Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of bullying and death.

Tallstar, the leader of WindClan (a group of cats), leads WindClan to a new territory: an unappealing, dank tunnel that is uncomfortably close to human civilization. Many members of WindClan question this move and whether it will be safe. However, they were driven away from their traditional territory by ShadowClan (led by a cat named Brokenstar). Despite the uncomfortable conditions, the new territory seems to have a supply of food and water, so the members of WindClan reluctantly agree to settle there. As Tallstar points out, “The weather is turning colder and leaf-bare will be here soon” (21).

At the ThunderClan camp, a warrior cat named Fireheart reflects on recent events. The previous day, members of ThunderClan (including Fireheart) allied with ShadowClan and helped them drive away their cruel leader, Brokenstar. The cats of ShadowClan had become increasingly unhappy with Brokenstar’s cruelty and lust for power (manifested through actions like driving WindClan away from their traditional territory).

Fireheart is proud of his role in defeating Brokenstar but is now burdened with a secret: Fireheart and his friend