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.

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.

Born to the Steiner family, Alija was lost as an egg, and counts herself fortunate to have been found by the dragons of Aedin's Reach and their caretakerpet human, Patrick. Now that she has grown, Alija repays their generosity by standing guard, and ensuring that only friendly visitors are permitted to approach the castle. Alija is endlessly patient, and never tires of watching the world below; still, she appreciates the antics of her tiny apprentice, Warden, that lend variety to her days. Where other dragons laugh at or scold the enthusiastic hatchling, Alija only encourages and adores Warden, perhaps contributing to her arrogance.