him.

Over the rest of the Holiday, Harry fell into a routine. In the morning, he would hang out with Ron and whenever possible Neville (which became more frequent as time went on). Then after lunch, he would sneak off to explore the castle and bond with Apollo.

Occasionally, Harry would go down to the Quidditch pitch and go for a fly with Apollo. At the moment he was still too young to actually fly on his own power other than gliding up to the bed.

Clinging to Harry's back as he flew on the Nimbus 2000, the dragon would flap his wings and let out growls and snarls of delight. Across the bond, Harry would interpret what the dragon wanted and adjust his flying to match.

After a few hours, he would make his way down to the Eldunarí chamber to continue his training. Then back to the Tower, usually after curfew. Luckily, Harry had taken to keeping his Cloak on him at all times.

Ron would meet him in the common room and complain about him disappearing all afternoon. Harry would make vague comments and completely confuse Ron then they would go to sleep.

On the last day of the Holiday's Harry finally remembered the reason he'd been out of bed on the first night and asked the Eldunarí if they knew who Nicholas Flamel was.

He's an Alchemist, they said, one of the most celebrated geniuses in the field. Over Six Hundred years ago, he created what is known as the Philosopher's Stone. A legendary substance that can transform any metal into pure gold and create the Elixir of Life.

He and his wife are the closest a human can get to being immortal without being a Rider.

Harry nodded, not at all surprised that they would know whom the Wizard was. Then the last part registered in his mind. "Immortal?" he stuttered at the glowing stones, "I'm immortal?"

Yes, you can be killed of course, and your body can be injured, but once you reach full growth, you'll stop aging. Assuming that neither you nor your Dragon is killed in battle or by disease, you both will live for the rest of eternity.

Harry sat down hard as he tried to process what he was just told. He was immortal; he would outlive all of his friends.

Sensing his Rider's distress, Apollo woke from his nap and crawled into Harry's arms. Harry's hand automatically started stroking the sleek golden scales of his bonded.

He smiled down at Apollo; at least he wouldn't be alone.

Never.

Harry's breath caught in his throat. That was Apollo who'd just spoken, it was his first word. Harry's smile got bigger and he hugged the dragon, which hummed in happiness.

Go and rest young one, the Eldunarí spoke, you have classes tomorrow. This time, there will be no excuse for slacking.

Harry ducked his head as he pulled The Invisibility Cloak over himself and Apollo. Hurrying back to the Common Room, Harry found both Ron and Hermione waiting for him. They both looked angry.

Harry gulped as he saw his friends. Apollo started making funny wheezing sounds that Harry recognized as laughing. He scowled at the Dragon.

Knowing he'd have to face the music, Harry pulled the cloak off, "Hey guys."

Hermione jumped slightly, obviously not expecting Harry to be invisible. Ron just rolled his eyes.

"Where have you been?" Hermione hissed, "It's past curfew, if Filch had caught you…"

"He wouldn't have," Harry interrupted, "No one can see past my Invisibility Cloak."

"But still Harry, you shouldn't be out after hours," she said.

"Whatever," Harry said dismissively as he stuffed the cloak in a pocket, "Listen I found out who Flamel is."

The both went wide-eyed, "Really? How?" Hermione asked.

"Who is he?" Ron asked.

Harry smirked slightly, the perfect distraction. Ignoring Hermione's second question, he said, "He's an alchemist from the fourteenth century. Creator of the Philosopher's Stone."

Hermione's eyes widened to epic proportions as she realized what Harry was saying.

"What's the Philosopher's Stone?" Ron asked, "And how can he be working with Dumbledore if he's been dead for century's?"

"Oh honestly Ron," Hermione said impatiently, "Don't you ever read? The Philosopher's Stone is a legendary artifact that is capable of turning any metal into gold and producing the Elixir of Life."

"Meaning," Harry continued, "That Flamel is immortal as long as he continues to drink the Elixir. He's over six hundred years old and still kicking."

Something he and I now have in common, Harry thought. Apollo silently agreed.

-Scene break-

The next day classes started again, the only difference was that Harry refused to continue holding himself back.

His homework assignments were now on par with Hermione's, much to her surprise. He was now competing with Hermione to be the first to master a spell in class. Instead of feeling threatened and angry like Harry feared she would be, Hermione seemed to appreciate that there was someone who could challenge her.

One night, Hermione had confronted him about his change. He told her the same thing he'd told the Eldunarí.

"Oh Harry," Hermione said once he'd finished, "You shouldn't be afraid of getting good marks."

"I know, and I guess that I was also a little scared you'd hate me if I started outdoing you in class," he said to her, out of Ron's earshot.

Her eyes widened, then she looked down in shame. "To tell the truth, I probably would have at the beginning of the year. But now we're friends, and I don't want to let even something as important as school get in between that."

Harry beamed at her.

"It's actually kind of refreshing," she continued, "having someone who can challenge me. It keeps me striving to do better."

Harry had taken to sitting down next to Neville when they were doing their homework. The Herbology prodigy would help Harry with anything green, and in turn Harry worked with Neville on understanding the theory behind much of their charms and transfiguration spell work.

Hermione had tried to tutor him before, but she tended to start spouting the textbook verbatim instead of helping them understand what it meant. Harry was able to break it down and explain it to Neville in simpler terms, which the boy was immensely grateful for.

Perhaps the greatest change was Harry's Potions abilities. With Apollo's support, his new mental abilities, and the Eldunarí's training Harry was able to completely ignore Snape's hovering during class and focus solely on the potion. He'd started reading ahead before class and focused on understanding how the ingredients reacted with each other in the potion. All this combined made Harry an excellent brewer.

However, a new problem quickly developed regarding the Potions Master. As Snape stormed into the classroom on the first day back, Harry looked up and made eye contact with him. Instantly, he felt Snape's mind trying to infiltrate his own.

Carefully hiding his surprise, Harry refocused on his cauldron before the greasy bat could encounter his still developing mental barriers. The moment he broke eye contact, the mental probe vanished.

Apollo was very excited for when the Quidditch season would start again. Fly Fly Fly he kept saying. Harry knew that he wanted to start learning how to fly on his own power.

During practice Harry would go through his drills on the broom while Apollo stayed on the ground, practicing flying. Occasionally, Harry would send him advice over the link but he kept most of his attention of searching for the snitch.

It was a very troubled Harry that made his way back to the Common Room that evening. Looking around, Harry spotted Ron and Hermione playing chess in a corner.

"Don't talk to me for a moment," said Ron when Harry sat down next to him, "I need to concen—" He caught sight of Harry's face.

"What's the matter with you? You look terrible."

Speaking quietly so that no one else would hear, Harry told the other two about Snape's sudden, sinister desire to be a Quidditch referee.

"Don't play," said Hermione at once.

"Say you're ill," said Ron.

"Pretend to break your leg," Hermione suggested.

"Really break your leg," said Ron.

"I can't," said Harry. "There isn't a reserve Seeker. If I back out, Gryffindor can't play at all."

At that moment Neville toppled into the common room. How he had managed to climb through the portrait hole was anyone's guess, because his legs had been stuck together with what they recognized at once as the Leg-Locker Curse. He must have had to bunny hop all the way up to Gryffindor tower.

Everyone fell over laughing except Hermione, who leapt up and performed the countercurse. Neville's legs sprang apart and he got to his feet, trembling. "What happened?" Hermione asked him, leading him over to sit with Harry and Ron.

"Malfoy," said Neville shakily. "I met him outside the library. He said he'd been looking for someone to practice that on."

"Go to Professor McGonagall!" Hermione urged Neville. "Report him!"

Neville shook his head.

"I don't want more trouble," he mumbled.

"You've got to stand up to him, Neville!" said Ron. "He's used to walking all over people, but that's no reason to lie down in front of him and make it easier."

"There's no need to tell me I'm not brave enough to be in Gryffindor, Malfoy's already done that," Neville choked out.

Harry felt in the pocket of his robes and pulled out a Chocolate Frog, the very last one from the box Hermione had given him for Christmas. He gave it to Neville, who looked as though he might cry.

"You're worth twelve of Malfoy," Harry said. "The Sorting Hat chose you for Gryffindor, didn't it? And where's Malfoy? In stinking Slytherin."

Neville's lips twitched in a weak smile as he unwrapped the frog.

"Thanks, Harry… I think I'll go to bed… D'you want the card, you collect them, don't you?"

Harry shook his head, "Not any more." Just then, a very dangerous looking glint appeared in his eyes. "Follow me," he said.

He leaped to his feet and made his way across the common room towards where Fred and George were quietly whispering to each other.

"Harry what are you doing?" Neville asked as he struggled to keep up with Harry.

"I've just been waiting for the opportunity to do this," Harry said more to himself then Neville.

He stalked right up to the twins, "I need to talk to you two for a moment."

"Absolutely…" one began.

"What can we do…" the other continued.

"For our favorite…"

"Star Seeker?"

Harry grinned evilly and said, "The son of Prongs and heir to the Marauders solemnly swears he is up to no good and wishes to impose upon the Weasley Twins to perpetrate a well deserved prank upon everyone's least favorite Slytherin."

The entire Common Room, which had gone silent as the Harry Potter stood, watched as the Infamous Weasley Terrors fainted in their seats.

Harry's grin grew wider; Yes, my first prank and I got the Weasley Twins to boot.

That was funny, Apollo said, laughing along with Harry. He still had problems speaking in full sentences but was getting better.

Harry turned back to Neville, "Once they wake up, Malfoy won't know what hit him."

Unfortunately, they didn't wake up at all that night, and none of the other Lions were brave enough to risk waking up the twin terrors.

That night, after enduring a lecture about pranking from Hermione, Harry and Apollo snuck out of the common room under his cloak.

Up to this point, Harry had been too engrossed with learning to be a Dragon Rider and the Ancient Language to question the Eldunarí about the Stone and Snape. He was going to change that tonight.

Entering the Eldunarí chamber, Harry extended his mind to the Eldunarí and gave the traditional greeting in the ancient language.

You have a question for us, they stated.

Harry nodded, "Yes Ebrithil," he went on to explain his theory about Snape's wish to steal the Stone.

Hmm, yes we see why you would suspect Severus, but he has no wish to steal the Philosopher's Stone hidden inside of the castle.

Harry frowned, "If not Snape then why was he trying to get past that three-headed dog on Halloween?"

He was not, Professor Quirrell was. Quirrell released the Troll into the castle as a diversion so that he could attempt to steal the stone. He was unable to bypass the Cerberus however. Professor Snape attempted to stop Quirrell himself, however he was bitten.

"But, Professor Quirrell is completely pathetic, how could he hope to get past the protections around the stone? And why for that matter?"

That is something we have not been able to figure out. The Defense Against the Dark Arts Professor is surrounded by a horde of concealment wards. Do not worry for now, continue with your training and we will monitor the situation.

Harry nodded, "Yes Ebrithil. There is something else however, today during Potions, Snape attempted to enter my mind, fortunately he was unsuccessful."

Yes we know, both he and Professor Dumbledore have routinely practiced Legilimency upon the students for years. Fortunately, this form of mind magic is limited to eye contact and soon your barriers will be impenetrable.

Now, today we are going to start teaching you what's known as the Rimgar, or the Dance of Snake and Crane. This will help you build your strength and flexibility for when you begin learning the sword.

Harry nodded and began doing the exercises as images of what to do passed through his mind. It was difficult, but Harry felt that his Quidditch practice made it slightly easier.

-scene break-

Harry awoke early the next morning, as was his new habit. Quickly taking a hot shower and getting dressed, he and Apollo went down to the common room. The Dragon was now as long as Harry was tall and continuing to get bigger every day.

As he stepped off of the last step, he suddenly found himself face to face with Fred and George.

"Were you serious…"

"Last night…"

"About being the…"

"Son of Prongs?"

Harry blinked as their sentence registered. "May I see the map gentleman?" he asked, holding his hand out.

They glanced at each other before one pulled a blank piece of parchment from his robes and placing it in Harry's hands.

The Rider glanced at it for less then a second before promptly setting it on fire with a whispered "Brisingr". Golden flames consumed the parchment within seconds but long enough that the glow from his Gedwëy Ignasia was hidden.

"I said the map, not some bit of parchment," Harry said, glaring at them.

They were staring at him in shock. "You did that without a wand," one stated.

"How?" the other asked.

Harry grinned, "You have your secrets, I have mine. Now the map!"

This time, they handed him a much older bit of parchment. Taking out his wand, Harry tapped it while saying "The son of Prongs solemnly swears that he is up to no good." Instantly writing appeared on the parchment

Messrs. Moony, Padfoot, Wormtail, and Prongs
Purveyors of Aids to Magical Mischief-Makers
Are Proud to Present to the Marauder's Heir
The Marauder's Map

Mr. Moony would like to offer his compliments to the Son of Prongs on obtaining this illustrious map.

Mr. Prongs congratulates his son on a job well done and hopes that this map will be put to good use.

Mr. Padfoot would like to encourage the Son of Prongs to prank the living daylights out of Snivellus should he find his way back to Hogwarts.

Mr. Wormtail concurs with Mr. Padfoot and would like to inform the Son of Prongs that Snivillus is Severus Snape.

"That's why Snape hates me so much," Harry groaned in exasperation.

"Look at that!" Fred said excitedly. A list of instructions had formed under the Marauder's introduction.

"Do you know what this means Gred?" Fred asked.

"Why absolutely Forge," George replied.

"We just might have a new partner in pranking," they said in unison, each holding out a hand to Harry.

Without missing a beat, Harry grabbed both hands with his own and shook them, "Gentleman we have an accord."

Just then, Neville came walking down the stairs.

"Ah Neville, come over here," Harry said to the other first year, "We were just about to plan your revenge against the great blond Ferret!"

Neville walked over wearily. Once they'd all huddled together, Harry began, "Here's what I've been thinking…"

-scene break-

A week later, Harry, Neville, and the Twins were the first to make it to the great hall. They sat in the corner of the Gryffindor table closest to the doors, facing the Great Hall. Harry pulled out a second year Potions book he'd owl ordered and began reading as Apollo curled up behind him. Neville pulled out his own Herbology book while the twins did whatever the twins did.

As the Hall slowly began to fill up, Harry occasionally glanced around to see it their quarry had arrived. At one point, Ron and Hermione stepped in and made to sit across from him.

"No, sit on this side," Harry quickly said, "Just trust me." They glanced at each other before moving over to sit on either side of him, unconsciously stepping around Apollo.

He's here, Apollo suddenly said.

Harry looked up and nudged Neville. They both put their books away and watched as Malfoy came walking in. He went to his normal seat at the Slytherin table and took a long draft from his goblet before realizing something was wrong.

Suddenly, he stood bolt upright and ran to the front of the hall until he stood in front of Dumbledore, facing the students. All of the lights went out, and a huge spotlight appeared over Malfoy. Music started ringing from the walls, and Malfoy began singing 'The Sound of Music.'

All the other students who'd taken a drink from their potion-spiked goblets suddenly stood up and started dancing between the house tables. This included Harry, Neville, Hermione and the twins. Ron was too busy eating to take a drink. Even the Professors weren't immune as they began dancing with the students. Within moments, the entire hall was dancing around and laughing,

Once 'The Sound of Music' was over, Malfoy moved on to 'Singin' in the Rain' and the enchanted ceiling began pouring illusory rain.

After running through several more Muggle songs, the potions finally wore off. Students were talking with each other and laughing, house lines seem to have been forgotten as the chaos slowly resolved itself.

Apollo had taken a great leap and now sat in the rafters after Harry had accidently stepped on his tail while under the influence of the potion. Luckily for Harry, his anger seemed to have abated as he watched the whole school make a fool of itself.

Malfoy's face with burning red with mixed emotions. He'd finally gotten the attention he believed he deserved, but it was marred by compliments to his singing voice, the embarrassment of performing in front of the whole school, and anger that those were Muggle song's he'd been singing.

Harry shared a high five with his three conspirators after having a surprisingly pleasant chat with Daphne Greengrass where he'd explained the song's origins. She seemed pleasantly surprised that they were Muggle songs and she made him promise to stop and chat with her again.

Harry was definitely going to do something like this again.

-scene break-

The day of the Hufflepuff-Gryffindor Quidditch match arrived quickly. Harry stood with the rest of his team, nervously gripping his broom and waiting for their signal to enter the pitch.

Relax Harry, Apollo said, Its just Quidditch. You've nothing to worry about.

I know, Harry replied, I'm just worried that Quirrell will try something again.

I don't think he will, why do you think Snape asked to become the ref?

That's when it hit. Snape wasn't trying to curse his broom during the first match; he was trying to save him.

See? Apollo asked, Besides, I don't think that anyone will try anything with Dumbledore here.

Harry nodded, Thanks buddy. I feel better already.

Minutes later, the teams marched out to the field and took to the sky. Harry immediately tuned out Lee's commentating as he circled the stadium, searching for the Snitch.

As he flew, he noticed that his surroundings seemed to be getting blurrier. Cursing to himself, he pulled to a stop and took his glasses off to clean them.

There! He zoomed off in a steep dive after the illusive golden ball. Flying past Snape, he snagged the Snitch out of midair before pulling out of his dive.

The crowd erupted in cheers as Harry held the snitch above his head.

Harry jumped off his broom, a foot from the ground. He couldn't believe it. He'd done it — the game was over; it had barely lasted five minutes. As Gryffindors came spilling onto the field, he saw Snape land nearby, white-faced and tight-lipped.

Harry didn't care; Gryffindor was in the lead for the cup. He quickly joined his housemates as they made their way to the Common Room for the celebratory party.

As they walked, Hermione, Ron, and Neville fought their way up to him. Hermione immediately pounced on him, hugging him for all its worth.

"Congratulations," she said, pulling away. She looked at his face and frowned, "Harry where are your glasses?" she asked.

Harry blinked as he brought a gloved hand up to touch his face. His glasses weren't there, and he could see perfectly.

"I…I don't know, I dropped them as I made that dive," he said.

"But, you can't see without your glasses," Hermione stated, "How were you able to catch the Snitch?"

"That's the thing Hermione," Harry said, "I can see. Somehow my eyes fixed themselves while I was in the air, that's why I took my glasses off, because they were making everything blurry."

"But, how's that possible?" Hermione asked incredulously.

"I don't know, it just happened," Harry said helplessly, being extra careful with his mask as Hermione eyed him suspiciously. Sometimes, it was worth it to grow up with the Dursleys. Keeping your emotions and mask in check was a necessity when dealing with Vernon.

Apollo growled as he picked up these thoughts. Sharing Harry's mind meant that he knew about his entire childhood. And he didn't like it. Harry knew that he couldn't ever bring Apollo to Private Drive, because it would be sure to go up in flames within a day.

Here it is, let me know what you think. Also, I'm going to put up a Poll on my profile, asking if I should make more character's Riders. So please go and vote, I'll leave it up for a few weeks.