The Phantom of Hogwarts

Chapter Twenty

Erik's impromptu concert earned him enthusiastic applause from his father and grandparents.

Abraham was especially pleased.

"Good to know my musical talents will not die with me. I could never get your father to sit still long enough to learn. Little scamp was always off with his pals. The mischief those lads caused is still talked about by the old timers at the pub."

Anatole did not appear repentant.

Erik's eyes grew wide, "You play?"

Abraham nodded and rose from his seat handing Anatole his cane.

Erik moved off the piano bench to make room for his grandfather.

"This is how I convinced your Gran I was a keeper." Abraham said with a grin.

Abraham's nimble fingers summoned a soft romantic melody from the piano. As Abraham played Liona stepped behind him humming softly as she laid her hands on his shoulders. At the conclusion of the song, the couple shared a soft kiss and a smile. Erik was inwardly relieved that his grandparents were happy together. The young boy had more than his fair share of experience with the effects of a strained marriage.

As Abraham struck up another soft tune, Erik found himself bombarded with numerous questions from his grandparents. When was his birthday? What did he think of Hogwarts? What subjects did he enjoy? What subjects did he not enjoy? Had he made many friends? Was he enjoying his music class? What other things did he enjoy?

Erik answered each question as best he could. His birthday was October thirty first. He thought Hogwarts was the best school. He loved his Defense Against the Dark Arts class as well as Potions and Astronomy. He was not so fond of History of Magic class or Transfiguration but he still did his best.

"Good Lord, don't tell me ole Binnie is still there? That man must have a touch of vampire blood in him. He's a decent fellow even if his class is the cure for insomnia." Abraham commented.

"You were in Professor Binns class?"

Abraham shook his head, "He was a few years ahead of me and a fellow Ravenclaw. He nabbed that teaching job right after graduation. I luckily had fulfilled my history requirement and didn't have the pleasure of sitting through his class."

"I was a little disappointed that my friends and I couldn't make him swear off teaching." Anatole muttered.

"I stopped sending Howlers to the school. Your father took them as challenges."

Erik was able to answer the rest of his grandparents' questions much easier. He had many friends at Hogwarts and was sure to mention Mordrid, Vanessa, Christine, and Jared. His music class was going well. Professor Aria had urged him to keep practicing so that he might be able to compete for the honor of first chair violinist next year. Besides music, Erik also liked to draw, read, write, and learn new things. He also admitted that he thoroughly enjoyed theatre and all of the vital components needed to create a performance.

"Erik, if you like we could take you to the Venetian Opera House this summer. We have our own private box and know many of the performers. I'm sure that they would love to meet you." Liona said with delight.

"I…I would like that very much. If it is not too much trouble."Erik answered quickly.

"It is no trouble at all, lad. We shall take you to see all parts of Venice as well as the sights of Rome and Florence. You are as much a Cordova as you are a Garron. It is only fitting that you are able to appreciate all aspects of your heritage." Abraham said firmly.

"I am eager to learn all I can. Thank you, Granddad and Grandmum." Erik replied a wide smile spreading across his face.

"You are most welcome, nipote." Liona said softly kissing her grandson's forehead.

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