Dragons are creatures with nearly unlimited life spans. They can survive for long periods of time, and no one has found a dragon that has died of old age. Adolescence 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. Once they hit adolescence, hatchlings change quickly, maturing to their full forms in only 2 years.

Dragons don’t communicate with each other verbally, but they will growl to scare off predators and frighten prey. Young dragons will emit an extremely high-pitched squeal when they are frightened. To communicate, they use telepathy with each other and to speak to other creatures.

Guardian dragons have large shields on the end of their tails. Although the shields appear to be heavy, they are light, yet nearly unbreakable. Guardian dragons use their tail-shields, as well as their wings, to deflect attacks and protect others. Often, they will guard the eggs and hatchlings of a nest while others are away. They are generally peaceful, and will not retaliate unless necessary. They have no need to forage or hunt, as they are fed by those they protect.

Plia guarded the gates to the great city with her mate, Firad. It was night and there was a fine blanket of snow covering the ground. Then, there was a star brighter than any other stars around. It pulsed with energy and seemed to be beckoning her towards it. Without realizing it, Plia had spread her wings and taken off with Firad following right behind her. Trusting that no dragon would dare come near the gates on that wonderful Christmas Eve, they followed the star until they found themselves at a small cave. They crouched down and entered. When Plia saw what was inside, she was speechless. There in a small pile of stones was the most precious little hatchling ever seen with glittering silver scales and wings. It moved a bit and Plia chuckled. Then, she glanced up and caught a glimpse of the poor, but proud parents. She said words of congratulations to them and gave them a few precious stones she had then left. To this day, Plia's tale has been told and passed on.