Gemshard Dragons are small, gregarious, expressive easterns, living in large clans high in the jungle canopy. Their bodies are covered in tiny, gem-like scales that shimmer in direct light, and each dragon has a unique pattern of markings on the forked spade of its tail. Though Gemshard Easterns cannot fly, they often leap from springy branches high into the sky on sunny days and perform acrobatic spins and twirls to entertain themselves. When the weather turns foul, they pile up together on sturdy tree limbs and interlock the forks of their tails with others to keep warm and dry.

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.

Loigas are a rare, colorful flower found only in the Deluyan Jungle, a hot, wet area based in the Dres Islands near Valkemare's equator. The loiga is most sought out for its intense flavor once the petals are dried, being described as smoky and fruity with hints of sour zest in the aftertaste. It is an incredibly rare species of plant and is mysteriously unable to grow anywhere except its natural origin, making it incredibly expensive and in high demand.

However, very few have the opportunity to obtain loigas because of Nete, a Gemshard who has taken quite a liking to the flavor of the flowers and has made it a primary sustenance in his diet. He spends much of his time searching for these bright blue beauties, and any excess he finds is often shared with the remainder of his clan.

This leaves very few loigas for humans, with an average of less than 25 mature flowers found each year. Seeing as the flowers have only three petals, they will continue to be expensive for years to come.