Perhaps among the most venerated of dragon breeds is the Zyumorph, a breed whose selfless heroism and strong moral compass are nearly unparalleled by other dragons. Zyumorphs have an innate urge to fend off wrongdoing, and as such, are often sought after in times of peril. Although they are independently quite capable fighters, it is said that their true might is not unlocked until all six Zyumorphs are brought together in times of great duress.

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.

When Atlas was young, he said many things that Tenderheart did not understand; things that scared her. Many times, they would have the same conversations over and over again.

He would say, "Mama," and Tenderheart would nod. Concealed worry would cross her face. She knew what was coming next. "I know you say I don't know, but I do. I know my real birth giver is dead." And then Tenderheart would ask him how he knew that. "My parents talk to me. Tell me that I can bring 'em back one day. Tell me that I just gotta find my pieces." Tenderheart would ask him about these pieces. Atlas would sigh."'M broken, Mama. One day, you'll find others who are broken like me. And you'll send them to me. And then I can be fixed."

Soon enough, Atlas would wake Tenderheart in the middle of the night, saying that he had to leave "right now." He'd tell her that she'd find his pieces, and when she did, all she had to do was tell them was that he was waiting for them. Tenderheart never saw Atlas again.