…/species/devils/clutch_beetles/drive.md

The term Drive refers to a pseudo-metamorphic biological process exclusive to individuals infected with a Clutch Beetle, classified as Redliners. This state represents a temporary, hyper-adaptive transformation that provides the host with enhanced regenerative capabilities and the generation of mass.

Activation Mechanism

The Drive process is initiated through the transmission of a specific neural signal along the Redliner’s nervous system. This signal is hypothesised to mimic neurological patterns associated with imminent death or extreme trauma, prompting the Clutch Beetle to activate. While spontaneous activation is possible under sufficient stress, the process is most reliably triggered via a specialised tool known as a Drive Starter, designed to induce the required neural sequence.

Physiological Changes

• The Redliner’s blood undergoes a colourimetric shift, typically presenting hues ranging from green to blue, indicating the onset of the Drive state.
• Hosts acquire the ability to continuously regenerate from any form of physical damage, including otherwise lethal injuries. This regenerative capacity is directly fuelled by the host’s blood supply.
• Sustained Drive activity leads to progressive blood depletion. When blood levels fall below a critical threshold, the Drive will automatically deactivate. However, this effect can be delayed or reversed by ingesting blood, which replenishes the host’s internal reserves and allows continued Drive function.
• The Clutch Beetle’s extended neurological filaments are capable of generating additional, regenerating mass from its own structure. This material may exhibit mechanical or hybridised appearance, yet remains fully organic.
• Once the Drive ends, all generated mass disintegrates, reverting into red particulate dust. This process is irreversible and leaves no physical residue.

Drive Types

Drives manifest in a variety of specialised forms, classified based on the pattern and function of mass generation during activation. These subtypes are not mutually exclusive but typically follow consistent morphological and functional trends. The three most recognised Drive types are Körper, Waffe, and Doppelt.

Körper-Type Drives

Körper (German for “body”) Drives are characterised by the comprehensive generation of additional mass that envelops the entire user.

• The resulting structure may resemble a fitted armour or a massive construct, often extending well beyond the user’s natural dimensions.
• Regardless of external size, the user’s original body is always located near the brain stem region within the generated mass.
• Körper manifestations provide significant defensive and physical enhancements, effectively functioning as full-body exosuits or biomechanical avatars.
• The user retains full control of the mass, and destruction of the outer structure doesn’t results in immediate user death, unless the core region is directly targeted.

Waffe-Type Drives

Waffe (German for “weapon”) Drives are defined by localised generation of mass, modifying individual limbs or specific anatomical regions.

• The transformation is anchored to existing body parts, most commonly the arms, head, or back.
• These modifications enhance offensive or sensory capabilities without altering the user’s full appearance.
• The remainder of the user’s body remains biologically unchanged, preserving full mobility and function outside the enhanced area.

Doppelt-Type Drives

Doppelt (German for “double”) Drives produce a secondary, fully autonomous body, distinct from the user’s physical form.

• This independent construct is created entirely of Drive-generated mass and operates at a functional remove from the host body.
• The secondary entity retains humanoid form in most cases, ranging in size from 30 cm to 30 m, with the average height around 1.9 to 2 m.
• While it demonstrates autonomy and intelligence, the entity remains neurologically or metaphysically tethered to the user, operating within an undefined range.
• If this range is exceeded, the entity automatically deactivates and disintegrates.
• Like all Drive forms, it is sustained by the user’s blood, and must be reformed anew with each subsequent activation.