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.

Shooglenifty's blazing orange eyes have a penetrating look about them. One look at the metallic spikes covering his back suggest this is not a dragon to mess with. Shooglenifty, eldest son of clan chief Shoogle, is second in command, a position earned not just by being the first-born. His physical superiority and his character set him apart from the rest of the clansmen. He has more of his mother Nifty's constant, yet firm nature, than his father's fierceness, and does not seek war unnecessarily. Through shrewd negotiation, he has managed to establish a long-desired peace between the Mac Shoogles and the proud Gold Dealan, much to the relief of his sister Cuimira and her lover Macan Mac Dealain.  

Shooglenifty was raised by his dragon parents, but was named by a human, Mirhana, who named him after one of her favourite bands of traveling troubadours, Shooglenifty (alas, for dragons cannot appreciate a good tune and a glass of scotch on a late Saturday night when all folks are merry!).