It was a straight passage, and after only a few dozen steps, they reached its end. Five bookcases stood there: one directly opposite the exit, and two on each side. The bookcases on either side were not placed flush together, however, leaving a subtle gap between them.
That gap looked very much like another passage.
"Yes, the Council's functional areas are connected to one another, but they are generally hidden."
Miss Galina gave a brief explanation, then pointed at the bookcases.
"The records are all here."
They were five crooked gray stone bookcases, looking even older than those in Sister Devlin's Mountain Top Sacrificial Ground. Each had five shelves, every one packed with books. But no matter how densely they were filled, there could only be a few hundred books here. Compared to the ancient history of the Witch Council, Shade even doubted whether these books could contain the names of every past Council member.
"What you see is only the surface. There is actually an enormous amount of information here. Reach out your hand and imagine the information you want; what you take will surely be what you need."
Miss Sylvia noticed Shade's confusion and explained softly.
"Of course, only Council members are qualified to retrieve records. Even someone like Sister Devlin, who is permitted to attend, does not have that qualification."
Miss Galina added.
At the same time, "she" whispered in Shade's ear:
Perhaps you could give it a try.
"Can I retrieve books like an official member?"
You even have Voting Right now. Outlander, as you come into contact with more Witch Echoes, you will gain more authority here.
I'll pass. Miss Galina can retrieve them for me.
Thinking this, Shade asked the witch beside him:
"I think I understand. The outward appearance of these bookcases is