Redhawk Caldera The faith that sets you free

A lot had happened over the last few weeks -- Somnia had disappeared, Finley's sister had joined their ranks, and the firebirds just kept growing. Similarly, Elwood's relationship with Finley was improving, though in subtler ways. They had settled into a comfortable routine that allowed them to spend an unhealthy amount of time with each other while still maintaining their roles as Beta pair -- and all without ever actually admitting that they were boyfriend and girlfriend.

Finally, Elwood was ready to take the next step. Hopefully.

He had spent his time away from Finley (which wasn't much) planning and executing his plan. He knew that it couldn't be too elaborate -- he didn't want to scare her away, as flighty as she was -- but he wanted to show her how much she meant to him. Sure, he said "I love you" on a regular basis, but those three words couldn't fully describe just how he felt.

So as the sun set, setting the landscape ablaze, he gathered the gem he had found with Somnia. It had been hidden safely in his den, and now, as he pulled it out into the light, he set it down at his paws to examine it. It was a fine specimen of agate, its flat, shiny surface marked with layers of ivory and red. Unfortunately, he didn't know the name of the crystal or how it had been made, but he assumed it had something to do with the once-active volcano.

After taking a deep breath, Elwood tipped his head back and called for @Finley -- hoping that he didn't sound too nervous.