Page 412 - The Book Thief

various fast-tracked training camps, Himmel Street was swollen. Rudy was not

the samehe didnt talk. Mama was not the sameshe didnt berate. Liesel, too, was
feeling the effects. There was no desire to steal a book, no matter how much she
tried to convince herself that it would cheer her up.

After twelve days of Alex Steiners absence, Rudy decided hed had enough. He
hurried through the gate and knocked on Liesels door.

Kommst?

Ja.

She didnt care where he was going or what he was planning, but he would not be
going without her. They walked up Himmel, along Munich Street and out of
Molching altogether. It was after approximately an hour that Liesel asked the
vital question. Up till then, shed only glanced over at Rudys determined face, or
examined his stiff arms and the fisted hands in his pockets.

Where are we going?

Isnt it obvious?

She struggled to keep up. Well, to tell you the truthnot really.

Im going to find him.

Your papa?

Yes. He thought about it. Actually, no. I think Ill find the Fhrer instead.

Faster footsteps. Why?

Rudy stopped. Because I want to kill him. He even turned on the spot, to the rest
of the world. Did you hear that, you bastards? he shouted. I want to kill the
Fhrer!

They resumed walking and made it another few miles or so. That was when
Liesel felt the urge to turn around. Itll be dark soon, Rudy.