This arrangement was not a secret. Even Hogwarts engaged in such maneuvering. However, Hogwarts possessed a vast pool of exceptional students. Consequently, the Hogwarts method involved first eliminating those who weren't qualified, allowing the Goblet of Fire to select randomly among the strongest. This was why, historically, the Triwizard Tournament coincidentally chose only the top students from each school. Did the Goblet of Fire truly possess the ability to discern a student's strength perfectly? It was questionable. Ultimately, it came down to manipulation behind the scenes. However, Erwin now intended to bring this manipulation into the open.
Erwin wasn't surprised by the silence that had fallen over the office. He continued, "The original purpose of the Tournament was to select true champions—true warriors. At least, that was the case in the past. This time, with the addition of the Eastern delegation, the four-school Tournament is unprecedented. The entire magical world is watching."
"So, what truly defines a warrior? Is it overwhelming strength? Unparalleled wisdom? Or perhaps extraordinary popularity?" Erwin's gaze swept across the room. The others looked at him, uncertain of his direction, yet pondering his questions seriously.
"I know you've all prepared a comprehensive plan for the Tournament, testing courage, wisdom, and strength," Erwin said. "But does not being chosen by the Goblet of Fire—or rather, not being predetermined—truly mean a lack of wisdom, strength, or courage? Take Hogwarts as an example. Gryffindor represents courage. Each of them possesses courage, though its expression varies. Does that mean those unchosen lack courage?"
"Ravenclaw, representing wisdom at Hogwarts—do they lack wisdom? The answer is certainly no. So, if they weren't chosen, how would their wisdom be demonstrated?"
"Slytherin—I am Head Prefect of Slytherin—and I can say with absolute certainty that Slytherin's overall strength is currently superior in many areas of magic. They've mastered numerous spells and possess considerable practical experience. Would it not be unfair to them if they weren't chosen by the Goblet?"
"Finally, Hufflepuff. People say Hufflepuff is the most ordinary house, but in my opinion, that is precisely what makes them formidable. Each of them is well-rounded. Cedric Demos, for instance—I've met him, and I can assure you, he's a very capable wizard. One day, given time, he will be second to none. And he should be on Hogwarts' shortlist this time. What if something unexpected happens and he isn't chosen?"
Professor McGonagall spoke up. "Erwin, what exactly are you proposing?"
"Professor McGonagall, my point is simple," Erwin said. "The wizarding world has never been a world for one person or a select few. The future of magic belongs to everyone. Perhaps each individual has their own strengths and weaknesses, but together they form a whole. Hogwarts is like that, the Eastern schools are like that, and Durmstrang and Beauxbatons are like that. In that case, why not give everyone a chance? Must only one person represent their school? Since everyone forms a team, why can't we compete as a team?"
"Therefore, I propose that this Triwizard Tournament adopt a team-based format. The age limit remains unchanged, but we change the selection rules for the Goblet of Fire. In addition to the pre-selected champions, the Goblet will randomly select teammates for each champion. This will give others a chance to showcase their abilities, and it will also prevent any one school from placing all its hopes on a single person. That puts too much pressure on the participant. These are my conditions. If you agree, I can guarantee that my name will not appear in the Goblet for this Tournament."
Erwin fell silent, observing the reactions of those present. A heavy quiet settled over the office. Maxime, Karkaroff, the Eastern elders, and even Dumbledore were all pondering Erwin's words carefully. Undeniably, Erwin's argument made considerable sense. They had indeed overlooked many things. They'd only thought that the strongest students should participate in the Tournament, but they'd forgotten that the initial purpose was to select true warriors. Was the strongest student necessarily the only warrior? It didn't seem so. Even a student with flaws would always have their strengths.
Grindelwald was the first to raise his hand and applaud. "Erwin, well said! I agree with your proposal. I think the team competition format is acceptable."
Erwin looked at Grindelwald and bowed slightly. "Thank you, Your Excellency."
Grindelwald waved a dismissive hand. "My agreement to your proposal has nothing to do with our personal relationship. I simply believe your proposal is the correct one."
Erwin smiled. After Grindelwald spoke first, Dumbledore said, "In that case, let us vote. There are eleven people in the office now. Erwin, as the proposer, will not participate in the vote. So, everyone, please express your opinions. Raise your hand if you agree with Erwin's proposal."
After speaking, Dumbledore raised his hand first. Grindelwald had agreed, so naturally, he followed suit. Then, Snape also raised his hand without hesitation. Professor McGonagall, Professor Sprout, and Professor Flitwick were staunch supporters of Erwin. Naturally, they had no objections. Afterward, Maxime and the Eastern elders also raised their hands. Barty Crouch immediately raised his hand as well. In the end, only Karkaroff remained without his hand raised.
Erwin glanced at Karkaroff. The Durmstrang Headmaster felt a chill run down his spine. He quickly raised his hand. Damn it, this was a vote conducted in front of Erwin! Who knew if Erwin would hold a grudge later? Besides, even if it was changed to a team competition, it didn't seem to affect Durmstrang much. Krum was still their strongest.
Erwin gave Karkaroff a satisfied look. Karkaroff breathed a sigh of relief. For some reason, he felt as though he'd narrowly escaped disaster. But then he wondered if it was just his imagination. Erwin probably wouldn't hold a grudge later, right? Hopefully not.