Marek removed his bracers and collar and set them beside the bed before removing the belt.  Doxi wasn't sure if she imagined it or not, but he seemed to almost... shrink... when the belt came off.  He'd said he felt stronger with it on, but to be visually affected.... that was impressive.   He lay on the bed and said, "If you find me too lumpy, I'll take no offense at you adding a pillow or blanket."  But dutifully he lay as best he could across the bed, presenting his entire body for Doxi to choose where to pillow her head.<br/><br/>When she did lay down, his arms couldn't reach very far, but he did lightly caress her head and shoulders till she fell asleep.   It was, for Marek, a long night of trying to stay so that his captain was still comfortable.  But eventually he slid out from under her at sunrise, and with a look back at the sleeping changeling, turned into a bird and flew from the back window.  Dawn was when he had to say his prayers, and he figured that this way would be least likely to wake the captain.<br/><br/>He of course didn't know that only a few hours later, Cassie would be knocking at her door.