The Crimson Manor, a secret optional area in Phantom Blade Zero, becomes accessible later in the game. To unseal its entrance, players must acquire the Puppet's Tongue item, which is rewarded upon completing The Herald's Illusion quest. This quest involves locating and interacting with three portals that lead to a strange realm featuring a hanging puppet.
Each portal corresponds to opening one of the puppet's eyes. Once all three eyes are activated, the puppet will bestow its tongue, allowing entry into the Crimson Manor. Players will find the first portal near the Puppet Testing Grounds bell in the Village of Lu, the game's third region. This location is situated at the end of the area, shortly after descending a well, and is difficult to miss.
The second portal is located at the conclusion of the Mandate Encampment area, which becomes accessible after defeating the region's boss. To reach this area, a key obtained from Pangzhen is required to open a gate near the entrance to the Village of Lu.
Finally, the third portal lies at the end of the Mountain of Imprisonment area, also found after defeating its respective region boss. Accessing this area necessitates repairing the Illusory Pipa and subsequently unlocking a barrier situated in the northeastern section of Meigu Lake.
Upon passing through the third portal and speaking with the hanging puppet, players will receive the Puppet's Tongue. This item not only grants access to the Crimson Manor but also provides the puppet's Yin eye, which is integral to another quest. With the Crimson Manor unlocked, players can then proceed to challenge the fourth acolyte as part of the Secrets at the Heart of the Lake quest.