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.

Ladarna is part of a large clan of Guardians and Silvers living in a network of caves and tunnels throughout the Highlands of Alba. She mainly stays in one of the most south-western caverns, furthest away from the coast to the north-west where the elder dragons of their clan tend to live. Within this little domain, Ladarna is constantly and shamelessly trying to claw more power her way, certain no one but herself can lead the family's daily activities into good order. If she notices but a minor argument she bursts in to settle the dispute herself and arrogant as she is, Ladarna feels entitled to know everyone's comings and goings. Her family has few real leaders, relying instead on the support of the various relatives for each other. As a result, few really stand up to her, the more timid ones letting themselves being bossed around, others merely shrugging and trying to ignore her. Only her cousin Calma is resolute enough to point Ladarna to her rightful place in their society.