I encountered this playing Ninja Gaiden 2 on the second run through, so im using the maxed out weapons. the weapon I was using when this occurred was the Blade of the Archfiend and it was on the third level just as i was about to run up the stairs when it suddenly changes camera viewpoint, i disappear and the words 'The Candles Have Been Lit' appears at the bottom of my screen. i can no longer move and i cant take damage either, however enemies still appear to be able to see me, and all that is left is the spark from the Archfiend blade.

Anybody got any ideas what in hells name happened? (less info)