"Because someone has to," Gwendell says cryptically, helping the soldier pull a chest from within the elm tree. I wonder what else these squirrels have stashed therein, you marvel as they open the chest to reveal bits of costume. She gives a nod to the courtier, who comes over to you as she takes off her outer garb.
"The Bardbrood's a society, I suppose you'd say, for artists who don't mind a spot of trouble," she winks. "I'm sure you ken that writing the wrong pamphlet or staging the wrong play can send you to the gallows, if you're taking swipes at powers-that-be all alone. The Bardbrood helps the work get out and the artists stay safe and secret."
"Our Crown Princess here is ever so keen on secrecy, you can tell," the soldier joshes her.
The soldier by this time has disrobed to his bare chest and trousers, and is reaching for a simple tunic. The one-time courtier is in a thin shift and hose and accepts a blouse that Gwendell tosses her.