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Show - 18* - Roa's heart ached to be alone with his Moana. It was the first time thev had seen each other in many days. Their eyes met again over the fire as they had on the fateful night of their first meeting. He said to himself, "Ko te_ aroha te mea nui. Love is the greatest thing." Moana was adorned with fine garments, with pendants, albatross nlumes, called ka1wha rawhara, and other extraordinary decorations. Many remarked on her beauty. Roa snoke his feelings for Moana loud enough for everyone to hear. "Ko. Hine-titama koe, matawai ana te whatu i. te. tirohanga. Y 0 U are like the Dawn Maiden: the eye glistens when gazing unon vou." The feast, the singing and dancing were finally ended. It was time for Chief Roa to speak to his neople. "My people," he began, "I am proud to be your rangatira. I am proud and yet also humble, knowing the responsibilities that must be borne upon my shoulders. This night my words may offend some of you and your beliefs. I ask, however, that you hear me through with onen ears and onen spirits. "Many of vou are brave and valiant warriors. |