Bond Between Rivals

by Perpetual Paradox

AU. In a timeline where Rusty never joined ThunderClan as Firepaw, Tigerstar rose to power and, together with Brokenstar, ruled over the forest territory with strength and fear. After a fire purges the corruption from the forest and leaves the clans weak, they must unite and work together to survive. But can the feuding clans move on and set aside their differences?

1. Chapter 1

PROLOGUE

"Fire will save the clan."

The prophecy first uttered by Spottedleaf brought hope to ThunderClan in a time of uncertainty. Deputy after deputy fell, leaving the cats of ThunderClan shaken and lost. Bluestar led the clan valiantly through their hardships, and under her strong leadership as well as the watchful eye of her deputy, Tigerclaw, the clan prevailed.

Until the beloved Bluestar was found murdered in her den.

Tigerclaw stepped up to lead ThunderClan without hesitation. In the clan's weakened state, he ruled the territory with strength and fear. Cats loyal to him kept ThunderClan in line with violent threats and strict rules.

Before long, Tigerstar joined forces with Brokenstar of ShadowClan. Together, the two terrible leaders waged war on WindClan and RiverClan, bringing them to ruins with their combined strength and coordinated attacks.

Just when everything was on the brink of collapse, a devastating fire swept through the forest and brought an end to the tyrannical leaders by stripping away their remaining lives.

Fire would save the clans, but not in the way anyone would expect.

ThunderClan and ShadowClan were left in ruins from the fire, while WindClan and RiverClan had been almost completely destroyed by Tigerstar and Brokenstar. Only a few cats from each clan remained.

With all hope lost, the clan cats cower away in their dens, having barely enough cats to support themselves. The four clan leaders are dead, food is dwindling, and leafbare is approaching.

But StarClan has sent a message of hope.