...
The vast castle was thoroughly searched, a process that took several hours.
There were plenty of women found, with blondes among them; in the banquet hall alone, two blonde noblewomen were lying there, but no one could confirm if any of them was the Princess.
Max pinched a few golden strands, comparing them one by one, but eventually shook his head and walked aside to light a cigarette and slowly smoke it.
Everyone was tired.
And somewhat disheartened.
After all the effort, they had nothing to show for it but more fatigue.
The only woman in the team stood up, hesitantly spoke, "I... I need to go, for a moment."
The men looked up, some with a teasing glance, others impatient, considering women a nuisance, unlike men who could just find a corner and zip down.
Max said, "Don't go too far."
"Can someone...," she bit her lip, looking nervous, "can someone please accompany me... I'm scared on my own."
But now was not the time for tenderness.
