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.

Gareth is a very good hunter. He serves as a Gadnin in the clan. Gadnins are lead hunters for a specific group of dragons (there are five dragons and each one has a rank: gadnin, beta gadnin, kurmo, chakelu, and farsu). Gareth doesn't like to fail, and when does, he gets pretty angry. Gareth has temper problems, but he's learning to control them. He is really a kind dragon who never gives up, and it's sad to see dragons attacking him just because of his problems.