The narrative unfolds on a small planet named Balak, located 20,000 light-years from Earth, where a team of four human explorers encounters an unexpected challenge. Upon landing, they meet Gaffa, a native resembling a pink octopus, who introduces them to a peculiar situation involving two identical Terrans, both claiming to be Ira Haslop, a man marooned on Balak for twenty-two years. The Balakians, a species known for their advanced understanding of symbiosis, have created an android that perfectly mimics Haslop's appearance and memories, presenting the explorers with a test to determine which Haslop is real. The explorers, led by Captain Corelli, must identify the genuine Haslop before sunrise, or risk being trapped on Balak indefinitely. As they engage in various methods to distinguish between the two men, they face challenges due to the identical nature of the Haslops, who have spent years together, effectively mirroring each other's thoughts and behaviors. The team considers personal memories, background details, and psychological tests, but each approach proves futile. Tension escalates as the explorers realize the time constraint imposed by Gaffa, who hints that the solution may lie in the dietary needs of the two Haslops. The Quack, the team's hypochondriac medic, inadvertently becomes a pivotal character when he consumes a potent drink, leading to a chaotic moment that reveals the true Haslop. The concoction, a "twin Mickey," causes a physical reaction that distinguishes the real Haslop from the android, ultimately allowing the team to escape their predicament. The story concludes with the Balakians expressing a desire to join the Terran Realm, and the Quack gaining unexpected fame for his role in the resolution. The narrative highlights themes of identity, the complexities of self-awareness, and the unpredictable nature of exploration, all while maintaining a blend of humor and tension throughout the unfolding drama.
By Roger Dee Aycock · First published 1970 · Genre: Science Fiction, Adventure, Mystery