The Guard looked at the Paladin, "No, Alexander, we have nothing for brigands or cut throats. I would have not let you in if I thought you were paupers, with your helmets in hand and your hands out stretched." She then looked at the rest of the group. "We have no need for mercenaries either, my guard is the strongest in the land, and while the Goblins seem to be in larger numbers then we normally handle, it doesn't mean I'm going to open the castle armory to every idiot who fancies themselves an adventurer. I was trying to be polite."

"And you," She said turning her gaze Alex, "Did you really expect for me to open up the stables to people who just walk up to the gates? You must be daft. Besides, you have a changeling of some sort with you, why not ride him." She then gave the whole party a derisive snort, as the guard came back. "Our Lady is currently indisposed, she asked for you to receive their request, and then ask them to return another day." 

"The Fair Lady will have to meet you beggars, another time. I'm sooo sorry for the inconvenience, but you see we're preparing for a siege." She then pointed at the guards hurrying too and fro getting their plate on, manning stations. "And you stay away from those goblins, or I swear I'll split you in twain, and use your innards to string up my bow."