GROALING - TIMELINE #8071107

(Timeline Tuesday #58)

Groalings are an invasive species of invertebrate with a perfectly round shell. These creatures are approximately six and a half inches in diameter, with a distinct black coloration. Groaling shells are perfectly smooth and spherical, giving them an appearance that is remarkably similar to the bowling balls of this timeline. 

It’s this disguise that allows Groalings to thrive on our reality. The species is parasitic in nature, requiring a host for sustenance once they mature into adulthood (However, young Groalings do not require food or water). Once maturing to their full size, Groalings will listen for the sound of clattering pins, sometimes traveling hundreds of miles to creep into a bowling alley and integrate themselves within the other balls. They will remain here until someone is unfortunate enough to stick their fingers within the creature’s three round orifices.

Groalings spring their trap by using powerful inner beaks to clamp onto their host's fingers, sealing them tight within the creature’s body. The pressure makes it impossible for someone to remove their hand, and several venomous spines serve as an even more powerful detractor. If the Groaling shell is cracked, or any other removal attempts are made, the creature will poison its host.

Ultimately, anyone who finds a Groaling attached to their hand will be forced to simply deal with the creature for a few weeks, lugging around a large, bowling-ball-shaped object wherever they go. Groalings will typically remain attached for fifteen days, during which time they will drink their host’s blood for energy.

When a Groaling detaches it will immediately roll away, searching for a warm dark place to settle. At this point, the creature will finish its lifecycle by cracking open and passing away. At the same time, it will give birth to a new brood of young Groalings (usually between four and eight creatures.)