Go to Laurel Dun, explain your mission

As much as you want to court that specific type of danger, you **** yourself not to risk dealing with an unvetted man, especially if it puts you in a potentially compromising position without your weapon.

You seek out the merchant lady and manage to pull her aside for a private conversation in the marketplace. She's a stunning woman, easy to spot in any crowd. Her trademark raven hair spilling down her back to her waist stands out where most are fairer and wear their hair much shorter.

She looks at your choice of clothing questioningly, but says nothing until you are alone. "Ah, yes. I know you. You're that Knight girl who always seems distracted and squirmy, like you need something you're not getting." Then, leaning in a little closer to whisper, she adds, "I can help you get it, whatever it is. Fair prices, very discreet. I won't tell your friends."

You blush slightly, realizing your frequent fantasies may not have been so subtle, and trying to imagine how you'd actually respond to that offer. "Yes... Well. I am on an urgent mission to investigate the string of disappearances in the area of City M, but I need to keep a low profile. I know you are traveling in that direction today. Please let me accompany you as a hired guard to keep my affiliation with the Order a secret."

She tilts her head, suppressing a small smile. "You? All by yourself? My, this must be serious." She thinks for a moment. "Well, you are of course welcome to guard my carriage as far as the city. But I will require payment. It's my standard arrangement with the Order for any favors."

You groan. Of course it would be. Merchants can't ever do anything for free. "I don't have any money now. Would you accept payment later?"

She nods. "Yes, I suppose. Now if you'll excuse me I have to meet with a client and then I will be leaving. Don't wander off; my schedule will not be changed for you."