Zmiy

Deep in a green forest lived a big, wonderful dragon. His home was on a tall mountain where he could see the bright sun wake up. The dragon's name was Zmiy, and his scales were shiny and green. They shimmered like a thousand pretty jewels. People told stories about the great dragon who flew in the clouds. This is the myth of Zmiy.

Zmiy was a good dragon who took care of the forest. Flap, flap, flap went his giant wings. His wings brought rain down to the thirsty little flowers. Whoosh. His fiery breath was not mean. It was like a big, bright lamp to light up the dark night. One day, a brave hero came to the mountain. His name was Dobrynya Nikitich. Dobrynya heard stories that Zmiy was a scary dragon. But was Zmiy scary? No, no, no. Zmiy was just helping the rivers run to the big sea. He was helping the stars sparkle in the night sky. Dobrynya saw that Zmiy was a kind dragon, and they became friends.

Grandmas and grandpas still tell the story of Zmiy. They tell it around a warm, cozy fire. The story teaches everyone to be brave and also to be kind. It helps us remember that big, strong creatures can have big, gentle hearts. You can see Zmiy in picture books, flying in imaginary skies. His story flies forever. If you look up at the fluffy white clouds, maybe you will see a dragon, too.