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.

Refa began calling himself Lord Refa right around the time he reached adulthood and saw his fin in the mirror. Not only does the rather vain dragon think his dorsal fin is the most regal, he thinks it can't help but attract mates. He's right. It attracts. The problem is that while the fin gets him the attention of new females in Nadat's cave, his attitude of superiority makes them go elsewhere just as quickly.