The guard seemed to let out a sigh of relief.  Lady ... Lady Isabella?  He wasn't exactly sure of the name, but a glance towards the horizon made him relax a bit more as he decided he had time to make his decision.  And besides, they had a female leading this small party.  That made their chances of being involved in anything too nefarious less likely.  He knocked on the door again - it was rather obvious this was some sort of code - and turned back towards the group.  [b]"I haven't heard of this Lady Isabella - but if you aren't from around here I'd advise getting her right now.  Our terms are negotiable.  The storm's terms aren't."[/b]  Truthfully it would be bad form to guarantee one safety within the castle before at least seeing them.  [b]"Typically we request that you hand over your arms before entry for obvious reasons however.  They will be returned when you leave."[/b]  The man spoke as if this was a more expected part of the conversation.