Rendition of 'Harold'. Author unknown.
Contents
Description
While the name may lead some to believe that Harold is a singular entity, Harolds are actually a group of peddlers that work together to sell wanderers their wares. Harolds commonly carry packs of Almond Water, suggesting that these objects have similar effects on them.
Behaviors
While not normally harmful to wanderers, they have an anomalous effect on those who harm them, from memory loss and self-harm, to even death. It does not cause any afflictions to any other Harolds, however. If the Harolds come across obstructions of any kind, they will begin spitting noxious spheres of mucus, which will either harm the wanderer or melt the obstruction.
Their intelligence has been theorized to be close to that of great apes, due to knowledge of trading, and therefore, thieving. They have also been known to have superior strength, speed, agility, and reflexes, a seeming result of their habit of thievery. While Harolds are mostly found in cramped spaces, they can also live in areas with larger expanses. Harolds seem to have a loose hierarchy, with some individuals leading others. They possess a very advanced language and rarely make physical contact with others, but will follow others within range.
Biology
Harolds tend to dress in short red robes, marked with strange symbols, which exaggerate their short heights and hunched stature. Their skin is black, with glowing red eyes, and two pairs of vestigial limbs on their torso. They use these limbs to carry small objects they find, most commonly stolen from other wanderers. Harolds are prone to infighting, mainly caused by a Harold holding an object another Harold wishes to have. They have been observed to tinker with mechanical objects, such as television remotes and radios.
Discovery
Harolds were first discovered when a wanderer found a group of them conversing via small chirps and squeaks in Level 11. Once they saw the wanderer, they stared at him until he left.