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.

An active dragon, she often sits on the ledge above the cave, near the Guardian, and watches for something that catches her eye. Then, swift as you please, she spreads the ridged wings that fold against her great dorsal and is off to investigate. Usually it's just dinner, a creature brought back to be offered the Guardian or those members of the cave that rarely venture forth. Sometimes, an unlucky human will find itself pinned under her massive paws. If their intentions are innocent or perhaps ignorant, they are loosed with a warning that not all are as merciful. If they came for a fight, it is one swiftly ended and she returns to her perch.