Chapter 82: The Dueling Master
A good professor needs to know what their students are thinking and how to keep them engaged. Professor McGonagall was particularly skilled at this; just a mention of the final exam, and the students instantly forgot their holiday mindset, snapping back to focus on their studies.
As her colleague, Professor Flitwick was equally perceptive. "Today, we will learn the Softening Charm," he announced from atop a stack of books, his voice high and cheerful. "As the name suggests, this charm can instantly soften hard objects. It's very practical and widely used by adult wizards. For example, in Quidditch—which I know many of you love—the Softening Charm often cushions players who fall off their broomsticks."
The students perked up at the mention of Quidditch.
"You can also use it in duels," Professor Flitwick continued. "Softening the ground can throw your opponent off balance, giving you an opening to strike." With a twinkle in his eye, he added, "Back when I competed in dueling tournaments, I used this very charm to make my opponent surrender. And that year, I won the championship."
The room buzzed with excitement; Quidditch and daring duels had captivated the students.
"Professor, you won the Dueling Competition?" asked Katie Bell from Gryffindor, raising her hand. She looked doubtful—after all, Professor Flitwick was barely as tall as she was.
"Oh, that was long ago," Professor Flitwick chuckled, "but yes, I won, and not just once. Anyone interested can read more in Dueling Champions of the Twentieth Century. It's in our library."
"Wow..." murmured the students. They had never imagined that their gentle, unassuming Charms professor was such a powerful duelist.
"Professor, please teach us!" one Gryffindor exclaimed eagerly.