"Things like water and fire have no inherent life, mind, or will of their own," he said. "They can't 'try' to do anything, any more than a stone or other object left lying about can decide to get up and wander off on its own. They can only work according to their natures as elements of the world."

Seeking to steer the conversation in a new direction, he indicated the book Chara still held. "In any case, I've told you of the gift I received, what about yours? Is there any reason why you might get a book about snails, of all things?"