Though he was increasingly dubious about her, the Widow was still more than capable of making Zain’s heart hammer with a look.  “It sounds enchanting,” he breathed finding himself thinking of something her manse might have other than gardens.  The dragon king gave a little groan, but added, “Still, these are valuable plants.  Do you have gardeners?  And are their shadowlands?”  The unearthly appeal of her androgynous form caressed his heart, sinking barbed hooks into his soul…<br/><br/>The dragon king reflexively reached out to steady Segiyu as the dynastic girl stumbled.  Zain’s concern for her broke the Widow’s spell—for the moment at least—and he turned his full attention on the shapely girl in white leather and jade.<br/><br/>“Please sit with me, my dear,” Zain offered, shifting a little so that the bulge beneath his loincloth was less obvious.  Though comely in her own right—and vibrant with health—the blushing girl was painfully plain compared to the dazzling array of inhuman beauties filling the room.  Zain found her suddenly refreshing.  The dragon king offered a charming smile, not entirely aware that he was himself one of those godlike beauties while wearing his orichalucm beads.  Though Segiyu could tell that she was talking to someone who was not remotely human, with sable scales, amethyst eyes and a crest of matching feathers, his attentive gaze and welcoming smile sank into her heart in a way that was sincere and warm.<br/><br/>“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Lady Segiyu.”  He took her hand and brushed curiously textured lips over her knuckles.  “Please call me Zain.  I would love to hear of your manse, and its gardens, and what you could do with additional medicines.”<br/>