Shallow Water Dragons are found in tropical regions where the water is warm. They use their magic to hunt, using bubbles to capture small fish and animals. Their large, webbed feet make them excellent swimmers and they are able to move at very high speeds. Due to their bright color, these dragons are easily spotted in the lagoons where they live.

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.

Riley is as different from Nikita as possible. He's more aloof and a natural loner. He also prefers to stay in Shallow Water. He and Nikita had no real interest in each other although occasionally Nikita will get him to play with her. Riley does help Nikita by bringing her items he finds in the river or a fish she doesn't have yet. They do show some teasing affection and were mates, but no eggs were ever produce, so they are more friends instead.