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.

Don Duan is a very selfish dragon. It takes two hours of grooming every morning to satisfy his vanity. He is not sure why he doesn't have a mate yet, but convinces himself that it's not his fault. Besides, he has yet to meet a lady as beautiful as him. Some of the other dragons avoid him because of his arrogant ways, but he has just as many admirers. His best friend is the noble Sir Duvalin, who inofficially adopted him.