Firedrake

The Firedrake is a Northern European type of dragon common in Norse and sometimes British mythology. It is generally smaller and lighter than a normal classical dragon, and usually red in coloration. Firedrakes get their name from their primary method of defense-- spewing streams of flame powerful enough to melt rocks. These dragons are generally very agressive, and extremly posessive of their territory and their treasure. One firedrake, after a single cup was stolen from its hoard, attacked the surrounding area and eventually came into conflict with the Geatish king Beowulf. Beowulf killed the dragon at the cost of his own life.