"Dumbledore, the situation is extremely critical, and... I need your cooperation."
Ministry of Magic.
Minister's office.
Fudge sat behind his desk, his face pale, both hands pressed hard against his forehead, his knuckles turning white from the pressure.
His breathing was rapid and ragged, as if he were desperately trying to control a breakdown that could happen at any moment.
Opposite him, Dumbledore sat serenely, his figure dimly visible through a translucent curtain.
His posture was as composed as ever, his hands folded in his lap, his blue eyes quietly watching Fudge through the diffused light.
"Fudge, you need to tell me some information," Dumbledore's tone was calm and gentle, as if he were soothing a frightened child. "Only then will I know how to help you."
"Or perhaps you could remove this curtain first so we can talk face-to-face. That might be better."
Fudge shook his head violently, like a dying person struggling against the inevitable, as if any disturbance would trigger a severe reaction.
"Dumbledore, do you think I'm a fool?! Open the curtain and let you examine the thoughts in my head? Don't even think about it!"
Chapter 226