Dark dreams stir Lord Valentine's sleep. The Shapeshifters scheme in secret to regain their stolen world, and confusion and chaos are whispered on the winds of Majipoor. A planet that has known only peace for countless centuries must now prepare itself for war.

To save Majipoor, Valentine faces an anguishing choice--accept the mantle of Pontifex and surrender the high office of Coronal to his ambitious young successor Hissune, or use his own great powers to avert a long nightmare of bloodshed and battle.