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.

Tiratulun is in charge of defending the Tira Clan's cave and its inhabitants. He takes his duties so seriously that sometimes the other clan members must remind him to eat. Tirariel, the clan's clown, calls him 'Bug' or 'Jitterbug' when she feels he's being overly serious. Neither dragon will explain the reason behind the nickname, but it does generally lighten Tiratulun's mood.