Shadow Imitation Technique


 * Name: a.k.a.
 * Type: No Rank, Supplementary, Mid range (0-10m)
 * Users: Nara clan
 * Hand seal: Rat
 * Debut (Anime): Episode 33
 * Debut (Manga): Chapter 55

The Shadow Imitation Technique's original purpose is to delay pursuers in order for a team to flee. With the use of a hand seal, the user can stretch a shadow up to twice the length of all of the shadows the projected "shadow" touches combined. If a target is captured within the user's shadow, the result is that the two combatants will mirror each others' movements. Therefore, the two can throw shuriken at each other at the same time if the user desires that.

The major downside of the Shadow Imitation is that it is tiring to use repeatedly, as seen in the Chunin Exams when Shikamaru Nara was paired off to fight Temari in the finals. If the user is low on chakra, the performance rate of the technique deteriorates. Hidan also notes that the ability is subject to some form of diminishing return and decreases in potency after repeated use. Another downside to the techinique is that the user is only able to stretch, contract, or expand their shadow to its total surface area. Though this is an advantage during the times of dusk and dawn (as shadows are at their largest then), it becomes a major problem during the time of mid-day.

The Shadow Bind Technique is the older form of the Shadow Imitation Technique. This version merely restricts the target's ability to move without forcing them to copy movements. Judging from the Sound Ninja's out of date intelligence regarding the naming and capabilities of the jutsu, it is reasonable to assume that the current Shadow Imitation Technique was developed in the time since Orochimaru left the village.

Trivia

 * In the manga and japanese version, when Naruto comes punching Gaara and Shikamaru suddenly shouts while he captured him with the Shadow Imitation Technique, Shikamaru says to Naruto that he'll move the same as the victim of the technique. In the english anime, Shikamaru says that he'll get the same pain as Gaara. Although, later in the series, when his opponent gets hurt even while they're captured, Shikamaru doesn't seem to show any signs of injuries.

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