Holiday dragons are a very mysterious breed. They are only seen during winter, and even then it is hard to catch a glimpse of one. They are responsible for the general cheer that spreads during the holidays. In essence, they are the “Spirits of Winter.”

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.

Timberstrider is one of Phoenix's dragons. He is a grave but warm-hearted dragon with, despite his breed, a realistic outlook on life. Nonetheless, he is a generous and kind soul with a soft spot for the needy and less fortunate. On Christmas day (and many other times throughout the year, for that matter) he will carry gifts to others for several miles around, ranging from his own festive offspring to a simple but much-needed dinner. He is also an adept fighter, regardless of whatever presuppositions his appearance may cause; his beak has a strong bite, and he can kick in a manner not unlike a horse, and with similar results.

Timberstrider has no permanent mate, but he is close friends with Yemmi, and it is generally agreed on that they may have a closer relationship than they admit. Similarly, Timberstrider is supposedly in love with Sing a Different Tune (a rumor he fiercely denies). Tune finds this amusing and flattering, but her mate, Tigernatch, finds it less so.