"That's exactly right. Muggles currently can't detect us, but what if things continue this way? With Muggle technology advancing, they'll eventually discover the magical world. Wouldn't they want to explore it then? A conflict between Muggles and wizards would be inevitable! And when that day comes, the wizarding world would be utterly unprepared."
Pansy frowned. "So you're saying Professor Grindelwald's perspective was correct?"
Erwin shook his head. "No. Grindelwald advocated controlling Muggles through sheer power, essentially enslaving them. He saw the future but failed to consider why Muggles possess such formidable capabilities. It's due to their creativity and mastery of practical knowledge. There's a principle: where there is oppression, there is resistance. Whether wizards or Muggles, we are all human. Wizards might oppress them for fifty years, but human resilience is boundless. Eventually, they will rebel, and when that day comes, how will the wizarding world respond? Besides, our numbers are too few. Therefore, Grindelwald's path is also flawed."
His voice carried clearly, and the entire classroom heard him. Every young witch and wizard looked thoughtful.
Erwin continued, "Therefore, remember this: whether wizards or Muggles, their greatest power has never been the tools they wield, but their creativity. Human ingenuity is boundless. As long as that ingenuity remains, they will continue to create. Put away your arrogance. Never underestimate anyone, even if they don't possess magical abilities. You never know when they might hold the power to end you."
The young Slytherins and Ravenclaws nodded solemnly.
At that moment, applause rang out.
Grindelwald entered through a side door to the classroom. "Erwin, you're certainly frank. You give me no room for face-saving."
Erwin laughed. "You don't need face-saving, Your Excellency. Even if your path was mistaken, you remain a pioneer."
Grindelwald chuckled. "You... sometimes I wonder if you know how to be diplomatic. But you're right. My path was wrong, and I've never lacked the courage to admit my mistakes. As you said, I overlooked too much. Now, I'm very curious to see what your path looks like—if it succeeds."
"I look forward to discovering that myself," Erwin replied.
Grindelwald nodded. Just then, the school bell rang.
"Alright, settle down for class," Grindelwald said, walking to the podium. He set down the book he was carrying. "I've reviewed your textbooks, and I find them rather inadequate. They contain detailed records of defensive spells and methods for dealing with dark creatures. But in my opinion, they are largely ineffective in real situations."
The young wizards exchanged bewildered glances. Erwin's lips curled into a knowing smile. Just as he'd suspected, Grindelwald wasn't the type to simply follow a curriculum. For a legendary wizard, the rigid theories in textbooks were far too restrictive. Once you enter the real magical world, many things change.
For example, the Defense textbook teaches how to deal with werewolves—using silver objects or incapacitating spells. But it doesn't teach you how to drive a silver blade into the chest of a charging werewolf. It doesn't tell you what to do if you lack the strength to incapacitate one. These are things textbooks won't teach you.
Grindelwald continued, "In fact, when I was a student, I thought Defense Against the Dark Arts was the most pointless course. The reason is simple: if you are powerful enough, you don't need to defend. You can defeat your opponent before they harm you. If you are not strong enough, you don't need to defend either, because no matter what you try, the outcome is already decided."
The young wizards felt the logic was somewhat circular, yet Grindelwald's words made undeniable sense.
"There is a principle that I find very true: the best defense is a good offense," Grindelwald declared. "Starting today, I will not teach you defense. I will teach you how to use offensive magic to counter offensive magic."
The young wizards' eyes lit up. They were at an age where such ideas appealed strongly. Grindelwald was satisfied with their reactions. He was truly adept at reading people, whether adult or child.
Grindelwald looked at Erwin. Erwin understood instantly. He would be the demonstration partner again.
Sure enough, Grindelwald said, "Erwin, come up here and demonstrate for everyone."
Erwin nodded and stood up.
Grindelwald glanced around the classroom. "This space is a bit cramped. How about this: for your first Defense Against the Dark Arts class, I'll take you outdoors."
The young wizards' eyes brightened with excitement. They absolutely loved this idea. Grindelwald led them directly to the open grounds outside the castle. He nodded in satisfaction at the space.
"This will do nicely. Erwin, let's give it a try. I'm very curious to see how strong you've become."
Erwin smiled, standing face to face with Grindelwald.
"Well then, Your Excellency," Erwin said, raising his wand. "Do be careful."