According to one version of local legend lava is the offspring of Pele and Ocean. It is the fire of Pele that makes it red hot, and the water of Ocean that makes it flow like a mighty river. The combination of the destruction of fire and the power of the ocean made the children of Pele forces to be reckoned with. In some Hawaiian legends the first born son of the ruling class is required to cover his face with a mask at all religious ceremonies in homage to Pele in the event that upon seeing his face she is reminded of Ocean and requires that he be sacrificed in memory of her great love.