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.

Elber Eth was once a relatively ordinary dragon; she had a sharp temper but was quick to laugh, liked the ocean, and studied runes and ancient lore. She was dear to the local dragons, and they would often ask her to watch over their hatchlings and eggs when they could not.

One day, however, a glazed look came over her eyes and she began speaking prophetically and performing healing magics. When she came back to herself, she had no memory of what had happened. From that day on, she continued to live a simple life, but at times would pass into the same trance-like state and act as an avatar for the Vala Elbereth.

At the end of a life lengthy even by dragon terms, Elbereth appeared to Elber and offered to take the dragon with her to Valinor and eternal life. Elber asked instead to be allowed to guard the dragons of her cave forever, and Elbereth granted her wish. Elber was transformed into a statue, and stands watch forever over the vulnerable eggs and hatchlings.