Character Analysis
Even though Ani lies to the forest workers about her real identity, they come running when she needs them. Conrad, Razo, and a whole gaggle of workers have her back when it really counts—and though they might not have seen her when she was all decked out in her royal digs, they readily believe that she's the real princess.
Why? Because she's their friend, of course. This is a fiercely loyal bunch, and they stick together. So unlike the royal guards who double-cross the princess even though they know she's the real deal, the forest workers risk their own necks to help Ani—without any proof of her royal heritage. Not only is this pretty awesome of them, but it makes their allegiance to their friends undeniable.
Conrad might have his squabbles with Ani at first, and he definitely gets jealous of her success, but when it counts, he risks his life for her by going with her to the palace. And when he does, he—like his fellow forest workers—makes it clear that though the royals are in positions of power, they aren't the only powerful presences around.