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.

When she clambered from her egg, Leithne was easily distinguishable from the other hatchlings by the broadness of her shield. It did not take long before she engaged in play-fight with her siblings and cousins, training her stamina and dexterity in the process. In adulthood, Leithne defends the clan's lands against the ever invading Blacks such as Bodhildr and Hafgrimr. No matter the strength of their claws or their magic spells, Leithne can trust her tail-shield to keep her safe while she waits for the right moment to lash back at her opponent.