Valentine Pontifex (The Majipoor Cycle Book 3)

In the third novel of this sci-fi/fantasy series, the ruler of the vast planet Majipoor faces external threats and internal political conflict. Lord Valentine is troubled by recurring nightmares of blizzards and earthquakes, which he interprets as omens of coming war between his people and the Shapeshifters—a group who once ruled Majipoor and have long conspired to reclaim it. Recently, Shapeshifters were discovered impersonating members of the royal court. Since taking power, Valentine has pursued peaceful negotiations with the Shapeshifters. This diplomatic approach has made some members of his court question his loyalty and judgment. Certain courtiers now seek to remove him from his governing position by promoting him to the higher, ceremonial office of Pontifex. If Valentine accepts this role and relinquishes power to his designated successor, he risks being seen as a leader who abandoned his responsibilities and potentially jeopardized the eight-thousand-year peace that has held.