The Mercurian

"The Mercurian" by Frank Belknap Long is a science fiction novella that unfolds on the scorching planet of Mercury, where a crew of uranium miners face the extraordinary. Young officer Rawley's life takes a turn when the team captures an unusual frog-like being. This creature is more than it seems, using telepathy and great intelligence to upend the miners' lives and put everyone at risk by exposing their fears. As tensions mount, Rawley must contend with both the external threat of the Mercurian and internal challenges, especially his growing affection for Sylvia, the commander's niece. This dynamic adds an emotional intensity to the struggle for survival as the crew are forced to fight their mysterious and lethal adversary.