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.

Saphira is well respected within her Cave for not only being able to use magic, but for being able to transfer her knowledge to younger dragons. Unlike her brother, Saphira does not have a jealous bone in her body and she loves to see her students surpass her own considerable skills in magic. Saphira is an exacting and demanding teacher and many young hatchlings are intimidated by her fierce reputation when they first come to study with her. They quickly learn, however, that if they try their best, Saphira will be fair and brutally honest with them.