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.

As an apprentice, Shadowwing was always very serious. He would never play games with the other apprentices. All he would do was practice hunting and striking techniques. Talonstar made Frostwing his mentor to teach him to ease up and have a little fun. This worked, but today his social skills are still not the best. Nevertheless, he is liked among his clanmates.