The vast kingdom that the Kinly family oversaw and protected has been prosperous for a long span of time, nearly one hundred years in fact. As such, Princess Rahea knew nothing of the struggle and strife that plagued the Aldenea kingdom. The relationship between men and elf had always been one with respect and understanding. Men and elves didn't often fight and when a skirmish arose, it was usually between an irrational man who didn't hold the majority's mindset that elves were equals, not subservient.
Whenever a small but notable conflict broke out, the King and Queen were quick to approach things diplomatically. They did not wish for further arguments to sully the peace that had been established 90 years ago. So for the most part, both factions got along well and traded without any real incidents. Having a positive relationship with the elves was paramount since every year they came together to exchange eggs. It was believed that when they hatched, both the humans and elves would have contributed enough good will to ensure the dragon was not something to fear, but something to respect and admire.
There had been a few attempts at someone stealing the eggs, whether it happen within the elves' city of Ullenor, or in the kingdom's capital known as B'ylah. The attempts were never successful thankfully. The eggs were always guarded and both factions ensured there was no way for someone to pillage the egg and make a profit.
Mentally, it was taxing to protect an egg but it was a duty that was sacred and very vital to the kingdom's survival.
Princess Rahea glanced over to her left, unable to cease admiring the precious pink cherry trees that were common around the kingdom, except they strangely didn't penetrate the Ullenori Forest. Rahea, along with her mother and father, and their band of knights, were currently meandering along a dirt road. The sun was beginning to set and she had to wonder how much further they had to go. Like the elves, they had been on the road for two days, though they took more stops to allow Rahea to admire the curious scenery. While she had been out of the kingdom, it was usually for diplomatic purposes which didn't allow much free time to explore the area.
Her retainer, who acted as both a body guard and servant, had to constantly remind her that their trek was not a time to explore and drag her feet. Rahea had begged her parents to allow her to go along with them this year and they saw no reason to dissuade her since in due time she would be making the yearly journey on her own.
Rahea knew very little of the world around her and her eyes were always eager to soak up the sights.
The carriage that held the royal family came to a stop as well as the knights on horses which protected them on all four sides. "We'll stop here for the night." Her father, King Milo Kinly, said. The royal family had a few connections and were able to plan stops in small stone houses that the royal family usually rented to distant relatives. The stone cottage was furnished and the usual resident had already left earlier to give the travelers as much space and privacy as required.
The group headed inside and began to get ready for a quick rest while Rahea's retainer (along with the other two assigned to the King and Queen) began to set up the fireplace and supper. Rahea moved to her parents who were quietly discussing the next day's plan. "Will we finally get there tomorrow?" She inquired, getting anxious.
"Yes, don't worry, we'll make contact by tomorrow afternoon." Her father replied, placing a hand on her shoulder. "Now go eat and rest, we will depart in only a few hours time."
"Why so soon?" Rahea frowned.
"Your lollygagging put us a bit behind schedule, dear." Her mother pointed out. Rahea sighed, knowing she had no means to argue with the truth. She bowed her head in understanding and went back over to the fireplace, her eyes mesmerized by the dancing flames.