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.

Protector of Vianth steps into her warm cave. She had spent all day deflecting arrows and cannonballs. Her beloved village always needed her help. Pleased of her work from that day she begins to eat the sheep the villagers had given her. Watcher of the Romans bounds up. She looks questioningly at her mother who gives a little nod and Watcher of the Romans dives into the wool for a mouthful. Protector of Vianth gazes proudly as Watcher of the Romans goes out to guard her first town. Protector of Vianth smiles. Soon Watcher of the Romans will be an adult and be able to help her mother protect Vianth.