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.

Istil is the type of dragon, despite her intimidating appearance, that will stay loyal to any of her friends. Many of her dragon friends try to figure out her backstory, yet, for some reason, Istil refuses to say it. Istil likes being a mysterious dragon to attract potential mates, and she's still trying to find a handsome, red Dorsal dragon to fall in love with. She desperately focuses on making her bright purple fins even brighter to attract a dreamy, red-finned partner.