Pyralspite dragons are small, swift dragons that can breathe an intensely hot flame. They get their name from their resemblance to and affinity for garnets of the pyralspite family—they hoard such gems, preferring garnets that match their variant, and can tell the type of garnet from how it tastes. The orange variant is called Spessartine. These Pyralspites are more fun-loving and mellow than others, and are optimistic as a whole. Their preferred habitat is coastal areas.

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.

Z'kara is a member of the Zeta tribe, though her adventurous nature means she spends a lot of time away from the group looking for garnets. It was on one of these trips that she met her mate, Spookartine. Though intimidated at first by the Grave's expression, she was amused by his awe over the discovery of a bright orange garnet. The two began courting, and soon had children. Z'kara was unable to bring the hatchlings into the Zeta tribe with her, and so left them in Spookartine's care. (Perhaps she would not have done this if she knew a little more about Grave dragons, but Zeta tribe members often lead sheltered lives.) He takes good care of the young dragons, and brings them to see their mother frequently. Z'kara's only complaint is that the hatchlings don't seem to bathe enough—their feet often appear coated in dirt or soot. On his visits, Spookartine also brings garnets he's found on his travels. And if they have a bit of an ashy flavor... well, it's the thought that counts.