It was previously believed that purple dragons were exclusively female, but this is not the case. Recent environmental shifts have revealed the existence of both genders of this breed. Female behavior is well known; they are primarily herbivores but will eat meat during mating season. On the other hand, very little is known about the behavior and habits of male purple dragons.

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.

Beruriah is a Jewish dragon (at least, as much as her religious affiliation can be explained to humans—dragons' religious beliefs are sometimes very similar and sometimes worlds apart from humans'), and a noted Torah scholar possessed of great wisdom. She chose her human name in honor of the human scholar and theologian Beruriah, daughter of R. Hananiah ben Teradion and wife of R. Meier. The dragon Beruriah, like the human, is noted for compassion, high intelligence, and devout piety. While she and Theologia Julian often disagree on religious matters, they are in agreement on the key values of love, trust, and faith, and are good friends who enjoy a lively discussion. Like Julian, she is respected and loved throughout the clan, and often consulted on matters of importance.