METAMORPHIC FRENZY

Overview: Invertebrute Grabuki cannot go into Parasitic Moder, but they possess defensive mechanism called Metamorphic Frenzy (Or for short "Frenzy Mode"), akin to the strategies insects use to deter predators. This process mimics rapid molting, where the outer shell or skin cracks and tears, revealing the underlying soft or hard tissue depending on their body type (inverting). As a last resort, this transformation serves as both a defense,offense, and intimidation display.

Hard-Bodied Invertebrute: In Hard-Bodied Invertebrute Grabuki, the process of Frenzy Mode is the cracking of their armor. These Grabuki, characterized by their tough outer shell, undergo a dramatic process:

Stage 1: Initially, cracks form at the base of the neck, and the outer shell fractures into multiple pieces. The internal muscle structure holds the shell open, revealing a softer, softer flesh underneath. If the cracking extends beyond the base of the neck, the energy required to maintain this form may result in cellular damage, posing a lethal risk to the Grabuki.
Stage 2: Invertebrute with Parasitic Mode Tolerance may undergo further progression, with the cracking spreading throughout the entire body. The protective outer shell may completely fall away, exposing a more flexible, elastic body at the cost of reduced defensive capability.
Stage 3: If the process reaches this final stage, the hard exoskeleton is fully shed, leaving the Grabuki highly mobile but severely vulnerable. This stage is extremely rare and dangerous due to the immense energy expended.

Soft-Bodied Invertebrute: For Soft-Bodied Invertebrute Grabuki, Metamorphic Frenzy manifests as a shedding of skin rather than cracking of an exoskeleton visually similar to the molting of insects.:

Stage 1: The process begins with the gradual fading and shedding of skin and fur, which disintegrates into fine dust-like particles. Invertebrutes with wings may increase in size to scare off enemy. During this stage, an internal exoskeleton (or armored structure) begins to form beneath the shedding layers, though the skin never fully disappears, preserving the Grabuki's mental and physical stability.
Stage 2: For Invertebrute with Parasitic Mode Tolerance traits, the transformation is more extreme. All outer layers, including wings, are completely shed, revealing a fully formed armored exoskeleton, resembling the durability and structure of a dragon’s scales. This transformation enhances defensive capabilities but compromises speed and flexibility.

After Frenzy Mode has ended, Invertebrute initiate a regenerative phase, attempting to restore their original skin and physical form. To facilitate this, they enter a hibernation state, remaining dormant until their body has fully recovered. However, prolonged or excessive use of Frenzy Mode—particularly if the Invertebrute cannot hibernate soon enough—can lead to severe cellular degradation, with the Grabuki fading away into dust.

Should hibernation extend beyond the typical recovery period, the Invertebrute may undergo an unintended fossilization, their bodies gradually solidifying (similar to fossilized lizards or insects). It remains unknown whether they retain consciousness in this state, but fossilization effectively traps them in a form of "eternal sleep," from which they cannot awaken...

(Design concept is inspired by
the molting process of insects,
Death Angel from The Quiet Place, and
Seregios from Monster Hunter)