Assassin's Creed Wiki - User contributions [en-gb]

Pantheon

2011-01-03T03:23:18Z

108.27.80.41:

{{WP-REAL|Pantheon, Rome}}
[[File:Pantheon..jpg|thumb|The Pantheon in ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]''.]]

The '''Pantheon''' was one of [[Rome]]'s oldest (the meaning of "Pantheon" is ''Temple of all the gods''), and most famous Roman Catholic Church.
===History===
It was built in 31 BC by Marcus Agrippa after the Battle of Actium. Later, it was restored to it's current form by the Emperor Hadrian, however, retaining Agrippa's original inscription and dedication (the inscription says ''M·AGRIPPA·L·F·COS·TERTIVM·FECIT'' and the translation to English says: "Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, in his third consulate,made this". It was used to commemorate the Roman gods and goddesses originally, but was converted into a church by Pope Boniface IV in 609. Both the name and style of the building have inspired similar churches in Europe, most notably a second Pantheon in Paris,France.

===''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood''===
In 1503, [[Rodrigo Borgia|Pope Alexander VI]] and his son, [[Cesare Borgia]], paraded through the city, escorted by [[Papal Guard]]s when they were ambushed by [[Ezio Auditore da Firenze|Ezio]] and his [[Assassin apprentices|apprenticed]] [[Assassins]] outside The Church. The Church is also a major landmark of Rome.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood E3 trailer">''[http://www.e3expo.com Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood E3 trailer]''</ref>

==Gallery==
<gallery captionalign="left">
180px-Pantheon.jpg|Artwork depicting the Pantheon.
ACB_SP_S_01_Rome_PantheonAndHorses.jpg|Riding on a [[Horses|horse]] towards the Pantheon.
assassins-creed-brotherhood-20100614060035497.jpg|The Pantheon in the ''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood'' Multiplayer.
</gallery>

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Rome]]
[[Category:Landmarks]]
[[Category:Churches]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Locations]]

Hidden Blade

2011-01-03T03:17:33Z

108.27.80.41: /* Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood */

{{Era|AC|AC2|Assassins}}
{{Revamp}}
[[File:Hiddenblade.jpg|thumb|300px|Altaïr stabbing a crusader with the Hidden Blade.]]
{{quote|The hidden blade has been a constant companion of ours over the years. Some would say it defines us - and they would not be entirely wrong. Many of our successes would not have been possible without it.|[[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad|Altaïr]]'s [[Codex]], Page 13|Assassin's Creed II}}

The iconic weapon of the [[Assassin's Creed series|''Assassin's Creed'' series]], the '''Hidden Blade''' is used both for stealth assassinations and for regular combat.

==''Assassin's Creed''==
Although [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]] already has this weapon at the start of the game, he loses it when he is demoted to [[Novice]]. At his first promotion to [[Rank]] 2, however, he earns it back (along with his [[sword]]) so that he may perform his first assassination on [[Tamir]], the black marketeer, in [[Damascus]].

===Basic Usage===
{{main|Assassination Techniques}}
[[Video:12 Ways to Wield the Hidden Blade|thumb|300px|right|A video guide for the hidden blade in ''Assassin's Creed''.]]
This weapon is mostly used for stealthy, low profile assassinations upon [[guards]]. An unaware soldier may be assassinated without drawing too much attention, with stealth assassinations being possible from both behind and in front of the target. Altaïr rams the blade into the victim's abdomen (front) or through his spine (back). When stealth is not a priority, Altaïr may perform a high profile assassination. This involves sprinting towards the target, jumping and thrusting the blade into the victims throat, or major arteries in the neck. Alternatively, if approaching from behind, Altaïr may push the target onto his knees and stab him in the neck.

The hidden blade is the only weapon that Altaïr may wield while sprinting. When Altaïr is close enough to the victim during a foot pursuit, he may carry out an assassination. Altaïr will perform a running leap, landing on his victim from behind and burying the blade in the neck. This feature makes it an ideal choice for running down [[assassination targets]] who flee such as [[Talal]], the slave trader, in [[Jerusalem]].

Both low and high profile assassinations are capable of failure. A guard wary of your actions may catch your arm when you attempt the kill and throw you back. However, attacks from behind and attacks made upon guards who are prone on the ground will never fail, no matter the circumstances.

===Air Assassination===
[[File:Altaïr_using_the_hidden_blade.jpg|thumb|left|280px|Altaïr performing an air assassination.]]
In a [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blXy3W2O2PE 2007 demo] of the [[William of Montferrat|William V of Montferrat]] mission, [[Jade Raymond]] introduced a move called "''air to assassinate''" that combines some of Altaïr's acrobatic skills with his hidden blade. Due to this, all forms of Air to Assassinate draw attention of nearby guards, even when performed in low profile.

From higher ground above a target, such as a nearby roof or beam, Altaïr leaps directly onto his victim and stabs him in the throat. Although the move was not covered in the manual or in-game tutorials, air to assassinate does exist, and the controls were documented by "Stabguy" on [http://www.thehiddenblade.com/air-assassinate-guide The Hidden Blade] website. Note that in ''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'', ''Air to Assassinate'' was renamed ''Air Assassination'' and included as a required tutorial with simplified controls.

{{-}}
===Combat===
The hidden blade can also be used while in combat. An enemy who has been grabbed and thrown (or counter thrown with a grab break) can easily be killed while he lies on the ground. Using the blade in combat against large groups is challenging, as Altaïr is unable to block ''any'' attack.

Additionally, the time frame in which Altaïr can counter-attack is extremely small, especially in comparison to that of the sword and the short blade. Successfully countering enables one of several different – and always lethal – counter-attacks, in which Altaïr stabs his opponent in the chest, head, abdomen, base of the skull, or spine.

It is also possible to assassinate the enemy in combat, while he is caught in a moment of inattention, has his back turned, is grappling with a vigilante, or if he is taunting Altaïr. Attempting an assassination at any other time will fail, as the enemy will always be able to block the attack.

===Mechanism===
[[File:Assassinscreedbladema5.png|thumb|The hidden blade ring mechanism.]]
The hidden blade is commonly worn on the left hand. The blade is integrated into the vambrace, and when not in use, sits retracted inside the slide mechanism. Though not fully or officially understood as to ''how'' the blade functions, there are a number of theories:

#When the Assassin flicks his wrist, the blade is ejected with the combined force of the arm and gravity. The user is "unhinging" or "releasing" the blade, which is normally kept locked in place. If the Assassin keeps pulling with his arm on the mechanism, the blade stays out and can be used in open combats.
#A ring mechanism is attached to the Assassin's finger, and opening the hand ejects the blade. This, however, raises the question as to why the blade does not activate every time he opens his hand, and how he can hold the blade in his fist without it retracting.
#A combination of the former two theories is used, wherein the blade won't eject or retract without the use of both systems. This would explain why Assassins flick their wrist and open their hand to eject the blade, why they can close their fist without the blade retracting, and why there is no fear of an unexpected stabbing.
#The blade functions on a spring-retraction system, where the blade is never truly locked when it is released, and would therefore return if not held in place.
#The mechanism functions in the same system as the modern, full-automatic switchblade knives. There are two springs of equal strength present, and the inertia from the pull/push of one spring is enough to overcome the resistance of the other spring, allowing the blade to lock into place.

===Roles on the Field===
====Informant missions====
The hidden blade is also used for some of the [[investigation]]s given to you by [[informants]], wherein you are asked to stealthily assassinate a number of targets. If any guard even once confronts you, the mission is failed. If you attack the targets or the guards with [[fists]], or any high profile weapon, you will fail the mission. Because of this, you may '''only''' use [[throwing knives]] and/or the hidden blade to assassinate your targets.

====Interrogation missions====
During [[Interrogation]] missions, after successfully interrogating the target, Altaïr is forced to kill them, so they cannot reveal his plans to the enemy. He will bury the blade in their stomach to kill them, then gently lower their body onto the ground so as not to draw further attention to himself.

====Save Citizen missions====
In the optional [[Save Citizen]] missions involving rescuing citizens from soldiers threatening to kill them, this weapon will come in handy. Successfully and stealthily used, you may take out three of the soldiers before they notice you, draw their weapons, and engage you in a swordfight. Also, the Save Citizen missions are commonly located in alleyways or dark corners, so it is possible to begin the mission by starting from an elevated position and performing an air-to-assassinate.

====Assassinations====
The hidden blade is used in every storyline assassination you perform. Even if you begin by attacking the enemy with a sword, you will always finish them off with the hidden blade before it cuts to the death cutscene.

==''Assassin's Creed: Lineage''==
[[File:Lineage Hidden Blade.png|thumb|300px|Giovanni's (later Ezio's) hidden blade.]]
In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Lineage]]'', the hidden blade wielded by [[Giovanni Auditore]] had been modified since Altaïr's time, with the blade base raised higher on the arm, to allow one to operate it without the need to sacrifice one's ring finger.

As outlined in the Codex, this revised hidden blade had been designed by Altaïr so that the Assassins, who he intended to go undercover, could not be identified by the lack of a ring finger. Furthermore, the mechanism did not require a wrist "flick" to extend the blade, thus the user could retract the blade without any wrist or hand movement.

Additionally, as pictured, the weapon could be used with a clenched fist (though only [[Giovanni Auditore]] has been depicted as using a clenched fist, while Ezio would use the "traditional" open hand, as did Altaïr).

While there is a rotating wheel atop the rear portion of the mechanism's housing, its function has not been identified, and there are no known schematics or explanations for the mechanism. There are also no shots of it operating during ''Lineage'', and it would often be shown on the actor's arm either sheathed or already extended.

==''Assassin's Creed II''==
{{quote|The blade is designed to ensure the commitment of whomever wields it.|[[Leonardo da Vinci]]|Assassin's Creed II}}
In ''Assassin's Creed II'', [[Ezio Auditore]] possesses two hidden blades, whereas Altaïr has only one. His first blade would be inherited from his father, which, along with the corresponding Codex page, the Assassin's Robes and a common sword, had been hidden in Giovanni's secret room. After he had gained proficiency with the first, Ezio would gain the second blade from [[Leonardo da Vinci]], who constructed it based upon designs detailed in Altaïr's Codex.

Ezio's first hidden blade had become inoperative since Giovanni had faced [[Rodrigo Borgia]]'s men (in ''Assassin's Creed: Lineage''), when a single sword strike against the blade had dislodged it from the bracer and mechanism. Thus, upon suggestion by fellow Assassin [[Paola]], Ezio brought the blade and bracer to his friend Leonardo to have it repaired.

[[File:Demond_blade2.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The blade given to Desmond by Lucy.]]
During a Templar attack on their [[hideout]], [[Desmond Miles]] received a similar (if not identical) model of the hidden blade from [[Lucy Stillman]]. This he used to face [[Warren Vidic]]'s henchmen, though its [[Poison Blade]] and [[Pistol]] upgrades are seemingly absent or inoperable.

{{-}}
===Combat===
[[Video:---The Guide to the Hidden Blade---|thumb|right|300px|A video guide for the hidden blade in ''Assassin's Creed II''.]]
In ''Assassin's Creed II'', the use of the hidden blade in combat has been improved. It can be used similarly to a regular weapon, and is capable of breaking an enemy's defense. It attacks fairly quickly, particularly after the acquisition of the second blade, allowing Ezio to unleash a constant barrage of strikes, which can be used to kill an enemy or suppress their ability to attack. Unlike other weapons, no enemy can counter-attack the hidden blade.

The hidden blade also allows you to attack very quickly, and gives you more freedom in movement rather than the other weapons. For example, Ezio can easily strafe a 180 degree arch in the time it takes for the enemy to attack. This is barely possible (except from very close range) with the sword or dagger. It also allows Ezio to quickly flee from a battle without having to take the time to sheathe his weapon.

While the counter-kill timing window of the hidden blade is very short (a fraction of a second), skillful timing will be rewarded. Except in cases of enemy special attacks (such as that of a [[Brute]] or [[Seeker]]), a successfully timed counter will always kill the guard against which it is performed, even if the guard has high health or is a high-ranking soldier. Brutes in particular are very vulnerable and easy to counter kill with the hidden blades.

===Upgrades===
[[File:Hidden_Blade_Gun_Design_by_arceus2012.jpg|thumb|The hidden blade with a pistol upgrade.]]
Ezio would acquire several Codex pages that, upon decryption, detailed upgrades for the hidden blade, which Leonardo da Vinci was able to implement. The first of these improvements was the addition of a metal plate on top of the vambrace that, unlike in the original ''Assassin's Creed'', would allow one to safely deflect enemy attacks with the blades.

The other upgrades include the [[Poison blade]], which may be used to stab an enemy and leave them to die slowly, and the [[Pistol]], which is able to kill from a distance. Ezio can buy poison for the blade from [[Doctors]] and ammunition for the pistol at [[Blacksmiths]].

Additionally, both blades may be supplemented with various [[Armor|vambraces]], allowing Ezio to block heavier attacks.

===Techniques===
{{main|Assassination Techniques}}
Later on, Ezio is able to learn a variety of assassination techniques, from instructions detailed in the Codex.

====Double Assassination====
[[File:Double_assassination.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Ezio performing a double assassination between two guards.]]
Due to the addition of the second hidden blade, Ezio is able to kill two enemies at once. This technique may be performed on the ground (from behind or between two guards) or from above, as elaborated mentioned below.
{{-}}

[[File:Air_assassination.jpg|thumb|left|250px|An Air Assassination in process.]]
====Air Assassination====
As previously mentioned, this technique is similar to ''Assassin's Creed'''s Air to Assassinate, and allows Ezio to kill an enemy by leaping onto them from above. He may also perform a Double Air Assassination, and kill two enemies from above at once, as long as they are close to each other. However, this technique is easily noticed by guards, and they will immediately attack upon witnessing it.
{{-}}

====Hiding Spot Assassination====
[[File:956856_20090525_790screen003.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Ezio performing a Hiding Spot assassination.]]
Ezio may now assassinate enemies whilst hiding. Particularly useful against Seekers, Ezio may perform an assassination from hay stacks, benches, wells or any other hiding spot.
{{-}}

====Ledge Assassination====
[[File:AC2 Rooftop archer.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Ezio pulling an archer from a rooftop]]
This technique may be performed on any enemy standing above a ledge from which Ezio may hang, and is particularly used against [[archers]]. Depending whether it is done in high or low profile, he will either pull the guard from the roof, and jump up to stab him in the chest.
{{-}}

==''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood''==
[[File:Acbeziohiddenblades.jpg|thumb|250px|Ezio's new hidden blades in ''Brotherhood''.]]

In the beginning of ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]'', Ezio's two hidden blades from ''Assassin's Creed II'' are equipped as he escapes the [[Vatican]]. After he returns to [[Monteriggioni]], however, he removes his hidden blades, and is only able to salvage the first blade and bracer during the [[Siege of Monteriggioni]]. Upon his arrival in Rome, he is equipped with a single hidden blade, though its bracer has been replaced, courtesy of [[Machiavelli]].

Later on, however, Leonardo da Vinci is again able to reconstruct a second hidden blade for him, along with a new upgrade, [[Poison Darts]]. The dart gun is something of a combination of the poison blade and pistol upgrades, allowing one to use the effects of poison from a distance.

Additionally, [[Apprentices|Ezio's Assassin recruits]] are each equipped with a single hidden blade, as the right to use two hidden blades is only reserved for the most trusted of Assassins or those who have earned the rank of the [[Master Assassin]].

Desmond, in turn, wields a single hidden blade without a bracer, with only three straps to attach it to his arm.

[[File:Hidden_Blade.png|frame|left|The second hidden blade, purchasable from Leonardo.]]
===Combat===
In ''Assassins Creed: Brotherhood'', combat with the hidden blade has again improved. The time segment where you can counter with the hidden blade is slightly increased, allowing for more counter kills.

Also, a new ability called execution streaks are introduced, allowing Ezio to perform multiple instant kills after killing a single guard. Each kill must be quickly followed up with another, however, in order to keep the streak going. Being attacked cancels the streak, requiring Ezio to start another one.
{{-}}

==Trivia==
===''Assassin's Creed''===
[[File:Zw-darius.png|thumb|Darius, the first to wield a Hidden Blade.]]
*In the E3 teaser trailer of the game (as well as in certain concept art), Altaïr can be seen pushing a button to operate his hidden blade. In the actual games, however, no such button or other trigger mechanism exists.
*On one of the [[Codex Pages]], it states that the blade has to be connected or linked with the user, thus explaining why Altaïr had his ring finger removed.
**In an ''Assassin's Creed'' [http://www.gametrailers.com/video/developer-diary-assassins-creed/13648 Developer Diary] video, Jade Raymond tells us about Altair's lack of his ring finger, which is due to the initiation ceremony when a novice is promoted to an Assassin. The ring finger of the left hand is cut off, the hidden blade is installed and the new born Assassin is ready to complete the missions bestowed upon him or her.
*Altaïr opens his hand and spreads his fingers whenever the blade is extended. Similarly, he never uses the blade with his hand clenched in a fist, and all stabbing moves or assassinations are performed with an open hand.
*[[Malik Al-Sayf]] was equipped with a hidden blade before he lost his arm, however he did not have an amputated finger. This is most likely an oversight.

===''Assassin's Creed II''===
*[[Patrice Desilets]], the creative director of the game, stated that the addition of a second blade in ''Assassin's Creed II'' also had a lucid reason: it's ''Assassin's Creed II,'' so there are 2 blades.
*The first recorded usage of the Hidden Blade by an Assassin was [[Darius]], when he assassinated [[Xerxes]] of Persia. However, his ring finger is still intact and he wields it on his right hand.
*According to the Codex, since the hidden blade was constructed from a rare metal, dual blades were only given to trusted Assassins.
*The original design of Ezio's second hidden blade in ''Assassin's Creed II'' was displayed as a brown glove, however, in-game, it was replaced with a second bracer. However, in ''Brotherhood'', his second hidden blade includes a glove, until a bracer is purchased.

===''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood''===
*When Ezio faints and awakens in Rome, it is unexplained why or how he lost his father's hidden blade bracer. It simply disappears and he is given a new one.
*When Ezio purchases the second hidden blade by Leonardo, it resembles the design for the gloved hidden blade from the E3 trailer of ''Assassin's Creed II'', until you buy armor for it.
*It is unknown why the ''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood'' cover,artwork,and the E3 Trailer of Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood of Ezio depicts him with a secondary Hidden Blade bracer identical to his primary one, as in-game, no such second bracer exists.

===Others===
*In the ''Assassin's Creed'' novels (''[[Assassin's Creed: Renaissance]]'' and ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood (novel)]]'', unleashing the hidden blade required an activation switch.
*In the film ''Smokin' Aces'', one of the assassins sports a weapon similar to the hidden blade.
*In the movie ''G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra'', Storm Shadow uses a weapon similar to the hidden blade, though it is limited by the fact it must be operated with both hands.
*In the ''Mortal Kombat: Rebirth'' trailer, Dr. Alan Zane, a.k.a. Baraka has similar forearm hidden blades.
*In ''Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny'', the character Dampierre fights with two similar hidden blades, although much bigger in size.

{{ACAC}}
{{AC}}
{{ACB}}
{{ACII}}
{{AC2D}}
{{ACBrotherhood}}
{{ACSeries}}
[[Category:Assassin's Creed Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed II Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles Weapons]]

Hidden Blade

2011-01-03T03:13:57Z

108.27.80.41: /* Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood */

{{Era|AC|AC2|Assassins}}
{{Revamp}}
[[File:Hiddenblade.jpg|thumb|300px|Altaïr stabbing a crusader with the Hidden Blade.]]
{{quote|The hidden blade has been a constant companion of ours over the years. Some would say it defines us - and they would not be entirely wrong. Many of our successes would not have been possible without it.|[[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad|Altaïr]]'s [[Codex]], Page 13|Assassin's Creed II}}

The iconic weapon of the [[Assassin's Creed series|''Assassin's Creed'' series]], the '''Hidden Blade''' is used both for stealth assassinations and for regular combat.

==''Assassin's Creed''==
Although [[Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad]] already has this weapon at the start of the game, he loses it when he is demoted to [[Novice]]. At his first promotion to [[Rank]] 2, however, he earns it back (along with his [[sword]]) so that he may perform his first assassination on [[Tamir]], the black marketeer, in [[Damascus]].

===Basic Usage===
{{main|Assassination Techniques}}
[[Video:12 Ways to Wield the Hidden Blade|thumb|300px|right|A video guide for the hidden blade in ''Assassin's Creed''.]]
This weapon is mostly used for stealthy, low profile assassinations upon [[guards]]. An unaware soldier may be assassinated without drawing too much attention, with stealth assassinations being possible from both behind and in front of the target. Altaïr rams the blade into the victim's abdomen (front) or through his spine (back). When stealth is not a priority, Altaïr may perform a high profile assassination. This involves sprinting towards the target, jumping and thrusting the blade into the victims throat, or major arteries in the neck. Alternatively, if approaching from behind, Altaïr may push the target onto his knees and stab him in the neck.

The hidden blade is the only weapon that Altaïr may wield while sprinting. When Altaïr is close enough to the victim during a foot pursuit, he may carry out an assassination. Altaïr will perform a running leap, landing on his victim from behind and burying the blade in the neck. This feature makes it an ideal choice for running down [[assassination targets]] who flee such as [[Talal]], the slave trader, in [[Jerusalem]].

Both low and high profile assassinations are capable of failure. A guard wary of your actions may catch your arm when you attempt the kill and throw you back. However, attacks from behind and attacks made upon guards who are prone on the ground will never fail, no matter the circumstances.

===Air Assassination===
[[File:Altaïr_using_the_hidden_blade.jpg|thumb|left|280px|Altaïr performing an air assassination.]]
In a [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=blXy3W2O2PE 2007 demo] of the [[William of Montferrat|William V of Montferrat]] mission, [[Jade Raymond]] introduced a move called "''air to assassinate''" that combines some of Altaïr's acrobatic skills with his hidden blade. Due to this, all forms of Air to Assassinate draw attention of nearby guards, even when performed in low profile.

From higher ground above a target, such as a nearby roof or beam, Altaïr leaps directly onto his victim and stabs him in the throat. Although the move was not covered in the manual or in-game tutorials, air to assassinate does exist, and the controls were documented by "Stabguy" on [http://www.thehiddenblade.com/air-assassinate-guide The Hidden Blade] website. Note that in ''[[Assassin's Creed II]]'', ''Air to Assassinate'' was renamed ''Air Assassination'' and included as a required tutorial with simplified controls.

{{-}}
===Combat===
The hidden blade can also be used while in combat. An enemy who has been grabbed and thrown (or counter thrown with a grab break) can easily be killed while he lies on the ground. Using the blade in combat against large groups is challenging, as Altaïr is unable to block ''any'' attack.

Additionally, the time frame in which Altaïr can counter-attack is extremely small, especially in comparison to that of the sword and the short blade. Successfully countering enables one of several different – and always lethal – counter-attacks, in which Altaïr stabs his opponent in the chest, head, abdomen, base of the skull, or spine.

It is also possible to assassinate the enemy in combat, while he is caught in a moment of inattention, has his back turned, is grappling with a vigilante, or if he is taunting Altaïr. Attempting an assassination at any other time will fail, as the enemy will always be able to block the attack.

===Mechanism===
[[File:Assassinscreedbladema5.png|thumb|The hidden blade ring mechanism.]]
The hidden blade is commonly worn on the left hand. The blade is integrated into the vambrace, and when not in use, sits retracted inside the slide mechanism. Though not fully or officially understood as to ''how'' the blade functions, there are a number of theories:

#When the Assassin flicks his wrist, the blade is ejected with the combined force of the arm and gravity. The user is "unhinging" or "releasing" the blade, which is normally kept locked in place. If the Assassin keeps pulling with his arm on the mechanism, the blade stays out and can be used in open combats.
#A ring mechanism is attached to the Assassin's finger, and opening the hand ejects the blade. This, however, raises the question as to why the blade does not activate every time he opens his hand, and how he can hold the blade in his fist without it retracting.
#A combination of the former two theories is used, wherein the blade won't eject or retract without the use of both systems. This would explain why Assassins flick their wrist and open their hand to eject the blade, why they can close their fist without the blade retracting, and why there is no fear of an unexpected stabbing.
#The blade functions on a spring-retraction system, where the blade is never truly locked when it is released, and would therefore return if not held in place.
#The mechanism functions in the same system as the modern, full-automatic switchblade knives. There are two springs of equal strength present, and the inertia from the pull/push of one spring is enough to overcome the resistance of the other spring, allowing the blade to lock into place.

===Roles on the Field===
====Informant missions====
The hidden blade is also used for some of the [[investigation]]s given to you by [[informants]], wherein you are asked to stealthily assassinate a number of targets. If any guard even once confronts you, the mission is failed. If you attack the targets or the guards with [[fists]], or any high profile weapon, you will fail the mission. Because of this, you may '''only''' use [[throwing knives]] and/or the hidden blade to assassinate your targets.

====Interrogation missions====
During [[Interrogation]] missions, after successfully interrogating the target, Altaïr is forced to kill them, so they cannot reveal his plans to the enemy. He will bury the blade in their stomach to kill them, then gently lower their body onto the ground so as not to draw further attention to himself.

====Save Citizen missions====
In the optional [[Save Citizen]] missions involving rescuing citizens from soldiers threatening to kill them, this weapon will come in handy. Successfully and stealthily used, you may take out three of the soldiers before they notice you, draw their weapons, and engage you in a swordfight. Also, the Save Citizen missions are commonly located in alleyways or dark corners, so it is possible to begin the mission by starting from an elevated position and performing an air-to-assassinate.

====Assassinations====
The hidden blade is used in every storyline assassination you perform. Even if you begin by attacking the enemy with a sword, you will always finish them off with the hidden blade before it cuts to the death cutscene.

==''Assassin's Creed: Lineage''==
[[File:Lineage Hidden Blade.png|thumb|300px|Giovanni's (later Ezio's) hidden blade.]]
In ''[[Assassin's Creed: Lineage]]'', the hidden blade wielded by [[Giovanni Auditore]] had been modified since Altaïr's time, with the blade base raised higher on the arm, to allow one to operate it without the need to sacrifice one's ring finger.

As outlined in the Codex, this revised hidden blade had been designed by Altaïr so that the Assassins, who he intended to go undercover, could not be identified by the lack of a ring finger. Furthermore, the mechanism did not require a wrist "flick" to extend the blade, thus the user could retract the blade without any wrist or hand movement.

Additionally, as pictured, the weapon could be used with a clenched fist (though only [[Giovanni Auditore]] has been depicted as using a clenched fist, while Ezio would use the "traditional" open hand, as did Altaïr).

While there is a rotating wheel atop the rear portion of the mechanism's housing, its function has not been identified, and there are no known schematics or explanations for the mechanism. There are also no shots of it operating during ''Lineage'', and it would often be shown on the actor's arm either sheathed or already extended.

==''Assassin's Creed II''==
{{quote|The blade is designed to ensure the commitment of whomever wields it.|[[Leonardo da Vinci]]|Assassin's Creed II}}
In ''Assassin's Creed II'', [[Ezio Auditore]] possesses two hidden blades, whereas Altaïr has only one. His first blade would be inherited from his father, which, along with the corresponding Codex page, the Assassin's Robes and a common sword, had been hidden in Giovanni's secret room. After he had gained proficiency with the first, Ezio would gain the second blade from [[Leonardo da Vinci]], who constructed it based upon designs detailed in Altaïr's Codex.

Ezio's first hidden blade had become inoperative since Giovanni had faced [[Rodrigo Borgia]]'s men (in ''Assassin's Creed: Lineage''), when a single sword strike against the blade had dislodged it from the bracer and mechanism. Thus, upon suggestion by fellow Assassin [[Paola]], Ezio brought the blade and bracer to his friend Leonardo to have it repaired.

[[File:Demond_blade2.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The blade given to Desmond by Lucy.]]
During a Templar attack on their [[hideout]], [[Desmond Miles]] received a similar (if not identical) model of the hidden blade from [[Lucy Stillman]]. This he used to face [[Warren Vidic]]'s henchmen, though its [[Poison Blade]] and [[Pistol]] upgrades are seemingly absent or inoperable.

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===Combat===
[[Video:---The Guide to the Hidden Blade---|thumb|right|300px|A video guide for the hidden blade in ''Assassin's Creed II''.]]
In ''Assassin's Creed II'', the use of the hidden blade in combat has been improved. It can be used similarly to a regular weapon, and is capable of breaking an enemy's defense. It attacks fairly quickly, particularly after the acquisition of the second blade, allowing Ezio to unleash a constant barrage of strikes, which can be used to kill an enemy or suppress their ability to attack. Unlike other weapons, no enemy can counter-attack the hidden blade.

The hidden blade also allows you to attack very quickly, and gives you more freedom in movement rather than the other weapons. For example, Ezio can easily strafe a 180 degree arch in the time it takes for the enemy to attack. This is barely possible (except from very close range) with the sword or dagger. It also allows Ezio to quickly flee from a battle without having to take the time to sheathe his weapon.

While the counter-kill timing window of the hidden blade is very short (a fraction of a second), skillful timing will be rewarded. Except in cases of enemy special attacks (such as that of a [[Brute]] or [[Seeker]]), a successfully timed counter will always kill the guard against which it is performed, even if the guard has high health or is a high-ranking soldier. Brutes in particular are very vulnerable and easy to counter kill with the hidden blades.

===Upgrades===
[[File:Hidden_Blade_Gun_Design_by_arceus2012.jpg|thumb|The hidden blade with a pistol upgrade.]]
Ezio would acquire several Codex pages that, upon decryption, detailed upgrades for the hidden blade, which Leonardo da Vinci was able to implement. The first of these improvements was the addition of a metal plate on top of the vambrace that, unlike in the original ''Assassin's Creed'', would allow one to safely deflect enemy attacks with the blades.

The other upgrades include the [[Poison blade]], which may be used to stab an enemy and leave them to die slowly, and the [[Pistol]], which is able to kill from a distance. Ezio can buy poison for the blade from [[Doctors]] and ammunition for the pistol at [[Blacksmiths]].

Additionally, both blades may be supplemented with various [[Armor|vambraces]], allowing Ezio to block heavier attacks.

===Techniques===
{{main|Assassination Techniques}}
Later on, Ezio is able to learn a variety of assassination techniques, from instructions detailed in the Codex.

====Double Assassination====
[[File:Double_assassination.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Ezio performing a double assassination between two guards.]]
Due to the addition of the second hidden blade, Ezio is able to kill two enemies at once. This technique may be performed on the ground (from behind or between two guards) or from above, as elaborated mentioned below.
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[[File:Air_assassination.jpg|thumb|left|250px|An Air Assassination in process.]]
====Air Assassination====
As previously mentioned, this technique is similar to ''Assassin's Creed'''s Air to Assassinate, and allows Ezio to kill an enemy by leaping onto them from above. He may also perform a Double Air Assassination, and kill two enemies from above at once, as long as they are close to each other. However, this technique is easily noticed by guards, and they will immediately attack upon witnessing it.
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====Hiding Spot Assassination====
[[File:956856_20090525_790screen003.jpg|thumb|right|250px|Ezio performing a Hiding Spot assassination.]]
Ezio may now assassinate enemies whilst hiding. Particularly useful against Seekers, Ezio may perform an assassination from hay stacks, benches, wells or any other hiding spot.
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====Ledge Assassination====
[[File:AC2 Rooftop archer.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Ezio pulling an archer from a rooftop]]
This technique may be performed on any enemy standing above a ledge from which Ezio may hang, and is particularly used against [[archers]]. Depending whether it is done in high or low profile, he will either pull the guard from the roof, and jump up to stab him in the chest.
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==''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood''==
[[File:Acbeziohiddenblades.jpg|thumb|250px|Ezio's new hidden blades in ''Brotherhood''.]]

In the beginning of ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]'', Ezio's two hidden blades from ''Assassin's Creed II'' are equipped as he escapes the [[Vatican]]. After he returns to [[Monteriggioni]], however, he removes his hidden blades, and is only able to salvage the first blade and bracer during the [[Siege of Monteriggioni]]. Upon his arrival in Rome, he is equipped with a single hidden blade, though its bracer has been replaced, courtesy of [[Machiavelli]].

Later on, however, Leonardo da Vinci is again able to reconstruct a second hidden blade for him, along with a new upgrade, [[Poison Darts]]. The dart gun is something of a combination of the poison blade and pistol upgrades, allowing one to use the effects of poison from a distance.

Additionally, [[Apprentices|Ezio's Assassin recruits]] are each equipped with a single hidden blade, as the right to use two hidden blades is only reserved for the most trusted of Assassins or those who have earned the rank of the [[Master Assassin]].

Desmond, in turn, wields a single hidden blade without a bracer, with only three straps to attach it to his arm.

[[File:Hidden_Blade.png|frame|left|The second hidden blade, purchasable from Leonardo.]]
===Combat===
In ''Assassins Creed: Brotherhood'', combat with the hidden blade has again improved. The time segment where you can counter with the hidden blade is slightly increased, allowing for more counter kills.

Also, a new ability called execution streaks are introduced, allowing Ezio to perform multiple instant kills after killing a single guard. Each kill must be quickly followed up with another, however, in order to keep the streak going. Being attacked cancels the streak, requiring Ezio to start another one.
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==Trivia==
===''Assassin's Creed''===
[[File:Zw-darius.png|thumb|Darius, the first to wield a Hidden Blade.]]
*In the E3 teaser trailer of the game (as well as in certain concept art), Altaïr can be seen pushing a button to operate his hidden blade. In the actual games, however, no such button or other trigger mechanism exists.
*On one of the [[Codex Pages]], it states that the blade has to be connected or linked with the user, thus explaining why Altaïr had his ring finger removed.
**In an ''Assassin's Creed'' [http://www.gametrailers.com/video/developer-diary-assassins-creed/13648 Developer Diary] video, Jade Raymond tells us about Altair's lack of his ring finger, which is due to the initiation ceremony when a novice is promoted to an Assassin. The ring finger of the left hand is cut off, the hidden blade is installed and the new born Assassin is ready to complete the missions bestowed upon him or her.
*Altaïr opens his hand and spreads his fingers whenever the blade is extended. Similarly, he never uses the blade with his hand clenched in a fist, and all stabbing moves or assassinations are performed with an open hand.
*[[Malik Al-Sayf]] was equipped with a hidden blade before he lost his arm, however he did not have an amputated finger. This is most likely an oversight.

===''Assassin's Creed II''===
*[[Patrice Desilets]], the creative director of the game, stated that the addition of a second blade in ''Assassin's Creed II'' also had a lucid reason: it's ''Assassin's Creed II,'' so there are 2 blades.
*The first recorded usage of the Hidden Blade by an Assassin was [[Darius]], when he assassinated [[Xerxes]] of Persia. However, his ring finger is still intact and he wields it on his right hand.
*According to the Codex, since the hidden blade was constructed from a rare metal, dual blades were only given to trusted Assassins.
*The original design of Ezio's second hidden blade in ''Assassin's Creed II'' was displayed as a brown glove, however, in-game, it was replaced with a second bracer. However, in ''Brotherhood'', his second hidden blade includes a glove, until a bracer is purchased.

===''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood''===
*When Ezio faints and awakens in Rome, it is unexplained why or how he lost his father's hidden blade bracer. It simply disappears and he is given a new one.
*When Ezio purchases the second hidden blade by Leonardo, it resembles the design for the gloved hidden blade from the E3 trailer of ''Assassin's Creed II'', until you buy armor for it.
*It is unknown why the ''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood'' cover,artwork,and the E3 Trailer of Assassin's Creed Brotherhood of Ezio depicts him with a secondary Hidden Blade bracer identical to his primary one, as in-game, no such second bracer exists.

===Others===
*In the ''Assassin's Creed'' novels (''[[Assassin's Creed: Renaissance]]'' and ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood (novel)]]'', unleashing the hidden blade required an activation switch.
*In the film ''Smokin' Aces'', one of the assassins sports a weapon similar to the hidden blade.
*In the movie ''G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra'', Storm Shadow uses a weapon similar to the hidden blade, though it is limited by the fact it must be operated with both hands.
*In the ''Mortal Kombat: Rebirth'' trailer, Dr. Alan Zane, a.k.a. Baraka has similar forearm hidden blades.
*In ''Soul Calibur: Broken Destiny'', the character Dampierre fights with two similar hidden blades, although much bigger in size.

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{{ACSeries}}
[[Category:Assassin's Creed Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed II Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Weapons]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Altaïr's Chronicles Weapons]]

Nero's Golden Palace

2011-01-03T02:36:44Z

108.27.80.41: /* History */

'''Nero's Golden Palace''' is a location in ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]''. It is underneath the [[Terme di Traiano]] and serves as a [[Lair of Romulus]]. The Palace is not optional, and serves as a [[The Halls of Nero|mission]] during Ezio's first memory sequence in [[Rome]].

==History==
Nero's Golden Palace was a lavish Palace built by the Roman Emperor Nero after the Great Fire of Rome in 64 AD. Some people say that he intentionally started the fire to make room for his palace on Esquiline Hill. However, after Nero committed suicide in 68 AD, the Roman Emperors Vespasian, Titus and Domitian built on top of Nero's Palace,effectively burying Nero's palace. Finally, Emperor Trajan built his famous bath house on top of what was left of Nero's palace, after which it was forgotten until the Renaissance. During this time, the Pagan Cult, the [[Followers of Romulus]] took over the ruined palace and kept one of the Romulus Scrolls here until it was discovered by [[Ezio Auditore da Firenze]] in 1500.

==Walkthrough==
First, Ezio must climb up a few columns and activate levers. With each lever activated, more water will fill the pool, and at the last lever, one of the columns will give way and reveal a hole. Perform a [[Leap of Faith]] down the hole, then work your way through the section, climbing up the columns and scaling the walls. Eventually, you'll come across a chamber, there will be a cutscene showing another room in which a Follower of Romulus will punch a fellow member, sending him crashing down below. Work your way to a small hole at the top of the chamber, then jump across the columns and scale the walls to get to the balcony. Once inside the small room, loot the regular chests if you want to make a profit, then loot the big treasure chest and then exit the Lair by using the doorway.
==See Also==
*[[Terme di Traiano]]
*[[Lair of Romulus|Lairs of Romulus]]
*[[Armor of Brutus]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Locations]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Secret Locations]]
[[Category:Landmarks]]
[[Category:Rome]]

Pantheon

2011-01-03T02:27:50Z

108.27.80.41: /* History */

{{WP-REAL|Pantheon, Rome}}
[[File:Pantheon..jpg|thumb|The Pantheon in ''[[Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood]]''.]]

The '''Pantheon''' was one of [[Rome]]'s oldest (the meaning of pantheon is ''Temple of all the gods''), and most famous Catholic churches.
===History===
It was built in 31 BC by Marcus Agrippa after the Battle of Actium. Later, it was restored to it's current form by the Emperor Hadrian, however, retaining Agrippa's original inscription and dedication (the inscription says ''M·AGRIPPA·L·F·COS·TERTIVM·FECIT'' and the translation to English says: "Marcus Agrippa, son of Lucius, in his third consulate,made this". It was used to commemorate the Roman gods and goddesses originally, but was converted into a church by Pope Boniface IV in 609. Both the name and style of the building have inspired similar churches in Europe, most notably a second Pantheon in Paris,France.

===''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood''===
In 1503, [[Rodrigo Borgia|Pope Alexander VI]] and his son, [[Cesare Borgia]], paraded through the city, escorted by [[Papal Guard]]s when they were ambushed by [[Ezio Auditore da Firenze|Ezio]] and his [[Assassin apprentices|apprenticed]] [[Assassins]] outside the church. The church is also a major landmark of Rome.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood E3 trailer">''[http://www.e3expo.com Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood E3 trailer]''</ref>

==Gallery==
<gallery captionalign="left">
180px-Pantheon.jpg|Artwork depicting the Pantheon.
ACB_SP_S_01_Rome_PantheonAndHorses.jpg|Riding on a [[Horses|horse]] towards the Pantheon.
assassins-creed-brotherhood-20100614060035497.jpg|The Pantheon in the ''Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood'' Multiplayer.
</gallery>

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Rome]]
[[Category:Landmarks]]
[[Category:Churches]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: Brotherhood Locations]]

Daniel Cross

2011-01-03T01:40:08Z

108.27.80.41: /* Trivia */

{{Stub}}
{{Character Infobox
|name = Daniel Cross
|image = Daniel Cross-The Fall1.jpg
|period = [[Modern Times]]
|faction = [[Assassins]]
|appear = ''[[Assassin's Creed: The Fall]]''
}}
{{Quote|You never kill an innocent, that's the first rule! Didn't you learn anything? ''[…]'' You're an Assassin.|[[Anna (modern times)|Anna]], to a confused Daniel Cross|Assassin's Creed: The Fall}}

'''Daniel Cross''' was an ex-convict and recovering drug and alcohol addict during the late 20<sup>th</sup> Century. Unknown to him at the time, he was also a descendant of an [[Assassins|Assassin]] – [[Nikolai Orelov]].

==Biography==
===Mysterious visions===
At one point Daniel Cross was ordered by the courts to regularly visit a [[psychiatrist]] to help him deal with his [[Bleeding effect|vivid hallucinations]] and criminal tendencies. During one visit, Cross refused to take his prescribed drugs consistently and instead visited a local bar. There he tried, unsuccessfully, to proposition several women before vomiting into a toilet. He began to have another hallucination of a white robed man in Russia named Nikolai Orelov and stumbled out the back door of the bar.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: The Fall - Issue #1">''[[Assassin's Creed: The Fall]]'' - Issue #1</ref>

Cross was stopped by a man who asks if he is okay. Daniel, thinking he was still Orelov, very nearly stabbed him and accused him of being a [[Templar]]. Fortunately he was stopped by [[Hannah Mueller]], who pulled him into a car driven by another man and revealed to him that he was an Assassin.<ref name="Assassin's Creed: The Fall - Issue #1" />

===Meeting the Order===
Hannah took Daniel to an Assassin camp, where they met with a senior member of the Order by the name of [[Paul Bellamy]]. Bellamy showed Daniel Cross his ring, featuring the Assassin Order symbol, matching a tattoo of the symbol on Cross' arm.

[[File:ACTF_2_Legion_CPS_010.jpg|thumb|left|224px|Cross taking out two other Assassins while hallucinating.]]
Daniel proceeded to return again to Nikolai's memories in Russia. Upon being questioned by Bellamy, Cross told him that he was leaving and when two other Assassins attempted to stop him, Daniel disabled both of them and was about to kill them before Bellamy put his [[Hidden Blade|hidden blade]] to Cross' neck.

[[File:ACTF_2_Legion_CPS_014.jpg|thumb|172px|Cross' mirror drawing of [[the Staff]].]]
Back in his room, Cross told Hannah that he had to get out of the compound to get his medication. Hannah gave him a white sweatshirt similar to Assassin robes and the two of them went to Daniel's apartment. Realizing that there was no medication left, he threw himself on the couch and he and Hannah began to discuss the order.

She told him that she was a computer expert and that the Mentor, the head of the Assassins, planned on rigging the next election so that the Assassins choice would win. She explained to him that the world would be a really scary place without the Order. The conversation went back to his hallucinations and Daniel revealed that an image kept sticking in his mind and drew a picture of it in the fog on his window: [[the Staff]].

===Finding a purpose===
Paul Bellamy bursted through the door and Daniel collapsed on the couch, in the midst of another vision. Bellamy revealed that another Assassin, [[Bill Miles]], informed him that a small Assassin team in Russia was sent to destroy the Staff in 1908 and there was only one survivor who disappeared and possibly ended up in [[wikipedia:USA|America]]: Cross' great-grandfather, Nikolai Orelov.

Bellamy realized that Cross was having another vision. Bellamy asked Cross to tell him what it was about, but [[File:ACTF_2_Legion_CPS_026.jpg|thumb|left|252px|Daniel realizes his purpose]]before he got an answer, Cross punched him in the face and ran up the to the roof, with Hannah and Bellamy in persuit. Daniel's memories began to meld with Nikolai's due to the Bleeding Effect and he saw Nikolai and his team raiding the Templar stronghold where The Staff was held in 1908.

When Nikolai touches the staff in his vision, Cross begins to see visions from The Staff: a voice talking about Adam and Eve, an ancient temple, [[Piece of eden|The Apple]], a satellite, and a shadowy man saying "come closer Daniel, so we may meet properly".
He then collapsed on the ground and Bellamy and Hannah ran to his side. Cross told them what he saw and that he now knew what he had to do: Find [[the Mentor]].<ref name="Assassin's Creed: The Fall - Issue #2">''[[Assassin's Creed: The Fall]]'' - Issue #2</ref>

==Trivia==
*His first name "Daniel" means "Judgment of God" or "God's Judgment" in Hebrew.
*It has been revealed by the developers of the comic that Daniel will play "a significant role" in the story of
*His last name,"Cross",is ironic,as Juno,the God [[Desmond Miles]],encountered at the Colosseum Vault,and Minerva,the God Ezio sees in The Vatican Vault,mention "To bear against the Cross",meaning Abstergo Industries and the Templars.

==Gallery==

<center><gallery captionalign="left" orientation="none" widths="184">
Image:Daniel-Cross.jpg|Daniel Cross suffering from the bleeding effect.
Daniel Cross 1.png|Daniel Cross.
screencaplarg.png|A capture of Daniel Cross
Daniel_Cross_Uncolored.jpg|Daniel Cross
</gallery></center>

==References==
{{Reflist}}

{{ACTF}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Cross, Daniel}}
[[Category:Characters]]
[[Category:Assassin's Creed: The Fall Characters]]
[[Category:Assassins]]