"A little ssspy?"
As Phydeana slithered further into the light, Lazula considered. She knew this one, of course. Masiraphydeana, it was. Harmless, and curious enough to eat up every bit of instruction she could recall ever having given her.
The inclinations of Lazula's students were significant to her, as she considered training of their minds a large part of her vocation. It often meant, though, that the troublesome students consumed most of her attention and the studious ones went unnoticed. Quiet, attentive. As they should be. So it was no surprise that Lazula had not recognized her instantly. She had been one of the better ones.
Lazula tilted her head from side to side. It wasn't anger that narrowed her eyes. She often found that, despite a person's age or standing, she wanted to crawl inside their minds. Wanted to know what made them tick, whether they infuriated her or fascinated her. And this was no exception.
"No, Masiraphydeana." She took a step closer. "I don't want you out of my way. I want you to explain yourself."
Much to her dismay, Phydeana continued to coil away, creeping tighter around something she seemed to be protecting. Lazula sighed, rolled her eyes, and snatched the cup from the girl's tail.
"I've already seen what you've done." A slender hand held the cup before her, and a careful eye examined it for damage. Satisfied, she eyed Phydeana once more. Punishment could come later. For now, she didn't want to scare her away. "Now. Answer me. Why are you here, what are you looking for, and why are you hiding?"