Master Assassin

The rank of Master Assassin was one of the highest obtainable within the Assassin's Order, and those who held this title were presumed to have reached the peak of their learning as an Assassin.

The rank garnered a large amount of respect from other members within the Order, and indicated individuals who possessed uncommon skill and talent in both the arts of stealth and assassination. A Master Assassin was meant to embody the Creed; they will never harm an innocent, always hide in plain sight, and never compromise the Brotherhood.

In 1191, Altaïr Ibn-La'Ahad held the position before being demoted to a novice following his failure to obtain the Apple of Eden beneath Solomon's Temple. He eventually regained this title, and held it during the assassinations of Robert de Sable and Al Mualim. One of his descendants, Ezio Auditore, also obtained the rank in 1499.

Crusades
Like other Assassins, Master Assassins of the time possessed the eagle beak-like design upon their hoods, but their robes were generally longer, forming a bird-like "tail" that fluttered whenever they performed a leap of faith or stood on a ledge. In addition, their leather belts were larger, their red sashes wider and longer, and they had permission to carry any weapon. The color of their robes remained white, as the only member allowed to wear another color, specifically black, was the Grand Master.

Renaissance
With the order much less public, a uniform guideline no longer existed. Renaissance Assassins were a small group, with access to knowledge and weapons. Most retained their free-running, hidden blades and beak-like hooded traditions.