The “Shape-shifter” is a famous feature of legend and literature. A being is transformed thru magic or demonic manipulation from one form into another, and thus becomes a major scare in mythology (gods and demons) and folklore (werewolves and vampires).

Now our poor BBO has been infected too! The deal below proves it:

Under great pressure I guessed to double 5♥ instead of trying 5♠ (for +650 or +850).

But I sure knew what to lead! As soon as it went P-P-P I RAMMED my finger down hard on my ♠K. Then I recoiled in horror – my hand SHAPE-SHIFTED diabolically to ♥5-2, ♠K-5 on the left!!!

Yes, now I had led the ♥5, so they easily drew trump and lost 3 tricks for +200, -8 IMPS. We were robbed of +800, but also of Vickie’s elegant play of her ♠Q at trick 1 underneath my K to get her two ♦ ruffs!

SIGH. Another 13 IMPs and our high overall eaten by that dastardly BBO Metamorph!