Gold dragons are the ones most often killed by humans, who consider their scales to be extremely valuable. These golden scales grant them a high level of protection, similar to armor, and they use this to their advantage in battle.

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.

His detractors alternately call Tabini too ruthless or inexperienced to lead Kad's clan. He bemusedly watches their jaws hang open, year after year, as he continues to deliver on his promises of prosperity. A pragmatic leader, he understands that he has his own shortfalls, but is splendidly successful at finding the wiliest negotiators and dangling his unique assets to get the best deals. His most talented strategist, Valeng, declares Tabini is the only leader she will ever respect. With a good clan at his tail, he eventually hopes to make his alliance the most powerful in their land.