Dorsal Dragons are so named because they have large fins along their backs that can be raised and lowered at will. They use these fins to regulate body temperature; they raise them to cool off when they become overheated. The bright colors on the fins double as a means of attracting mates.

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.

Spikey is the twelfth dragon in the Natashina clan and is extremely temperamental, even for the strong personalities within the brood. She does not get along with Roland and finds him arrogant and cold. Her attempts to get under Roland's skin have been met with no success. She admires Starsin greatly and finds herself amused by the antics of Azureskie and Bloom. She studies Magus as he teaches, but is rather distrustful of magic. She finds quiet company in Jasper, enjoying the simple pleasure of looking over stones. Spikey teaches the stories of battles to the hatchlings with Iris, who is her mentor and dear friend.