Let's start with a concise and practical guide for Zed, the Master of Shadows.

Zed is a high-skill-cap assassin who excels in the mid lane, known for his deadly shadows and burst damage potential. His playstyle revolves around precise ability combinations and strategic shadow placement.

Core Abilities

• Q (Blade Shuriken): Primary damage source and poke tool
• W (Living Shadow): Creates a shadow for mobility and ability combos
• E (Shadow Strike): AoE damage and slow
• R (Death Mark): Ultimate ability that marks targets for death

Skill Order R > Q > E > W

Key Combos

1. Basic Trading Combo:

   • W → E → Q (Safe poke from distance)

2. All-in Combo:

   • R → W → E → Q → AA (Maximum burst damage)

3. Safe Execution:

   • W → R → W → E → Q (Against ranged champions)

4. Extended Fight:

   • W → E → Q → R → W → E → Q → R (Against bruisers)

Laning Phase Strategy

• Level 1-2: Farm safely with Q, preserve energy
• Level 3: Start trading with W-E-Q combo
• Level 6+: Look for all-in opportunities on wounded targets

Core Build

Starting Items:

• Long Sword + 3 Health Potions

Essential Items:

• Eclipse/Duskblade (Mythic)
• Youmuu's Ghostblade
• Serylda's Grudge
• Edge of Night

Tips for Success

• Track enemy cooldowns before engaging
• Use shadows to fake engages and bait abilities
• Save energy for all-in combinations
• Don't engage without vision of enemy jungler
• Practice shadow placement in different scenarios

Common Matchup Advice

Against Ranged:

• Focus on farming with Q
• Wait for level 3 before trading
• Use W defensively until all-in opportunity

Against Melee:

• Aggressive Q poke
• Control wave near your tower
• Look for early trades with W-E-Q

This champion requires significant practice to master but offers high reward potential for dedicated players.

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