New Moon (My Little Pony)

38 Second Conference (2/2)

"So, is there a reason you called for this meeting?" Bud asked, trying to remain formal. However, she was taken aback by this sudden conference she imagined would never happen again. And yet here she was, sat before Hawk Inkwell in her classroom.

Their previous talk did not end on a good note. Bud took issue with how Hawk set Raven to undergo numerous lectures and practices throughout her day. It seemed the only time Raven had a chance to breathe was when she was at school and Bud's side.

Ever since then, their conversations have only involved brief greetings. Bud rarely felt vindictive toward others, but Hawk had a way of grinding her gears. He was far too controlling for her liking and unnaturally obsessed with his death.

If Bud had a way to knock this strange funk out of him, she would have done so. That and the idea felt therapeutic to her.

I shouldn't have petty thoughts like that, Bud chided herself.

Hawk adjusted the collar on his suit. He appeared calm and calculating. It was as if he was sitting for a job interview, formulating in his mind for the ideal approach.

"I have a few questions regarding my daughter," Hawk began with a professional tone.

Bud always took issue with this tone. Perhaps she shouldn't hold it against due to his profession, but Bud always liked her talk with parents to be sympathetic and genuine. This need to be wary of his intention left her sharp and edgy. It can get stressful when she has to keep it on for a long period.

It's kind of been that way at home since she learned about Lazuli's feelings. Bud guessed she should take solace she gets a small break from awkwardness around her. Although, she much preferred to have Nebula and Artemis in her hooves.

"Okay then," Bud replied, raising a brow. "What would you like to know?"

"My daughter has visited your home countless times over the course of this year. Knowing your compassion and the diverse background of those around you, I imagine she has garnered influence. So, tell me, has she adopted a new interest?"

Bud blinked and looked down at her desk. Not to think of an answer for Hawk, but to understand why he asked the question in the first place. Obviously, he held concern about Raven. But was it for her or himself? She faced Hawk again and asked, "And why, might I ask, would like to know this?"

"Do I, her father, need permission to know about her habits?" Hawk countered. "I have a right to know what environment you have placed my daughter in."

"Don't you mean you placed her in? You are the one who permitted her to be at my side."

"Then you should have no qualms about disclosing your activity with her, yes?"

"And perhaps you should have no qualms about sharing the reason for your concern."

"I didn't come here for an argument," Hawk sighed. "I only want to know if my daughter has grown attached to any activity within your group."

"...My foals have a knack for board games," Bud said. "I've found Raven playing dozens of them with Nebula and Artemis. She has even recommended new games to me for them to try."

"Board games." Hawk rubbed his beard. "Rather mundane, but that could be a start." He raised to his hooves and looked to his gold watch on his forehoof. "Thank you for your contribution, Ms. Bud. If you excuse me, I must return home."

Before he exited the door, Bud spoke, "Raven is passionate about board games because the foals love them. I don't think somepony orderly as yourself will have the same effect."

Hawk stopped inches before the door. He turned back to Bud with a cold look. "I don't believe I asked for your insight, Ms. Bud. We are done with this."

"Raven has other interests besides board games. Not just from me and those around me, but even before I first met her. If board games come as a surprise to you, then I can't help but think you are unaware of the others."

"Are you suggesting that you know more about my daughter than I do?" Hawk walked back before the table and glared at Bud. "Raven has been under my care since she was born to the world. I have been doing everything within my power to ensure that she gets the best life that she deserves. I refuse to stand here and let you bicker about knowing her better than I."

"How can you when you don't understand what she likes?" Bud questioned. "Do you even know the things she wants in life? And I don't mean being an advisor to Princess Celestia. I mean the other things outside of that."

"Other things..." Hawk stood still, ruminating in his thoughts for an answer. Hawk had arranged numerous economic, business, and etiquette sessions for Raven to become the best advisor across the lands. Was there anything outside of that he found in Raven? "...I don't know."

"Does that trouble you?" Bud asked. "From what you've told me, all you wish is for her to be successful in life. But there's so much more life than just her career. What of her friends, passions, and love? Don't you think those should matter?"

"Of course, it does. And she is guaranteed all of them from the path I have set her on."

"Why does it have to be your path? Can't you let her pick one for herself?"

"What is greater than being the advisor to Equestria? She will garner respect and honor across Equestria for her service. Many will look up to her and she will have the favor of our Princess. This is what's best for her."

"It's that very mindset is why she doesn't tell you anything," Bud argued. "The longer you continue this, the less you will know about your daughter."

"What is so wrong about building a great future for her? Everything I do, I do to make her happy. I know she understands that."

Hawk was certain Wind Rider felt the same way. And yet, he held a terrible relationship with his daughter.

"It doesn't have to be this way," Bud stated. "She still wants to open up to you about her feelings. You just have to give her that chance. I can help with that. But first, you need to be honest with me."

Hawk averted his gaze from Bud. He hated being picked apart by this mare. There was nothing particularly special about her outside of the foals she birthed. Even so, it appeared his daughter has gone to her to confide to when it should have been Hawk's role.

"I'm...troubled by a thought," Hawk started. "Of a future where Raven comes to detest me."

"Why would you think that? I don't think Raven could ever feel that way about you."

"I saw that talk between Wind Rider and Lazuli. I am aware of their tension with each other. I can't help but feel familiar with Wind and that troubles me."

"That if you continue to push Raven that she may grow to resent you," Bud concluded.

Hawk nodded.

"Well, your honesty was frankly refreshing. Lucky for you, I know the perfect way to resolve your issue."

"I find your confidence a tad annoying, if I am, to be honest," Hawk confided. "But seeing that you claim to be an expert about my daughter, please elaborate."

"Absolutely," Bud said without a prick in her tone. "This will be more about replanting the foundation, but it won't work unless without your compliance."

"It seems to me I don't have much of a choice in this matter."

"Great." Bud clapped her hooves. "I've also prepared a whole lecture on how you can adjust your interaction with Raven as well. Some trinkets here and there that I believe can be helpful."

"You what?" Hawk gaped at the mare as she began to scribble onto the chalkboard behind her.

"Oh yes," Bud said. "This has been months in the making. So, sit down and grab a pen. This might take a while."

"Is this really necessary? Can't you just explain this plan of yours?"

"All in good time. But I truly think you need this."

"Why do I get the impression you have it backward?"