Originating from a single species that thrived in ancient times, Xenowyrms have become an incredibly diverse breed whose appearances vary depending on their habitats. Each Xenowyrm subspecies is heavily reliant on the power of different types of mana, making them powerful magic users. Umbras are a solitary and generally unwelcoming subspecies found in the deepest and darkest recesses of the jungle. This highly intelligent and cunning wyrm has little fondness for intruders and those seeking them either for their hoarded wisdom or gleaming, crystalline scales. They are content to leave travelers alone, but are not above bringing a swift and harsh end to those that disturb their peace.

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.

Hoshi makes his home in a small glen hidden within a dense jungle grove, thick with overgrown vegetation and towering trees. Over the years, he's crafted dozens of magical deterrents to keep trespassers away, weaving mana crystals and liquid mana into the plants themselves so they will project shadows and illusions per Hoshi's bidding. Travelers who stumble into the grove find themselves disoriented, and eventually they walk straight out of the area without ever finding the center. Hoshi himself has no trouble finding his way home after a day of hunting or foraging, and takes a certain satisfaction in seeing his shadowy defenses writhe in place as he passes, seemingly welcoming him back.