Originating from a single species that thrived in ancient times, Xenowyrms have become an incredibly diverse breed whose appearances vary depending on their habitats. Each Xenowyrm subspecies is heavily reliant on the power of a different type of mana, making them powerful magic users. Thalassas are a unique variety of Xenowyrm in that they are the only subspecies known to dwell in marine environments. Their porous skin and slender build are perfectly suited for the aquatic terrain, but they can only survive for short periods of time on land. Powerful users of water magic, they can create large waves and alter currents with a simple thought.

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.

Until he met his first solstice dragon, Kinwek had no idea what he was missing out on. He had always thought the sea held everything he wanted, but Oarak told him stories of cold, hard water droplets that fell from the sky and decorations that outshone the stars. Kinwek is too much a creature of the sea to experience winter and its holidays the way Oarak does, but has created his own solstice celebration. Palm fronds and driftwood make a decent tree, and the oceans have no shortage of beautiful shells or glittering sand to serve as decorations.