The Zmeu [Romanian mythology]

Along with the Balaur, a separate kind of creatures, a Zmeu is a representation of evil in Romanian mythology. Unlike the beastly Balaur however, the Zmej are humanoid creatures with limbs and are capable of using human tools and weapons. Despite this, there are also depictions of Zmei as dragon-like monsters.

As Zmei are capable of breathing fire and flying, they are dangerous creatures. There are several Romanian fairy tales or folk tales which describe a Zmeu kidnapping a pretty young girl to marry, and eventually being defeated by a heroic prince or knight.

(image source 1: Ciprian Tapu) (image source 2: Viktor Vasnetsov. This is a more beastly representation of the creature)