Zavryd Nokynu, known simply as Zav, is a dragon shifter and judge from the cosmic realms who enforces Dragon Justice in Lindsay Buroker’s Death Before Dragons urban fantasy series. Thousands of years old and immensely powerful, Zav is accustomed to being obeyed and feared by those in worlds beyond Earth.
Zav comes to the Pacific Northwest hunting down paranormal fugitives—elves, mages, and other magical beings—who have fled the Dragon Justice courts and gone into hiding on Earth to escape punishment. When he encounters Val Thorvald, the freelance assassin with magical abilities, their partnership is born from necessity rather than choice.
Though initially dismissive of humans and mortal concerns, Zav finds himself increasingly drawn into Earth’s affairs and surprisingly connected to Val. His dragon perspective, ancient wisdom, and formidable powers make him an unstoppable force, yet his developing affection for Val and appreciation for human culture begin to soften his haughty demeanor over the course of the series.
Reading Order
See the complete Death Before Dragons reading order for all books in the series.