Post by Lan Dawkins on Jun 17, 2007 15:32:31 GMT -5
((So, I'm posting this again, because I was proud of it. I'll finish it later, I just need a break from WWII))
Liesl sat on the hard bed, looking at her hands. The tattered gloves showed work-worn fingers, chilled to the bone. Pulling her thread-bare coat more tightly around her small frame, the blond sighed and looked around the barracks. There were many other women here, all cold and miserable. Turning her head, Liesl's blue eyes met hazel ones. They also met the small smile of her friend, Ani Hoffman.
“Chin up, Lies.” Ani stated in a horse voice. Ani had caught a slight cold earlier that winter, but due to insufficient medical attention, it had grown steadily worse. Even though she was worse off than Liesl, the brown haired girl still managed to keep heart.
Liesl nodded and lifted her chin up. She immediately lowered it to keep her neck warmer. “I guess it's just a rule here in these concentration camps to keep the prisoners as cold as humanly possible.” She stated bitterly.
“They just don't care. And they don't have the funds; using it all on the war.” Ani answered with her simple logic. Liesl leaned back against the cold wall, resting her aching back. Both girls came to a silent agreement that talking used up energy that Ani didn't have, so they sat in friendly silence. Liesl's thoughts strayed to her family.
Laurel was sitting on the other bed, huddled up. Leslee, her husband, and Lucy were safe in America as far as Liesl knew, however, she had no clue what happened to her parents. She had been separated from them when they had been caught. Liesl prayed they weren't dead, but she had no guarantees. Then, the girl's thoughts strayed to her twin brother. Last she had seen he had been taken to another camp with other men. He had been pretty badly beaten up when he had been taken off, and Liesl didn't know if he had been able to make it through the horrible conditions they were forced to live in.
“Oh, please, Lord. Let Lan be alive and well.” She prayed silently. Lan was her companion, her playmate, and her brother. She didn't know what she would do if he was dead. All Liesl could think about was the last glimpse she had had of his bruised face (his punishment for resisting the guards) looking back at her, his eyes sending encouragement to his sister.
A small tear rolled down the blond's face at the thought. Laurel seemed to have sensed her sister's sadness, because the young girl had curled up next to Liesl. Small hands stole around the older girl's neck as Laurel rested her head on Liesl's shoulders. “Don't worry, Lies. I'm sure Lan's fine.” She whispered.
Liesl smiled a bit and hugged her sister. “I hope so, Laurie.” She whispered back. At that moment, the door was flung open and a guard stood at the door. “Roll call. Everybody out.” The command was uttered in a harsh, clipping voice.
Liesl sighed and scrambled off the bed, along with Laurel. Turning around, she helped Ani off the bed and walked toward the door. “Chin up.” Ani whispered as they went to face the cold wind of the outside during the endless roll call.
Chapter 2
Liesl woke the next morning to the sound of a whistle blowing and voices commanding. Morning roll call. She jumped off of the bed she shared with eight other women, then helped Laurel down. Looking beside her, she saw Ani's feeble form getting out of bed.
“Here, Ani. Let me help you.” She offered, putting her arm under the sick girl's arms in order to help Ani up. “I think you need to go and see the doctor's station, An. You're burning up.” She added, feeling the feverish head of her friend.
“I went yesterday, but my fever's only 102. It has to be 104 to be admitted into the station.” Ani said weakly, her thin body suddenly wracked with a horse cough. Liesl had only a brief moment to look worriedly at Ani before they were pushed along outside. On her way out, Liesl grabbed Laurel's hand, making sure her little sister stayed with her.
After roll-call, the three girls rushed back to the barracks to get ready for a day of working. While making sure Laurel was as warm as she could be, Liesl cast a glance at Ani. “You know, I wouldn't be surprised if that fever didn't go up and you can get some medical attention.” She stated, trying to be cheerful.
Ani looked up at her friend with pain filled eyes. “Liesl. You and I both know I'm not going to last in this place. You're strong, you can take it. But I just can't.” She said with bluntness that hurt Liesl's heart to hear.
“No, Ani. You're going to make it. We all are.” She argued, stubbornly refusing to believe the blatant truth of the situation.
Ani just gave Liesl a small smile. “I'm not afraid to go, Liesl. It'll almost be a relief. I just want to do as much good for these people while I'm still here.” She stated, standing up and facing Liesl. “Now. We've got work to do.”
Liesl just stared at Ani as the girl made her way slowly to the door. She stood there for a minute before Laurel tugged on her sleeve. “You know. I think I saw a truck come and unload more prisoners at the men's part of the camp.” The small girl told Liesl. “And since I was close to the fence, I saw the men get out. I think I saw Lan.” There was a sparkle in the blue eyes as these words were spoken.
Liesl looked down at her sister in surprise. “Are you sure?” She asked, voice doubting but heart soaring. If Lan was here, even across the fence, everything would be all right. Laurel nodded and turned toward the door. “While you're out working, maybe you can catch a glimpse of him. You do work with the men when you're digging.” The younger girl said.
As Liesl shoveled and dug in the dirt outside the camp, her thoughts kept straying to her brother. Just to see that tall frame, the messy brown hair and the sparkling eyes would be like heaven. Then Liesl thought about what he had probably been through. Most likely he was unhealthily thin and dull eyed; like how she was by now. He wouldn't be the same Lan in looks, but she hoped he was the same Lan in spirit.
The work day seem to go faster as the blond thought about her brother. When she was finishing up her work, she stole a glance around the camp before bolting over to the fence and peering through the barbed wire. “Please Lord. Just one glance.” She prayed, straining her eyes for any sight of her brother. Suddenly, a man walked right in front of where Liesl was standing. It was Lan. Liesl couldn't contain herself anymore.
“Lan!” She whispered-yelled. Turning around, the man just stood for a minute, before her started moving forward.
“Liesl?” A soft, but strong voice answered back As the voice spoke, a thin and work-worn hand stole through the fence and grasped her own. Liesl could have cried, sitting there and holding her brother's hand. “How're you holding up?” Lan asked in a whisper.
“Like you would expect. Laurel too.” Liesl whispered, taking in Lan's appearance. While he still had brown hair, it was cropped close. His face looked haggard and his eyes held no sparkle. There was a hint of happiness as he spoke to his sister, but Liesl could tell that it was hardly a normal fixture on his face.
Lan just sat for a minute, a small smile hovering on his pale lips. “I.... Oh, god, Liesl. You don't know how worried I've been...” He was cut off my a shrill whistle sounding, calling for prisoners to report back to barracks. “I'll talk to you later. Right here.” He said hastily. Liesl nodded and squeezed his hand before getting up also. She turned around and ran toward her barracks, joyful in the news she had to tell Laurel.
Chapter 3
Two weeks went by and Liesl was happier than she had been in her whole imprisonment. She and Laurel both had met with Lan for brief periods at a time. The siblings had caught up on each other and provided more encouragement than any of them had had in a long time. The girl had stopped noticing the difference in Lan's appearance and saw him as the old Lan – full of spirit and cheekiness.
Lan had some how found out that their parents had made it to America and were living with their aunt and uncle. This news had been wonderful for Liesl and Laurel. They now knew their where their whole family was. Lan also thought that Germany must be desperate in the war, because they were taking such puny workers to make ammunition. Plus, the German camps were filling up, meaning that the allies must be taking back some of the surrounding countries. Liesl was amazed at the amount of things Lan knew, but she took his word, since he seemed to somehow know.
It was after one of these meetings between Liesl and Lan that Liesl saw Laurel running to meet her.
“Liesl!” The small girl cried, catching her sister's hand. “Ani collapsed as she was working today and has been taken to the infirmary.” All of this information was relayed in an extremely fast voice.
“That means she'll finally get some medical attention.” Liesl said with a sigh of relief. Maybe Ani had a chance to get better. A chance to keep on spreading her warm presence through the barracks and keep on giving encouragement and hope to the hopeless women around her. Liesl finally felt like things were getting better now. She smiled at Laurel. “Finally.” She whispered.
Visitors were not allowed in the infirmary, so Liesl simply had to wait for any news of Ani's health. However, Liesl was able to talk one of the women from the barracks who had to relay objects to the infirmary to try and find word of Ani's health. When the women arrived back, Liesl found out that Ani had not yet received any medical attention, though she had been in there for a week. Sighing, Liesl prayed that Ani would received treatment soon.
One night, a pounding came on the door of the bedroom. One of the women opened it and a guard addressed her, demanding belongings. The women turned around to collect the articles, since the guards never came into the bedding rooms-- 'That place is filled with fleas!' a guard had once said in disgust.
Liesl sat up and looked at the belongings being gathered up. Ani's. Fear gripped the girl's heart. “Did someone die?” She whispered to the women.
Looking up at the blond, the women's face was sad. “Ani Hoffman. That dear girl; how sad.” She stated with a shake of her head.
Liesl felt a wave of grief spread over her. Ani, her friend since childhood, was dead. Feeling the hot tears splattering their way down her cheek, Liesl wiped them away. What was it Ani had said for her to do if she died in this place? Then Liesl remembered. Closing her eyes, Liesl swallowed her tears. “Lord. Thank you for taking Ani away from her pain and allowing her to be where she's always longed to be. Give me the strength to accept this.” She whispered the prayer Ani had told her.
At that moment, the girl almost felt Ani's presence, as if her friend was saying a final good-bye. She almost felt the whispered comfort, “I'm home, Liesl.” Lying back down, Liesl turned to see the wet face of Laurel.
“Don't worry, Laurel. She's much happier now.” Liesl whispered in her sisters ear. Then she wrapped her arm around her sister and hummed softly. A simple, but familiar old song their mother used to sing. When Laurel had finally dozed off, Liesl lay, staring straight ahead. It was then that she began to weep softly. Not for Ani, but for the lost years of their lives. The years of Laurel's childhood she had to spend in this place. She wept for her parents, her siblings, and for the years before her capture. So much pain and suffering for no good reason.
Chapter 4
Even though Ani was gone, her presence lingered in the barracks and her memory was honored by the many women she had touched. Liesl had told Lan of the death, at which Lan just shook his head sadly, but with an accepting air. He had seen enough death for it to be no surprise anymore.
A week after Ani's death, Liesl was talking with Lan. He was telling her of some of the underground work he and five other were doing. “Lan. Isn't that dangerous? What if you're caught?” Liesl asked in a worried voice.
Lan shook his head. “We're extremely careful about it, so I doubt we'll be caught. If I'm going to be stuck in this place I might as well do some good for our side.” He stated firmly, a spark coming to his eyes.
Liesl just nodded her agreement and sighed. “Laurel can't remember what Mum looks like.” She said suddenly.
Lan's head jerked up. “What?” He questioned in surprise.
Liesl just gave him a sad smile. “It's been three years since she's seen her. She was only seven.” She reasoned. As much as it hurt her to admit, the memories of her parents were fading. They weren't as bright and vivid as they were even last year. She knew she wouldn't recognize Lucy, who was only a baby the last time she saw her.
Lan just sighed and nodded in agreement. “I suppose you're right. It just hurts, you know.” He stated, rubbing a hand over his face. Liesl thingyed her head to one side as this one gesture seem to bring back the oppressive feel of the concentration camp. She looked around her at the dreary scenery and wondered if the rest of Germany looked like this.
“What a horrible place to live with for the rest of your life.” She mused as the thoughts entered her mind. Lan raised an eyebrow.
“What?” He asked, confused by his sister's sudden musings. Liesl just shook herself. “Nothing.” She mumbled. Then her ears picked up a whistle. “Bye, Lan.” She said, smiling at him through the fence. Lan nodded and retreated his own way.
When Liesl arrived back at her barracks, she sat down next to Laurel and glanced at Ani's bed. There was another girl occupying it now, but it was still Ani's bed to Liesl.
“I couldn't live with myself.” Laurel's voice cut through Liesl's thoughts. Turning around, the older girl faced the younger.
“Hm?” Liesl asked softly, not really listening. Laurel just shrugged.
“If I were one of the guards. I couldn't live with myself after all of this. Think about how horrible that would be.” The young girl just shook her head. Liesl nodded then and put her arm around Laurel.
“That's why we can't judge them too harshly. Their life in all respects is far worse than ours..... or at least that's what Ani always said.” Liesl told her sister, a sad smile on her face. Laurel curled to Liesl's side and yawned, signaling bedtime.
The next day, Liesl was working in the trenches, doing work she didn't understand, but was obviously important to the Germans. She felt something being pushed into her hand as she let it hang loose for a minute. In the corner of her eye, she saw a man stick something in said hand. He shook his head at her, signaling for her to read it later. In one smooth movement, she shoved the piece of paper into her pocket.
When it was time to get a drink of water, Liesl pulled the paper out quickly. It was dirty and torn, like someone had stolen it. It was a letter from Lan. Sitting down where nobody could see her, Liesl read the small letter.
Liesl. They found out; don't know how. Me and the other boys are being taken out to the firing squad today. If you hear a gunshot, think of me. I love you and Laurel more than anything. Give my love to the family and never let Laurel forget her brother. Remember. Even if you can't hear my voice, I'll be right beside you.
Without realizing it, Liesl dropped the paper. Tears started to stream down her face and she could feel her hands shake. Her whole world came crashing down on her. One of the sources her world revolved around was gone. Shot by a German officer. Buried with those nameless millions of others that were buried every day. From the other side of the fence, she heard gunshot. She put her head in her hands and tried to sob, but nothing came out, only a dull ache in her heart.
Slowly, after she recovered, she made her way back to the trenches with everyone else. However, she wasn't with everyone else. A part of her had died with Lan. She felt like half of a puzzle, waiting to be finished.
Telling Laurel was almost as hard as hearing the gunshot. The small girl's eyes filled with tears and she sobbed into Liesl's dress until she couldn't sob anymore. All of Ani's views on being sympathetic to their captors seemed a feat impossible to perform. Liesl just couldn't willingly think good thoughts about the people that had killed her brother and let her best friend die.
“Don't be bitter.” She whispered, a phrase her mother had often told her. Suddenly, she remembered something else her mother had told her; “Hate kills the heart, even broken ones.”
Nodding her head, Liesl resolved not to hate. She couldn't forgive now, maybe never, but she wouldn't hate. She sat there and cradled Laurel, realizing that love was stronger. It was only her love for her brother that made her feel like this, not hate for his killers. It was love for her sister and her family that kept her going everyday. It would be love that would guide her from now on and then maybe, just maybe, she would get through this.
Chapter 5
Somehow, Liesl made it through the next month. Some days she felt like she just wanted to lie down and never get up, then she'd be happy. However, she knew she couldn't leave Laurel all alone, so she got up every morning and faced the freezing and endless roll calls. When would this war be over!
While Liesl and Laurel were standing in line for roll call one morning, a voice came over the loudspeaker.
“Amherst, Liesl. Amherst, Laurel.”
The two girls looked at each other before quickly moving forward. They stood to one side as the rest of the roll call was performed. After it was over, an officer signaled for the sisters to follow her. Mutely, Liesl led Laurel along behind the guard until they reached a line of women. Up ahead, there was a table with an officer sitting down. He seemed to be stamping papers and saying something. When it come to her turn, Laurel stood, waiting to see what would happen.
Stamping a piece of paper, the guard uttered one word. “Entlassen!”
Liesl's eyes widened. She was free? Was this some cruel joke? She didn't have time to ponder this anymore, for she was shoved forward while Laurel got her papers stamped with the same uttered word. Looking down, Liesl read the words on the paper. Their names, date of birth, and big black letters at the top: CERTIFICATE OF DISCHARGE. Hardly believing her eyes, Liesl felt of small wave of relief flood over her. She and Laurel were free.
They passed the physical exam – realizing how healthy they were, compared to the others – and were sent to another building. There they saw rows of clothes waiting for the released prisoners. Doing as she was instructed, Liesl picked up a pair of clean underwear, and dress, shoes, a thick coat, and a hat. She stepped into the showers and bathed herself, vigorously scrubbing the feel of the camp off of her skin.
After changing into the new clothes, Liesl felt like another person. So unlike the girl who had come into the building, but with that girl still hanging off of her. She saw Laurel emerge from another closet and almost gasped at the picture the young girl made. So sweet and pretty in her new outfit. Grabbing the little girl's hand, Liesl followed a guards' orders and walked out of the building. She watched as the gates were opened and they were allowed to walk out of the horrible nightmare they had lived in for the past three years.
For the first fifteen minutes of freedom, Liesl didn't know what to do. Laurel pulled on Liesl's hand.
“Hadn't we better get some food and find a place to stay for the night?” She suggested, not understanding her sister's delay of plan.
Nodding, Liesl gulped down her shock. “Ye—yes. Then we need to find a way to America. To Massachusetts.” She stated firmly, life suddenly hitting her in the face before she knew it.
Since Liesl and Laurel both had been given tickets for food and lodging, they were able to find commendations for the night. As she sat on the bed, Liesl marveled at the sudden change in her life. It was wonderful, but how were they going to get to America? With a start, she remembered a name Lan had dropped in his conversations about the underground work. There was a man loyal to the allies who transported people out of Germany to America and England. Lan had told her that if she ever got out, to go to this man and he would get her to their family.
Resolving to do this first thing the next morning, the girl feel asleep next to her sister, worn out from their first day of freedom.
The next day, after a small breakfast of bread and water, the two Dawkins found the man – Fritz Rehn. Liesl told him everything about Lan and their situation, and finally bargained her and Laurel's way onto his shipment heading toward America. She understood this was dangerous, but she knew she had to get herself and Laurel to their parents.
Apparently, Liesl had gotten to to Fritz Rehn just in time, for the ship was leaving in a half hour. Cramming themselves onto the boat, the two girls readied themselves for the long journey ahead, sure that it wouldn't be as bad as what they had been through.
Liesl sat on the hard bed, looking at her hands. The tattered gloves showed work-worn fingers, chilled to the bone. Pulling her thread-bare coat more tightly around her small frame, the blond sighed and looked around the barracks. There were many other women here, all cold and miserable. Turning her head, Liesl's blue eyes met hazel ones. They also met the small smile of her friend, Ani Hoffman.
“Chin up, Lies.” Ani stated in a horse voice. Ani had caught a slight cold earlier that winter, but due to insufficient medical attention, it had grown steadily worse. Even though she was worse off than Liesl, the brown haired girl still managed to keep heart.
Liesl nodded and lifted her chin up. She immediately lowered it to keep her neck warmer. “I guess it's just a rule here in these concentration camps to keep the prisoners as cold as humanly possible.” She stated bitterly.
“They just don't care. And they don't have the funds; using it all on the war.” Ani answered with her simple logic. Liesl leaned back against the cold wall, resting her aching back. Both girls came to a silent agreement that talking used up energy that Ani didn't have, so they sat in friendly silence. Liesl's thoughts strayed to her family.
Laurel was sitting on the other bed, huddled up. Leslee, her husband, and Lucy were safe in America as far as Liesl knew, however, she had no clue what happened to her parents. She had been separated from them when they had been caught. Liesl prayed they weren't dead, but she had no guarantees. Then, the girl's thoughts strayed to her twin brother. Last she had seen he had been taken to another camp with other men. He had been pretty badly beaten up when he had been taken off, and Liesl didn't know if he had been able to make it through the horrible conditions they were forced to live in.
“Oh, please, Lord. Let Lan be alive and well.” She prayed silently. Lan was her companion, her playmate, and her brother. She didn't know what she would do if he was dead. All Liesl could think about was the last glimpse she had had of his bruised face (his punishment for resisting the guards) looking back at her, his eyes sending encouragement to his sister.
A small tear rolled down the blond's face at the thought. Laurel seemed to have sensed her sister's sadness, because the young girl had curled up next to Liesl. Small hands stole around the older girl's neck as Laurel rested her head on Liesl's shoulders. “Don't worry, Lies. I'm sure Lan's fine.” She whispered.
Liesl smiled a bit and hugged her sister. “I hope so, Laurie.” She whispered back. At that moment, the door was flung open and a guard stood at the door. “Roll call. Everybody out.” The command was uttered in a harsh, clipping voice.
Liesl sighed and scrambled off the bed, along with Laurel. Turning around, she helped Ani off the bed and walked toward the door. “Chin up.” Ani whispered as they went to face the cold wind of the outside during the endless roll call.
Chapter 2
Liesl woke the next morning to the sound of a whistle blowing and voices commanding. Morning roll call. She jumped off of the bed she shared with eight other women, then helped Laurel down. Looking beside her, she saw Ani's feeble form getting out of bed.
“Here, Ani. Let me help you.” She offered, putting her arm under the sick girl's arms in order to help Ani up. “I think you need to go and see the doctor's station, An. You're burning up.” She added, feeling the feverish head of her friend.
“I went yesterday, but my fever's only 102. It has to be 104 to be admitted into the station.” Ani said weakly, her thin body suddenly wracked with a horse cough. Liesl had only a brief moment to look worriedly at Ani before they were pushed along outside. On her way out, Liesl grabbed Laurel's hand, making sure her little sister stayed with her.
After roll-call, the three girls rushed back to the barracks to get ready for a day of working. While making sure Laurel was as warm as she could be, Liesl cast a glance at Ani. “You know, I wouldn't be surprised if that fever didn't go up and you can get some medical attention.” She stated, trying to be cheerful.
Ani looked up at her friend with pain filled eyes. “Liesl. You and I both know I'm not going to last in this place. You're strong, you can take it. But I just can't.” She said with bluntness that hurt Liesl's heart to hear.
“No, Ani. You're going to make it. We all are.” She argued, stubbornly refusing to believe the blatant truth of the situation.
Ani just gave Liesl a small smile. “I'm not afraid to go, Liesl. It'll almost be a relief. I just want to do as much good for these people while I'm still here.” She stated, standing up and facing Liesl. “Now. We've got work to do.”
Liesl just stared at Ani as the girl made her way slowly to the door. She stood there for a minute before Laurel tugged on her sleeve. “You know. I think I saw a truck come and unload more prisoners at the men's part of the camp.” The small girl told Liesl. “And since I was close to the fence, I saw the men get out. I think I saw Lan.” There was a sparkle in the blue eyes as these words were spoken.
Liesl looked down at her sister in surprise. “Are you sure?” She asked, voice doubting but heart soaring. If Lan was here, even across the fence, everything would be all right. Laurel nodded and turned toward the door. “While you're out working, maybe you can catch a glimpse of him. You do work with the men when you're digging.” The younger girl said.
As Liesl shoveled and dug in the dirt outside the camp, her thoughts kept straying to her brother. Just to see that tall frame, the messy brown hair and the sparkling eyes would be like heaven. Then Liesl thought about what he had probably been through. Most likely he was unhealthily thin and dull eyed; like how she was by now. He wouldn't be the same Lan in looks, but she hoped he was the same Lan in spirit.
The work day seem to go faster as the blond thought about her brother. When she was finishing up her work, she stole a glance around the camp before bolting over to the fence and peering through the barbed wire. “Please Lord. Just one glance.” She prayed, straining her eyes for any sight of her brother. Suddenly, a man walked right in front of where Liesl was standing. It was Lan. Liesl couldn't contain herself anymore.
“Lan!” She whispered-yelled. Turning around, the man just stood for a minute, before her started moving forward.
“Liesl?” A soft, but strong voice answered back As the voice spoke, a thin and work-worn hand stole through the fence and grasped her own. Liesl could have cried, sitting there and holding her brother's hand. “How're you holding up?” Lan asked in a whisper.
“Like you would expect. Laurel too.” Liesl whispered, taking in Lan's appearance. While he still had brown hair, it was cropped close. His face looked haggard and his eyes held no sparkle. There was a hint of happiness as he spoke to his sister, but Liesl could tell that it was hardly a normal fixture on his face.
Lan just sat for a minute, a small smile hovering on his pale lips. “I.... Oh, god, Liesl. You don't know how worried I've been...” He was cut off my a shrill whistle sounding, calling for prisoners to report back to barracks. “I'll talk to you later. Right here.” He said hastily. Liesl nodded and squeezed his hand before getting up also. She turned around and ran toward her barracks, joyful in the news she had to tell Laurel.
Chapter 3
Two weeks went by and Liesl was happier than she had been in her whole imprisonment. She and Laurel both had met with Lan for brief periods at a time. The siblings had caught up on each other and provided more encouragement than any of them had had in a long time. The girl had stopped noticing the difference in Lan's appearance and saw him as the old Lan – full of spirit and cheekiness.
Lan had some how found out that their parents had made it to America and were living with their aunt and uncle. This news had been wonderful for Liesl and Laurel. They now knew their where their whole family was. Lan also thought that Germany must be desperate in the war, because they were taking such puny workers to make ammunition. Plus, the German camps were filling up, meaning that the allies must be taking back some of the surrounding countries. Liesl was amazed at the amount of things Lan knew, but she took his word, since he seemed to somehow know.
It was after one of these meetings between Liesl and Lan that Liesl saw Laurel running to meet her.
“Liesl!” The small girl cried, catching her sister's hand. “Ani collapsed as she was working today and has been taken to the infirmary.” All of this information was relayed in an extremely fast voice.
“That means she'll finally get some medical attention.” Liesl said with a sigh of relief. Maybe Ani had a chance to get better. A chance to keep on spreading her warm presence through the barracks and keep on giving encouragement and hope to the hopeless women around her. Liesl finally felt like things were getting better now. She smiled at Laurel. “Finally.” She whispered.
Visitors were not allowed in the infirmary, so Liesl simply had to wait for any news of Ani's health. However, Liesl was able to talk one of the women from the barracks who had to relay objects to the infirmary to try and find word of Ani's health. When the women arrived back, Liesl found out that Ani had not yet received any medical attention, though she had been in there for a week. Sighing, Liesl prayed that Ani would received treatment soon.
One night, a pounding came on the door of the bedroom. One of the women opened it and a guard addressed her, demanding belongings. The women turned around to collect the articles, since the guards never came into the bedding rooms-- 'That place is filled with fleas!' a guard had once said in disgust.
Liesl sat up and looked at the belongings being gathered up. Ani's. Fear gripped the girl's heart. “Did someone die?” She whispered to the women.
Looking up at the blond, the women's face was sad. “Ani Hoffman. That dear girl; how sad.” She stated with a shake of her head.
Liesl felt a wave of grief spread over her. Ani, her friend since childhood, was dead. Feeling the hot tears splattering their way down her cheek, Liesl wiped them away. What was it Ani had said for her to do if she died in this place? Then Liesl remembered. Closing her eyes, Liesl swallowed her tears. “Lord. Thank you for taking Ani away from her pain and allowing her to be where she's always longed to be. Give me the strength to accept this.” She whispered the prayer Ani had told her.
At that moment, the girl almost felt Ani's presence, as if her friend was saying a final good-bye. She almost felt the whispered comfort, “I'm home, Liesl.” Lying back down, Liesl turned to see the wet face of Laurel.
“Don't worry, Laurel. She's much happier now.” Liesl whispered in her sisters ear. Then she wrapped her arm around her sister and hummed softly. A simple, but familiar old song their mother used to sing. When Laurel had finally dozed off, Liesl lay, staring straight ahead. It was then that she began to weep softly. Not for Ani, but for the lost years of their lives. The years of Laurel's childhood she had to spend in this place. She wept for her parents, her siblings, and for the years before her capture. So much pain and suffering for no good reason.
Chapter 4
Even though Ani was gone, her presence lingered in the barracks and her memory was honored by the many women she had touched. Liesl had told Lan of the death, at which Lan just shook his head sadly, but with an accepting air. He had seen enough death for it to be no surprise anymore.
A week after Ani's death, Liesl was talking with Lan. He was telling her of some of the underground work he and five other were doing. “Lan. Isn't that dangerous? What if you're caught?” Liesl asked in a worried voice.
Lan shook his head. “We're extremely careful about it, so I doubt we'll be caught. If I'm going to be stuck in this place I might as well do some good for our side.” He stated firmly, a spark coming to his eyes.
Liesl just nodded her agreement and sighed. “Laurel can't remember what Mum looks like.” She said suddenly.
Lan's head jerked up. “What?” He questioned in surprise.
Liesl just gave him a sad smile. “It's been three years since she's seen her. She was only seven.” She reasoned. As much as it hurt her to admit, the memories of her parents were fading. They weren't as bright and vivid as they were even last year. She knew she wouldn't recognize Lucy, who was only a baby the last time she saw her.
Lan just sighed and nodded in agreement. “I suppose you're right. It just hurts, you know.” He stated, rubbing a hand over his face. Liesl thingyed her head to one side as this one gesture seem to bring back the oppressive feel of the concentration camp. She looked around her at the dreary scenery and wondered if the rest of Germany looked like this.
“What a horrible place to live with for the rest of your life.” She mused as the thoughts entered her mind. Lan raised an eyebrow.
“What?” He asked, confused by his sister's sudden musings. Liesl just shook herself. “Nothing.” She mumbled. Then her ears picked up a whistle. “Bye, Lan.” She said, smiling at him through the fence. Lan nodded and retreated his own way.
When Liesl arrived back at her barracks, she sat down next to Laurel and glanced at Ani's bed. There was another girl occupying it now, but it was still Ani's bed to Liesl.
“I couldn't live with myself.” Laurel's voice cut through Liesl's thoughts. Turning around, the older girl faced the younger.
“Hm?” Liesl asked softly, not really listening. Laurel just shrugged.
“If I were one of the guards. I couldn't live with myself after all of this. Think about how horrible that would be.” The young girl just shook her head. Liesl nodded then and put her arm around Laurel.
“That's why we can't judge them too harshly. Their life in all respects is far worse than ours..... or at least that's what Ani always said.” Liesl told her sister, a sad smile on her face. Laurel curled to Liesl's side and yawned, signaling bedtime.
The next day, Liesl was working in the trenches, doing work she didn't understand, but was obviously important to the Germans. She felt something being pushed into her hand as she let it hang loose for a minute. In the corner of her eye, she saw a man stick something in said hand. He shook his head at her, signaling for her to read it later. In one smooth movement, she shoved the piece of paper into her pocket.
When it was time to get a drink of water, Liesl pulled the paper out quickly. It was dirty and torn, like someone had stolen it. It was a letter from Lan. Sitting down where nobody could see her, Liesl read the small letter.
Liesl. They found out; don't know how. Me and the other boys are being taken out to the firing squad today. If you hear a gunshot, think of me. I love you and Laurel more than anything. Give my love to the family and never let Laurel forget her brother. Remember. Even if you can't hear my voice, I'll be right beside you.
Without realizing it, Liesl dropped the paper. Tears started to stream down her face and she could feel her hands shake. Her whole world came crashing down on her. One of the sources her world revolved around was gone. Shot by a German officer. Buried with those nameless millions of others that were buried every day. From the other side of the fence, she heard gunshot. She put her head in her hands and tried to sob, but nothing came out, only a dull ache in her heart.
Slowly, after she recovered, she made her way back to the trenches with everyone else. However, she wasn't with everyone else. A part of her had died with Lan. She felt like half of a puzzle, waiting to be finished.
Telling Laurel was almost as hard as hearing the gunshot. The small girl's eyes filled with tears and she sobbed into Liesl's dress until she couldn't sob anymore. All of Ani's views on being sympathetic to their captors seemed a feat impossible to perform. Liesl just couldn't willingly think good thoughts about the people that had killed her brother and let her best friend die.
“Don't be bitter.” She whispered, a phrase her mother had often told her. Suddenly, she remembered something else her mother had told her; “Hate kills the heart, even broken ones.”
Nodding her head, Liesl resolved not to hate. She couldn't forgive now, maybe never, but she wouldn't hate. She sat there and cradled Laurel, realizing that love was stronger. It was only her love for her brother that made her feel like this, not hate for his killers. It was love for her sister and her family that kept her going everyday. It would be love that would guide her from now on and then maybe, just maybe, she would get through this.
Chapter 5
Somehow, Liesl made it through the next month. Some days she felt like she just wanted to lie down and never get up, then she'd be happy. However, she knew she couldn't leave Laurel all alone, so she got up every morning and faced the freezing and endless roll calls. When would this war be over!
While Liesl and Laurel were standing in line for roll call one morning, a voice came over the loudspeaker.
“Amherst, Liesl. Amherst, Laurel.”
The two girls looked at each other before quickly moving forward. They stood to one side as the rest of the roll call was performed. After it was over, an officer signaled for the sisters to follow her. Mutely, Liesl led Laurel along behind the guard until they reached a line of women. Up ahead, there was a table with an officer sitting down. He seemed to be stamping papers and saying something. When it come to her turn, Laurel stood, waiting to see what would happen.
Stamping a piece of paper, the guard uttered one word. “Entlassen!”
Liesl's eyes widened. She was free? Was this some cruel joke? She didn't have time to ponder this anymore, for she was shoved forward while Laurel got her papers stamped with the same uttered word. Looking down, Liesl read the words on the paper. Their names, date of birth, and big black letters at the top: CERTIFICATE OF DISCHARGE. Hardly believing her eyes, Liesl felt of small wave of relief flood over her. She and Laurel were free.
They passed the physical exam – realizing how healthy they were, compared to the others – and were sent to another building. There they saw rows of clothes waiting for the released prisoners. Doing as she was instructed, Liesl picked up a pair of clean underwear, and dress, shoes, a thick coat, and a hat. She stepped into the showers and bathed herself, vigorously scrubbing the feel of the camp off of her skin.
After changing into the new clothes, Liesl felt like another person. So unlike the girl who had come into the building, but with that girl still hanging off of her. She saw Laurel emerge from another closet and almost gasped at the picture the young girl made. So sweet and pretty in her new outfit. Grabbing the little girl's hand, Liesl followed a guards' orders and walked out of the building. She watched as the gates were opened and they were allowed to walk out of the horrible nightmare they had lived in for the past three years.
For the first fifteen minutes of freedom, Liesl didn't know what to do. Laurel pulled on Liesl's hand.
“Hadn't we better get some food and find a place to stay for the night?” She suggested, not understanding her sister's delay of plan.
Nodding, Liesl gulped down her shock. “Ye—yes. Then we need to find a way to America. To Massachusetts.” She stated firmly, life suddenly hitting her in the face before she knew it.
Since Liesl and Laurel both had been given tickets for food and lodging, they were able to find commendations for the night. As she sat on the bed, Liesl marveled at the sudden change in her life. It was wonderful, but how were they going to get to America? With a start, she remembered a name Lan had dropped in his conversations about the underground work. There was a man loyal to the allies who transported people out of Germany to America and England. Lan had told her that if she ever got out, to go to this man and he would get her to their family.
Resolving to do this first thing the next morning, the girl feel asleep next to her sister, worn out from their first day of freedom.
The next day, after a small breakfast of bread and water, the two Dawkins found the man – Fritz Rehn. Liesl told him everything about Lan and their situation, and finally bargained her and Laurel's way onto his shipment heading toward America. She understood this was dangerous, but she knew she had to get herself and Laurel to their parents.
Apparently, Liesl had gotten to to Fritz Rehn just in time, for the ship was leaving in a half hour. Cramming themselves onto the boat, the two girls readied themselves for the long journey ahead, sure that it wouldn't be as bad as what they had been through.
