Ivypool's Decision

Introduction

When the four cats returned to camp, Firestar had just called a meeting; cats were gathered under the Highledge. The ThunderClan leader was meowing, " Dovewing, Lionblaze, Foxleap and Squirrelflight will be going. That's the end of this meeting."

Curious, Ivypool raced to Dovewing's side and inquired, "What's going on? Why are you guys leaving?" Dovewing explained, "Jayfeather had a vision about the Tribe. We're going there now! Now, if you'll excuse me, Ivypool, I've got to go!" With that, her sister dashed to the medicine cat's den, her sleek tail streaming after her.

Fury and jealousy burned in Ivypool's stomach. How dare Dovewing dismiss her like that? Ivypool was her sister, for the Dark Forest's sake! Also, why was it Dovewing? Sure, she had powers, but Ivypool was way stronger, faster. What had the pale-gray she-cat ever done for ThunderClan?

"We weren't even there when you chose them, Firestar! Why can't we go as well? Why does Dovewing always get favouritism?" Toadstep yowled furiously, his amber eyes glaring as he looked at Firestar. "I can fight as well as Lionblaze, I bet!" The flame-coloured tom stared sternly at the black-and-white tom. "No, you can't. And based on your outburst, you aren't mature enough, either."

Sympathy filled Ivypool as Toadstep backed away, looking hurt and disappointed. Firestar softened his voice and added, "I'm sure that you meant well, Toadstep. But know that I do not favour Dovewing in any way." Nodding reluctantly, Toadstep headed into the warriors' den, looking forlorn.

Padding inside after him, Ivypool found the tom curled up in his nest, looking as miserable as a drowned mouse. He looked up as Ivypool approached. "I know, you're going to tell me that I'm not good enough like the rest, aren't you?" he hissed bitterly. Shocked by his vehemence, Ivypool pushed her nose into his thick fur. "No, Toadstep. I came here to tell you that many cats feel the same, more or less. Tonight, when you dream, hopefully all shall become clear to you." 

Wariness still lingering in his eyes, he finally nodded. Letting the tip of her tail brush against his spine, Ivypool purred softly, then left the den.

Outside, sunset was coming, so Ivypool brought a mouse and settled beside Thornclaw and Blossomfall. "I saw you speaking to Toadstep. Did you finally find a mate?" teased Blossomfall playfully. Rolling her eyes, Ivypool replied, "Nothing of the sort. I think I've found a new recruit for the Dark Forest." "What, Toadstep?" Blossomfall exclaimed, then clamped her jaws shut, looking around to ensure that no cat had heard.

Thornclaw was looking solemn. "Yes, Ivypool, I agree. Did you see Toadstep rebelling against Firestar just now? But...are you sure that we should benefit the Dark Forest? Our loyalty is still with ThunderClan, right?" "For now," Ivypool growled. "You do know that Brokenstar or Tigerstar is bound to kill you for even breathing that, don't you?"

Looking uneasy, Blossomfall changed the subject. "I heard at the Gathering that Antpelt was badly wounded. Do you know anything?" Gulping, Ivypool muttered, "I do. Thistleclaw was training Antpelt and I, but when Antpelt was cowardly in letting me escape, he injured Antpelt badly. I think...well, the wounds must be severe," she ended grimly.