Turpentine Dragons are named for the oil that covers their scales. This oil resembles turpentine in odor and is mildly toxic; it will not kill but it burns to the touch and will cause illness in anyone who ingests it. Turpentine Dragons roam in large packs, often stealing food from larger dragons, though they are able to hunt for themselves if necessary. Many other breeds consider Turpentine Dragons to be pests, so they primarily breed among themselves.

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.

Cassat enjoys lounging in the sunlight outside the cave, watching how the different colors of the leaves contrast with the still lake that is just outside. She isn't fond of the idea of stealing food, so she tries to learn how to hunt for herself. Maeyella, a resident Red dragon, was more than happy to teach her. Cassat takes to Maeyella's lessons easily, but she finds that she often reveals herself too early before the prey is ready to be caught, not to mention to odor of turpentine coming from her body.