Scholar

Scholars are holy men, always deep in prayer. The player will unlock groups of scholars by saving male Citizens. They all wear white robes similar to Altaïr's outfit. They may be found in all cities, excluding Masyaf, as they walk through the city, praying, in a diamond formation. Their main function in the game is to act as as a hiding spot.

Function

If Altaïr is being chased by guards, and he manages to break their line of sight, he may blend in with the scholars and fool the guards. To do this, the player must move Altaïr near a group of Scholars and press the Feet button, which is either A (Xbox 360), (Playstation 3), or the Space bar (PC default layout). He will move to the center of the group, begin walking with them, and will lower his head and pray (or at least appear to be doing so). If Altaïr was outside the guards' line of sight when he began blending with the scholars, the guards will give up on the chase in a few seconds.

Scholars have an additional use- getting past entrances blocked by guards. Each of the three large cities' entrances and some paths to restricted areas within the cities are blocked by guards who will push Altaïr away if he tries to enter. A group of scholars should be near these entrances; Altaïr can blend in with them and they will enter the restricted area. The guards will allow the scholars go by, thus granting Altaïr easy access without climbing buildings or fighting. Once Altaïr is inside the restricted area, the player may exit the blend by pressing the Feet button again.