It is his dragon. He is their kobold. That connection was made at a level below language. Below intelligence. His piddly little soul was bound in service to its natural master the instant the dragon touched down and decided "here." But that pesky higher brain resists yet still

Utopian bliss awaits him in submission and service His dignity and pride is a hell of its own making. Freedom is a cage. He needs to learn. But his master is kind enough to let the runaway creep back to his side of his own accord. When he's ready.