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.

Ormond Brynjar is a warrior-dragon, being aptly named "red warrior." Ormond is generally a reliable dragon, and he is considered one of the more mature dragons by his denmates. He is also known for his sense of humor, which when slipped into educated conversation makes the other adults laugh (and leave hatchlings clueless). In general, Ormond stays away from the eggs and hatchlings, but "deep down", he wishes that he could be a father. Ormond secretly loves Junko Galadriel, and he intends to court her once he is further in his warrior studies.