Waterhorse Dragons received their name due to their horse-like physique and endearing behavior. They are capable of surviving out of water, and when on land their skin secretes a gelatinous goo to retain moisture. However, their large paddle feet are better suited for swimming, and waterhorse dragons tend to move very awkwardly when on land. Waterhorses are very friendly dragons and enjoy playing with humans.

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.

River's name given to her as a tiny hatchling because of her deep love of singing.  Her voice is glorious, to be sure; it has been said that the rivers will slow their pace or the rain fall from the heavens just so that the water can listen to the beauty of her songs.  However, singing has become an almost dangerous obsession for the young dragon.  She sings ceaselessly, day and night, night and day, not stopping even to eat or sleep unless someone forces her to rest.  Her friends are deeply concerned about her, but River thinks they're overreacting.  Her songs make the world happy, make it a better place, and she has her friends to take care of her -- surely nothing could possibly go wrong.