Bright-Breasted Wyverns are a breed of dragon easily recognized by their bright red markings. They are a small breed, only the size of a full-grown man. However, they have developed poisonous barbs on their feet to make up for their size. Their coloration is used to warn off potential predators of the danger, and is also used to attract mates. They are very social, and can often be seen preening in large groups.

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.

Poisonous Defender, as the only male Bright-Breasted Wyvern in the cave, spends a lot of time copping flak over the behaviour of Poisonous Queen. The general feeling is that he should be able to control her. As it happens he doesn't much like her either, but does his best to keep the peace, as he loves parties and hates to find himself excluded in case she tags along behind him. So he tries to keep her happy by bringing her tasty morsels of fish, as she isn't much good at fishing and loves to chew on the heads.

He prefers small rodents, himself, and keeps a stash of them in the corner where she won't see them. And he will never admit to her that the dragon he lusts after is Lady Aferdita. He knows she doesn't even notice him—but he worships her anyway.