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Hot mists billowed up from the ground like pillars, forming an awesome skyscape of cloud and water. The Djinn led the way, both in direction and pace; Sometimes he performed sweeping dives through the geyser plumes, neither watching nor caring for the comfort of his guest. If Phi couldn't keep up with his flight, then she wasn't worth his time.

[b]"Once again, Painter, I must question your motives in this exchange."[/b] Viscount Phlegethon spoke evenly and assertively, even as his cloudy body flew at tremendous speed over the volcanic plateau. [b]"Should I ignore your words entirely, and establish myself as an elemental prince in your so-called 'Holy Land' without assistance, reigning or tormenting as I alone please, what then of your plans? What stand you to gain from such ostensible generosity?"[/b]

It was tricky for Phi to resist teasing the elemental with her speed. A gentle cruise for the avatar would be breakneck to mortals. Even djinni. She nearly giggled.

[color=cornflowerblue]"If the idea is so appealing to you, o Viscount, then for the good gods' sake, do it!"[/color] No force, no frustration in her voice. Phi's excitement was genuine. [colour=cornflowerblue]"If my idea seems generous, that is only because it coincides so very tidily with your own desires. Clashing interests are the source of all conflict; Deception births more lies. I tolerate Djinni far more easily than I tolerate instability. But if you insist, Phlegethon of the Fumaroles-[/colour] The pair took a sudden upwards turn, basking in clean sunlight- [colour=cornflowerblue]"I'll explain again."[/colour]

[color=cornflowerblue]"What I am assembling in the Holy Land, admittedly so-called, is a united mortal nation of hain, humankind, Rovaick, and Urtelem- That is, Mockdjinn. Potentially others. My guidance holds them together and stimulates their growth. The more blessings I can make available, the faster I can afford to push them. Your presence, Viscount, is a tremendous blessing."[/color]

[color=cornflowerblue]"With your springs, my folk can be warm and watered even in the depths of winter. Your pools have healing properties, and the land above your hidden throne is greatly fertile. Though your breath can kill on a whim, and your hand is scalding, there is no need for you to be feared."[/color]

[colour=cornflowerblue]"I have lived meagre years, Fumarole Spirit, but the depths of my knowledge are unfathomed. I know that your brothers of the water and the fire hold only scorn for you, for you are of both of their clans, and yet neither. But their approval is meaningless and shallow. I hold these people in the palm of my hand, Phlegethon. I can teach them submission and awe, the appreciation due for your tireless labour. My approval would raise you high in their sights. Then you could be honoured for your place in the natural order, like the Lords of the sea and blaze."[/colour]

Spiralling around one another, they reached the height of their leap, and, like choreographed acrobats, keeled away from one another to fall back down, crossing once more in a perfect heart-shape.

[b]"I will investigate this offer,"[/b] announced Phlegethon, with an air of tentative finality, [b]"If you will furthermore explain yourself the following: Why you keep company with [i]that.[/i]"[/b]

Grossly overestimating his ability to confound Phi's sense of direction in his maze, the elemental finished their flight by exiting from a dramatic bank of fog and gesturing to Old Walker, who sat patiently beyond. Their lace-winged fae orbited in gentle swooping circuits.

[colour=cornflowerblue]"[i]That,[/i] o Viscount, is the only thing quite crazy enough to drag around my core for the last six months. Mortals are too weak and Mockdjinn are too slow. Of course, if you'd rather carry me yourself..?"[/colour]

[b]"Bah!"[/b] Phlegethon turned with a flourish and strode back into his misty domain on a pier of clouds. [b]"Leave me now. I will arrive at your [i]Holy Land[/i] if and when I so please. Or I may not."[/b]

Sunlight filtered through the steam as it dispersed. In seconds, the entire plain was completely clear. Old Walker stood, the Kernel tucked safely under their arm, admiring the beauty of stone and water.

[colour=cornflowerblue]"Fish, meet barrel,"[/colour] purred Phi, squirming with satisfaction.