Striped River Dragons dwell in clear, deep-moving water. These dragons are playful and active, but wild individuals are very shy and tend to flee at the first sign of humans. They are excellent swimmers and can hold their breath for up to an hour, and are also capable of magic-powered flight for short distances. Their hoards usually consist of shells, smooth river stones, and freshwater pearls; Striped River Dragons often trade objects from their hoard and give “gifts” to dragons or people they consider to be friends. These dragons are intolerant of poor water conditions, so their presence is often an indicator of a healthy river system.

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.

No matter where she is, Riverward looks toward the nearest river. Her mother says she's had this trait since she hatched. On the move, she occasionally turns her view away from wherever she's going, which sometimes gives the appearance of nervousness or makes her look suspicious. It's a useful skill while traveling, especially with buddies who are prone to getting lost or going off-route to explore. If folks want to speak with her and expect her to face them, they have to situate themselves between her and the direction she's looking.