varieties of dragons shown in the series. The first and most common are the Airlandian/Wild dragons. They have smooth-skinned, slightly serpentine bodies; long, slender necks and tails; needle-like teeth; and pterosaur-like wings on which they can walk (often in the absence of forelegs) individuals are distinguishable by colouration and head shape. The second type is a large-bodied, stocky, four-legged breed with very short necks, ridden by Fryte, Kreigo and Nocturna. The third breed, represented solely by Blackheart, has features of both previous breeds, is unusually large, and has the ability to consume lava and consequently breathe fire. All dragons are extremely intelligent and seem to understand everything said to them. They are always loyal to their riders, even when the affairs thereof do not apparently concern them. Airlandian dragons live, when not on duty, in a vast, hangarlike station consisting of nesting areas and a somewhat terraformed environment including a lake. On duty, they are exceedingly disciplined, so that under no circumstances do they abandon their riders. Riptor Rider: Z'Neth Riptor is the most powerful Arlandian dragon and is considered the dragons' leader, as evidenced by his larger nesting area, collar and crest armor. He is blue, with a nasal horn and two large crests. Riptor has a personal rivalry with Blackheart and is one of only two dragons (and the only Airlandian dragon) able to contend with him. Sky Fury Rider: Summit A green female with two brown horns. Sky Fury, called "Fury" for short, is the only female mount among the protagonists' steeds and has no hesitation in taking action uncommanded. Fury's Cub Rider: Unknown A small, green dragon born early in the series. His sire is unidentified. While still an egg, he was captured by Nocturna, sent by Dreadwing to capture dragons' eggs for a genetic experiment performed by Gangryn, with the effect that when he hatched, he was able to project a paralyzing blast. Dreadwing attempted to use this ability as a weapon, but failed when Sky Fury persuaded the hatchling to join her. A strong familial loyalty formed thereafter between Fury and her son. Wing Storm Rider: Peak A young, steel-grey dragon, having a spiky head and a long mouth fringed by what may be either points of flesh or protuberant fangs. Both Wing Storm and Peak are reckless, though "Storm" is the more cautious of the two. Blazewind Rider: Apex A white, black-maned dragon.