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.

Scarlett Lace has listened to Attar of Violets preach her "lore of the violets" and, while she recognizes the value of the traits Attar of Violets extols; of kindness, patience, helpfulness, and honor, she finds the religious zeal with which the purple dorsals follow this lore somewhat silly. She keeps herself separated from being associated with the purple dorsals' zealousness as much as possible.