It was previously believed that purple dragons were exclusively female, but this is not the case. Recent environmental shifts have revealed the existence of both genders of this breed. Female behavior is well known; they are primarily herbivores but will eat meat during mating season. On the other hand, very little is known about the behavior and habits of male purple dragons.

Dragons are highly-intelligent reptilian creatures that—from a human perspective, at least—appear to live forever. Many different varieties of dragon exist, each with their own unique qualities, habitats, and behavior. Adolescence in dragons is usually marked by the growth of a hatchling’s wings, although not all breeds of dragons grow wings and some breeds have other traits that indicate the beginning of maturation. In Galsreim, dragons and humans coexist peacefully.

Illum is sweet, kind, and to all appearances not overly bright.  Appearances can be deceptive, though, and Illum is no less intelligent than any of his fellow dragons.  Fangrock Weyr is known for its cutthroat competitiveness, though, and kind-heartedness is seen as a fatal flaw well worth exploiting.  Illum keeps his true self hidden so the other dragons won't see him as any sort of threat, and only Dobor has penetrated his disguise.  The spitfire dragon is no danger to him, though, and Illum now has a loyal bodyguard.