Strange but real species

The Mimera mutation is a rare and complex phenomenon that emerges in certain magical creatures, granting them unique abilities related to the absorption and replication of other creatures' powers. While still not fully understood, this mutation represents a significant deviation from typical genetic and magical inheritance patterns.

Appearance and Origins

A Mimera does not exhibit any outward physical traits that distinguish them from their species; they appear entirely ordinary until their abilities manifest. Unlike genetic traits such as color patterns or magical horns, the Mimera mutation does not have a predictable or visual expression at birth.

This mutation only activates when both parents carry the recessive Mimera gene. As such, it is exceptionally rare, particularly in species where genetic variation is already limited.

Core Ability: Power Mimicry

The defining trait of a Mimera is their ability to replicate the magical powers or abilities of others through touch. However, this process comes with a number of limitations and intricacies:

1. Choice-Based Absorption: The Mimera can consciously choose whether or not to replicate a power. Unlike some creatures who may inadvertently trigger abilities, a Mimera must actively decide to absorb a power during contact.

2. Retention and Replacement: After absorbing a power, the Mimera can either keep it permanently or replace it with new abilities. The replication is not automatic, granting them significant control over their unique skill set.

3. Complete Transfer: When copying the abilities of another creature, the Mimera gains all the abilities that creature possesses. Selective absorption of specific powers is not possible, making the process all-encompassing but sometimes overwhelming.

4. Knowledge Dependency: A Mimera not only absorbs the magical abilities of their target but also inherits knowledge about the powers—provided the original user fully understands their own capabilities. If the creature is unaware of their latent abilities, the Mimera will gain the powers but will lack critical insights on how to use them effectively.

5. Touch Requirement: Physical touch is essential for the absorption of abilities. Magical projection or close proximity alone does not trigger the Mimera's power.

Biological Implications

Although the Mimera gene confers remarkable abilities, it comes with unique biological restrictions and interactions with other magical traits:

1. Exclusivity to Red Moon Changelings: The hyperdominant nature of the gene that gives Red Moon Changelings their powers prevents the Mimera gene from being active in these changelings. A creature cannot simultaneously express both genetic traits.

2. Reproductive Probability: While the Mimera mutation requires both parents to carry the recessive gene, two active Mimeras cannot pass on the mutation. The presence of two active genes appears to cancel out the mutation’s functionality, rendering their offspring non-Mimeras.

3. Adaptability: Despite being an exceedingly rare trait, the Mimera mutation’s inherent flexibility provides a significant evolutionary advantage. These creatures can adapt to dangerous situations by acquiring abilities from allies or enemies, ensuring survival even in hostile environments.

Social and Ethical Considerations

The existence of Mimeras raises important ethical and social questions:

Consent and Trust: Since the Mimera must touch others to absorb powers, trust is essential. In some societies, individuals with this mutation are distrusted or even ostracized, while others see them as valuable allies in conflicts.

Identity and Exploitation: Mimera individuals often grapple with their sense of identity, especially when their abilities come from others. This has also led to cases where Mimeras are exploited as tools in war or political games.

Weakness, any weakness that effects the original holder of the power a Mimera took has also been transferred