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Aroha explained her call, “Nana Grace wants Pita to
bring you on to the marae.”

“What? I’m not going anywhere near that old
witch,” replied Anne Marie.

“If you want to see Kura you will go and talk with
Nana Grace,” replied Aroha. She further explained that
because they were visitors they had to first be
welcomed onto the Marae. Anne Marie was about to
protest when a look from Aroha silenced her.

The whanau again assembled in front of the house.
Anne Marie clutched tightly to Joel. Aroha responded to
the Karanga. Pita responded to the Whaikorero. It was a
much shorter exchange. Of course, Anne Marie
remained stony faced throughout and of course, she
refused to hongi anyone and would not let Joel do so
either.

Inside the house Nana Grace began, “Yes, she
speaks of me.” Aroha was in shock, as she continued,
“Yes, I am the witch that Kura’s mother ran from.”

Pita interjected, “Nana Grace you are no witch, he
tohunga rongonui koe, you are a renowned expert in the
sacred arts of your people.”

Nana Grace went on to explain, “Tu-Manawanui
had gone to work in Australia. Sherry was there on

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