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.

Fictapo is a stand-offish dragon. He spends lots of his time out in the field where his clan lives, off by himself. If approached, he will often stare for a moment, then take off without any kind of regard. When he sleeps, the other dragons know to be quiet, as he will wake up very grumpy, and may take off for two days at a time.

Fictapo's lifelong mate is Fictaea, another purple-dorsal dragon. Since their joining, Fictapo has become a bit less of a grouch, and looks forward to Fictaea being a mother.