doesnt answer your question but id just use particles to make your 'mist' and 'use object as source of field'

otherwise id be looking at buying a lot of tuts.., from fluids 101.., to particle/poly/fluid integration.

other than that 'punch' you hole in your fluid in your compositing package.., using an aplha matt, or what ever you think fits.., rotoscope, vignette.., whatever..,

beats me why people want to EVERYTHING in maya.., thats not how production houses would approach it.., i think??

maya is for elements more than SPX these days.

MHO

mirek