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.

Nardoda would love to be an artist. From the time she was a hatchling, she was always drawing stick dragons in the sands of the hatchery. Nardoda's main problem with this treasured goal of hers is that even as an adult she is still drawing stick dragons, and not very good ones at that. This hasn't stopped her from setting up a small stall outside her cave and 'peddling her wares,' as she puts it. She is sure someday somedragon with the right artistic vision will come past and discover her great works.