Bright-Breasted Wyverns are a breed of dragon easily recognized by their bright red markings. They are a small breed, only the size of a full-grown man. However, they have developed poisonous barbs on their feet to make up for their size. Their coloration is used to warn off potential predators of the danger, and is also used to attract mates. They are very social, and can often be seen preening in large groups.

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.

Karuku is somewhat paranoid, and is convinced that every time she leaves the clan caves, she will be attacked by roaming predators. To keep herself reassured, she practices using the poisonous barbs on her feet, scratching out targets on trees and working on her speed and stamina. Some of the hatchlings find her worrying silly, but none of them are willing to try to test the results of Karuku's training.