Qu Zan followed the path deeper into Corpse Camel Temple.
This was the true inner sanctum's secret repository, open only to Geshes who had mastered God-and-Demon Power.
Ordinary Geshes and virtuous Lamas did not even know this place existed.
The entire hall was embedded deep within the mountain. Its entrance was built of rammed stone and timber, with an outer secret door clad in copper and inlaid with iron. Dharma protectors and seed syllables were chiseled into its panels.
An old man in red robes guarded the entrance, concealed in the shadows. His eyes lit up when he saw the long five-treasure necklace hanging around Qu Zan's neck.
When Qu Zan handed him the silver talisman plaque, surprise flashed across the old man's face.
"A Geshe who has passed the certification assessment?" The old man narrowed his eyes like an aged tiger. "So very young."
Qu Zan nodded politely. "Yes, I just passed."
The old man scrutinized Qu Zan for a while, then stepped into the shadows.
"Go in. With your current merit privileges, you may only enter the first, second, and third floors of the Esoteric Sutra Hall to consult the books and scriptures. You may not take any books away. Also, do not cultivate inside the Esoteric Sutra Hall. This is for your own good..."
Qu Zan pressed his palms together, bowed, and entered the Esoteric Sutra Hall.
As soon as he entered, he sensed how different this place was. Only daylight filtered through the narrow windows, offering little illumination. The scents of paper, sandalwood incense, and old ink drifted through the air.
Cold slowly seeped from the stone walls, sending a chill down his spine.
It was pitch-black here, eerie and frightening, lit only by butter lamps trailing wisps of blue smoke.
Qu Zan saw dark red