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.

Purpura Pinna Dorsalis is an irritable fellow. All the other dragons say that Dorsals such as himself are common and have no value. Purpura is always insulted by statements such as these, so it's a wonder he hasn't exploded with anger yet.

Usually, Purpura is very gentle. He lets the hatchlings use his dorsal fin as a slide and clamber over him. When he presumes that someone has insulted his breed of dragon, he immediately becomes angry. His temper changes like the wind, and other dragons have a hard time knowing if he's happy or angry.

Purpura Pinna Dorsalis means Purple Dorsal Fin in Latin.