Bel did her best not to appear unnerved as the figure watched her. Seated on a high chair that revealed most of his upper frame, he eyed her disapprovingly. Bel didn't recognize the vampire, but from his demeanor, she knew he was important.
"Giselle," he said, not tearing his gaze away from Bel. "What's the meaning of this intrusion?"
Bel felt a wave of anger. It was pretty clear why they were here; there was no need to ask. Her anger dissipated the nervousness she felt at his stare, and her gaze held. Bel hasn't received any form of hostility from vampires since she arrived, so this attitude caught her off guard.
"Elder Vance," Giselle said, bowing her head.
Elder? Bel thought. She knew the Elders were important pillars of Darkcrypt; she never would have expected one to be a librarian.
"This is Princess Beryl, Davien's wife," Giselle continued, introducing her. Bel offered a stiff smile, preparing to say a few polite words.