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.

Dickcissel watches from the aged cedar, whose highest, thickest branch is his favorite perch, as the dragons, humans and animals pass below him. Concealed in the tree, none can see his shimmering scales, which glow like solar energy. None can see them except the observant. Only the people who take full advantage of life may see his beauty; only those who wish to learn about the universe around them may see his magnificence; only those who treat nature with respect may see his greatness.