Zmaj
Zmaj is the Serbian dragon — a winged serpent dwelling in caves near villages. In Balkans lore, unlike the malevolent Russian zmey, the zmaj is often a benevolent guardian who fights the evil ala/lamia (drought demons). Can appear as a handsome man, fire bird, or smoke; takes human lovers (e.g., Tsarina Milica). Symbol of patriotic resistance against Ottoman rule.