Shapeshifters

A Shapeshifter posing as the spirit guide, Fiona .

### Appearance

Humanoid that can appear as any person they see or come into contact with, they exhibit white eyes with black pupils when seen with a camera or in light.

### Episode(s)

2.05 Fractures

Shapeshifters, or just called shifters for short, are beings who can take the form of any human being they see or have come into contact with, powerful Shapeshifters can copy people to a perfect level however they are hated by most things in the living world as they are seen as outcasts, it has been thought that in Shapeshifter; one Shapeshifter, referring to itself whilst in hiding in a bid to not gain attention, once said: “Maybe this thing was born human but was different. Hideous and hated. Until he learned to become someone else.” suggesting that Shapeshifters are not actually monsters however this has never been confirmed as shifters tend to keep a very low profile.

According to lore, they are related to Skinwalkers as they share many characteristics, abilities and weaknesses.

## Characteristics

In the "Lincoln City" series, Shapeshifters are human-like beings who learn to morph their appearance at various stages of life, some from infancy and others later. Initially human, they possess common human traits and desires, making them the most human-like monsters. Unlike instinct-driven creatures like vampires or werewolves, shapeshifters act on choice.

These beings can rapidly change into anyone, shedding their skin, teeth, and nails during transformation. This process allows them access to their target's thoughts. Their transformations range from mere seconds to several hours and can include fictional or non-human features depending on what their main goal is. Uniquely, shapeshifters can't detect their kind and exhibit a distinct silver-gold eye glow on camera known as Retinal flare which is one of the only ways one could be identified.

Shapeshifters' relationship with their appearances varies: some constantly change, while others prefer a consistent look, raising questions about their true, original form.

## Possible Alpha Shapeshifter

A whispered conspiracy among hunters suggests the existence of an Alpha Shapeshifter, a being far more powerful and elusive than its counterparts. Rumored to be the progenitor of all shapeshifters, this Alpha is believed to possess unparalleled shape-shifting abilities, capable of complex transformations with flawless precision, and without the usual physical shedding associated with regular shapeshifters.

Unlike others of its kind, the Alpha is said to retain all memories and abilities of the forms it takes, leading to a vast accumulation of knowledge and skills over centuries. Hunters speculate that the Alpha can sense and perhaps even control other shapeshifters, a trait no other shapeshifter possesses. This Alpha Shapeshifter remains a shadowy figure, with every reported sighting shrouded in mystery and skepticism

## Powers and Abilities

* Shapeshifting: The core ability of a Shapeshifter to alter physical appearance to resemble any person they have seen or come into contact with
* Skin Shedding: During transformation, shapeshifters shed their skin, teeth, and nails, a process necessary for assuming a new form.
* Super Strength: Shapeshifters possess enhanced physical strength, surpassing that of average humans, allowing them to overpower their opponents with ease.
* Telepathy: Shapeshifters have the ability to access the thoughts and memories of the person they are imitating, enabling a more accurate and convincing impersonation.
* Voice Mimicry: Shapeshifters can perfectly replicate the voice of the person they are mimicking, further enhancing their disguise and deception capabilities.

## Vulnerabilities

* Animals: Certain animals (mainly Dogs) can sense the unnatural presence of shapeshifters, reacting aggressively or fearfully towards them.
* Cameras: On video and in photographs, shapeshifters' eyes exhibit a distinctive silver-gold glow, potentially revealing their true identity.
* Decapitation: Like many beings, shapeshifters can be killed through decapitation, a definitive and fatal method.
* Iridium: This rare metal is toxic to shapeshifters, causing them severe harm or potentially death upon contact or exposure.
* Retinal Flare: The unique glow in their eyes, visible in certain lighting conditions or when caught on camera, can betray a shapeshifter's presence.
* Silver: Similar to other supernatural entities, shapeshifters are vulnerable to silver, which can injure or kill them.

## Episodes

### 2.05 Fractures

*Shapeshifter: James Wainwright*

This Shapeshifter masquerades as James Wainwright, a man who mysteriously dies and resurrects multiple times. This bizarre phenomenon draws Shane and Fiona to Lincoln County Hospital, where they encounter James alive in the morgue. The situation escalates when James exhibits unnatural strength and aggression, attacking Dr. Rapport and demonstrating abilities far beyond those of a normal human.

The true nature of the Shapeshifter is gradually unveiled as it confronts Shane and Fiona. In the mortuary, it engages in a violent struggle with Fiona, overpowering her with its supernatural strength. The Shapeshifter's ability to mimic others and its formidable combat skills make it a dangerous foe. It reveals itself not only as a master of physical confrontation but also as a being that delights in chaos and deception, taking pleasure in manipulating and toying with humans.

The Shapeshifter's confrontation with Shane (later in the episode) further showcases its malevolent nature. It taunts and physically assaults Shane whilst in Fiona's form, enjoying the psychological and physical torment it inflicts. This encounter underlines the Shapeshifter's sadistic tendencies and its delight in causing fear and suffering, Fiona soon enters the room however and the Shapeshifter reveals its true form, shedding its skin and going between the appearances of Dr. Rapport and James Wainwright, displaying its shapeshifting ability. Its downfall comes when Fiona, driven by determination and anger, confronts the Shapeshifter's version of herself and defeats it using her silver blade. The Shapeshifter's demise is marked by its painful transformation back into its true form, ending its reign of terror.

In the aftermath, the Shapeshifter's actions leave a lasting impact on Shane and Fiona. They are left to ponder the implications of encountering such a powerful and malevolent entity.