Both of you are correct, in essence (sans the scientific deduction for a moment), however there is a reason Pele only "lives" in Halema'uma'u.
Kamohoali'i, her favorite brother, mediated the fight between Pele and Kamapua'a (her one time lover). Kamahoali'i banished Kamapua'a to the area "past the Wainaku bridge" (ie. Hamakua, Kamuela, Kohala/Hawi, Puako, etc.), and Pele to Puna. In order to keep peace, Kamohoali'i (the epitome of a warrior, and said to be quite handsome) took control of the potentially fatal fight. Both Pele and Kamapua'a agreed when Kamohoali'i proposed the "settlement".
Pele can indeed go where ever she wants, yet, if she breaks the promise made to Kamohoali'i, the bond she held most dear would be gone. Kamohoali'i knew Pele's wrath, and she knew his strength as a warrior. They need each other for balance.
(*Disclaimer: according to my
Kukumahalo/Greatgrandmother; not written. FWIW.)
Poliahu was another subject...a different disagreement with Pele, her volatile, older sister. Poliahu "lives" up Mauna Kea for a reason.
Gather your "hot cocoa and craka", blankets, flashlight, keiki/mo'opuna, and enjoy the sight...It is always magnificent! [
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]
Make sure you remember, if you see an old, old lady, or a young beautiful woman hitchhiking in the Puna area, to do what your
na'au (gut) dictates. (Oh, if there is the white German Shepard size/looking dog nearby, then you know it's "her"...)
Aloha mai, e Tutu! Mahalo e Tutu, e ho'i mai! E ho'i mai!
JMO.
ETA: typo, sorry.