"Perhaps. I wanted a peaceful life at one point. Now I have scars in places which I never imagined I'd get. Got some on my chest, my right leg, under my tail, and even one on my right but- well, I don't want to give away too much information, now" Mazdak explained. The dracon curled his toes, digging his claws into the soft wood of the raft at the thought. 

The ferry ride was soon over, and Mazdak snapped out of his reverie. It wasn't a pleasant thought, but it was rather distracting. "I'd give more for Hekaga if I had to, and gladly so. It wasn't always that way. Back when Ternoc's father was in charge, I'd have found the thought of sacrificing even a drop of blood to be too much. King Nicator was... terrible. His control was absolute, even as a prince operating under his father. His signature was needed for the next murder to take place, the next rape to take place, the next drug deal to take place, the next egg-smashing to take place, it all needed the signature of-!" He cut himself off, realizing that he was going on a rant. "Sorry. He really was awful." 

They began to head down the road. "I can arrange for us to get some mounts if you like. Perhaps you could use it, given that you have an issue with your foot. I-I know that you are an adult kobold, but if you'll forgive me saying so, your kind reminds dracons of our own children, in terms of size at least. I don't like seeing a child in pain, you know. I don't mean to condescend, but that is how- how it comes off to me."