Dumbledore was the President of the International Confederation of Wizards and the Chief Warlock of the Wizengamot. Whether in identity or status, he ranked above Fudge, the Minister for the British Ministry of Magic. He simply disliked wielding his power; it did not mean he lacked it.
"Cornelius, the second measure you must take is to send someone to deliver a message to the giants immediately."
"Send a message to the giants?" Fudge cried. "What kind of madness is this?"
"Extend the hand of friendship while it is not yet too late." Dumbledore's expression was grave. "Otherwise, Voldemort will win them over. He has done this before. Of all wizards, only he can offer them the greatest benefits and freedom."
Fudge shook his head and leaned back. "Y-you must be joking! If the Wizarding World learns that I have dealings with giants—people hate giants with a passion, Dumbledore. Do you want my career ruined?"
"Cornelius, you are far too obsessed with your office." Dumbledore's voice gradually rose. "It has cost you the judgment you ought to possess. If you heed my advice and take certain measures, then the Ministry of Magic and the entire Wizarding World will remember you forever. They will see you as the bravest and greatest Minister for Magic in history!"
His voice suddenly dropped. "If you do not act, history will remember just as clearly that it was your inaction that gave Voldemort a second chance to destroy the world we worked so hard to rebuild."
"Absurd..." Fudge muttered, his whole back pressed against the chair. "Madness... This is madness..."
After a brief silence, Dumbledore's bright azure eyes dimmed for an instant. "If you insist on remaining so stubborn and going your own way, Cornelius, then we must part ways."
His tone was especially calm. "You