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.

Xewk's odd name comes from the Maltese word for "fins". He's a kind-hearted, goofy dragon, although not very bright. He's easily confused, and has gotten lost on numerous occasions. Usually, he's not very far from home at all, and has simply gotten disoriented. He has many strange habits that the other dragons tease him about, such as decorating his cave with insect wings and playing outside in rain storms. Luckily, he's not easily offended, and happily goes about his business regardless of what others think.