'SHADOW ARTS' Syntax: shadow (uses skill appropriate for present discipline) Syntax: shadowcloak / cloak Syntax: shadowshuriken / shuriken Syntax: shadowburst / burst Syntax: shadowmachine / machine Syntax: shadowspear / spear Before they may become full masters of the shadows, a pupil is initiated into the shadow arts, allowing them to exert control over their own shadow. These ancient techniques are passed down to the guild via ancient scrolls and will appear supernatural to the unlearned. In order to use one of the shadow arts the shadow must assume the correct discipline with the NINJUTSU command. If the shadow does not do it, it will be changed for them when they use the ability, creating a bit of delay in the proceedings. Spirit discipline: shadow cloak: The shadow vanishes, also curing the user's worst ailments. The clan 'Evermore Ryu' replaces this with their shadow shuriken ability. Air discipline: shadow burst: The shadow allows the user to move with great speed temporarily. Shadow discipline: shadow machine: (Dual wield only) The shadow strikes with amazing speed. The clan 'Red dragons' replaces the above with: shadow spear: The shadow travels to their target and attacks (this ability is restricted to use in either the same area or a distance of 30 rooms). Shadow arts differ from the earlier learned basic techniques of ninjitsu in that they are all entirely mana-based abilities. A shadow may regain their mana at a slow rate by using ki-consuming skills, or by meditating. If it is desired to have these abilities ready for use, then the shadow must be mindful to conserve enough of their mana resources for it. "flashy" arts such as machine will devastate these reserves. Note that performing some of these abilities makes it impossible to use the shadow arts again for a while.