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.

Though definitely a protector and guardian of Ferwe Weyr, Samael has an inner darkness it seems no other dragon can penetrate or understand. Samael enjoys blood and pain, both his own and others'. He is protective to his friends, but completely vicious to his foes with no understanding of the phrase "measured response." His matings with Noewun are casual matters on his part, and he also has casual lovers in other weyrs.