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.

Josiane's cave is located in a temperate region of hills, which have a wide river that often floods in winter. Unlike many caves, it is formed by a slab of rock, which was tunneled underneath to make a cavity. Josiane keeps spices, cheeses, vegetables, and meats in a kind of larder, which is situated over a frigid spring to keep the food from spoiling. With her delicate tendrils, she manipulates a giant, cast-iron stove, which holds a large pot for stew and goulash. By trading with humans for a kind of black rock that makes long-lasting heat when burned, Josiane manages to cook her own food, which is renowned by humans and dragons alike. In exchange for the rocks, the dragon gives them gold and silver "collected" from ancient ruins and other dragon hoards (especially males who have been graced with her company).