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.

MairanaFin is a Dorsal dragon, and unlike the other two Dorsals in her family, has very little control over her fins, which are liable to shoot upwards and sideways at the slightest rise in temperature. A cheerful, enthusiastic and exuberant dragon, everyone is fond of her, though they tend to stay a few feet away during summer or when she is particularly hyped about something. She has also discovered a new use for her fins- swimming floats. While PearlWave the Water dragon is one of her good friends, MairanaFin isn't a very good swimmer and couldn't join her friend on any oceanic expeditions. While struggling in the water, the Dorsal agitatedly spread out her fins, and found that she could float! The cool water also ensured that her fins didn't spring up at the slightest notice. From that day on, PearlWave and MairanaFin have travelled many waterways together, searching for treasures and new dragon species.