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Catacombs of the Talion
Items: 37
Kills: 33
Hidden under the Barkhang Monastery is the Catacombs of the Talion. Not even the monks dare venture into the catacombs, much less tourists. Enter at your own risk.
Sights to See
Beneath the Barkhang Monastery, is the entrance to an elaborate set of catacombs. Locked away within the catacombs are Tibetan artifacts and some interesting creatures, not to be found anywhere else in the world.

Bear in mind that the average tourist is not allowed into the sacred catacombs. Not merely because of the national treasures within, but because the builders have laid many traps to discourage robbers.

Regardless of the dangers, you will enjoy some interesting architecture within. Rather than the Tibetan designs you saw in the monastery above, curiously enough, instead you will find that everything is traditional imperial Chinese style of architecture.

Do be careful, as we cannot be held liable for your wellbeing, as we are warning you of the dangers a priori.
Local Fauna
Snow leopards have made a home in the catacombs, so be aware that entire families of them are within. Also, you will encounter a new foe, or rather a very old foe1, the yeti. These abominable snowmen are hard to take down and it becomes even harder if there are more than than one. Bring lots of ammunition with you if you plan on taking these brutes on. One other interesting little creature can be found in the catacombs. A rare large Tibetan catfish. Don't assume that these are like those wimpy farm-raised catfish. In order to survive in such bitter climate, these fish are quite aggressive.
Thieves
As with the monastery, the catacombs has a problem with thieves. Most are discouraged by the traps and beasts within, but with you blazing a trail for them, you can count on the fact that a few enterprising hooligans will follow you inside.
Souvenirs
There are two items that you will need to pick up. They are two Tibetan masks. Don't try to bring them home for Halloween, because although they can be work as masks, their purpose is very different.
Hidden Treasures
All the secrets are well hidden, but the path to the first two can be quite obvious. Obtaining the second will require either some fancy footwork or plain dumb luck. The third secret can be easily missed as you rush past it.
Hazards
Only two things to look out for: traps and enemies. The traps are quite effective and deadly, and the enemies are tough and mean. Keep those Uzi's ready because we predict you'll be using them a lot here.

Footnotes:
  1. What we mean is that according to "background" information from the Tomb Raider web site Lara Croft supposedly bagged a yeti just before taking on the quest for the Scion from Jaqueline Natla. So, although you've never seen a yeti before this point, Lara Croft is all too familiar with them.