A Reason That Cannot Be Refused

The Sword of Gryffindor, one of Hogwarts's most legendary magical artifacts, had been forged by goblins. Not only was it incomparably sharp, it also possessed a highly unusual magical property: it could absorb and enhance the abilities of things that strengthened it.

For example, after killing the Basilisk with the Sword of Gryffindor, the blade would permanently carry Basilisk venom. Placing the sword in Fiendfyre could also make every swing carry Fiendfyre's scorching flames—of course, provided the sword's material could withstand Fiendfyre without being destroyed.

Clearly, none of the previous headmasters had dared to try it. After all, there were very few things in the wizarding world capable of resisting Fiendfyre. What if the sword melted?

Of the relics left behind by the Four Founders, Hogwarts had only this one remaining. Its symbolic significance far outweighed its actual power.

Besides, they were all wizards. A burning sword was not necessarily more handy than a wand.

However, as a weapon deliberately left behind by Godric Gryffindor, the sword could only be drawn from the Sorting Hat by a true heir of Gryffindor who displayed extraordinary courage.

Even though it sat on the rack now, seemingly within reach, when Silvan truly extended his hand, he grasped nothing but air.

The sword was like a lifelike shadow. It could be seen, but not touched.

Dumbledore remained calm. Having known all this long ago, he showed not the slightest surprise.

"I don't know how I'm supposed to display extraordinary courage right now," Silvan said. "But I need to use you to carve runes into Salazar Slytherin's Locket."

Silvan paused, deliberately raising his voice when he spoke Salazar Slytherin's name.

"I've tried every method I could think of, and all of them failed. But I think you definitely can do it, can't you?"

A gust