Her comment on her own dream gave Rannon a grin that showed his teeth. Even if it was true, it was a funny coincidence of the dreaming cliche'. He appreciated her lightheartedness. He was a bit too dense to see her flushing, and her eyes on him. But he had to admit he noticed that she didn't seem intimidated or judgemental of him like some of the women he'd known in his life. Well, not that he'd [i]known[/i] them. 

He'd not had time for a woman for much of his life. First he had to actively protect his younger siblings, coupled with helping his parents with their shop. Next thing he knew he was a soldier, and the brothel life never suited him like it did for some of his mates. He always figured he'd get married after he gained Sergeant or Captain status. Then again, that was also in a world where his friends and army weren't slaughtered. 

He seemed much more calm now, though quiet. He placed his hand over Gideon's back and smoothed his fingers over his hound's fur. He gave a small smile at that, but mostly just spooned the porridge down his throat. He ate like it was a chore that needed to be done. Old habits died hard, it seemed. 

Feri's words broke his reverie, and he looked up at her. She had this uncanny ability to make him smile. Maybe it was because he thought her pretty, but honestly she had that understanding yet in-your-face way about her humor. Still, he shook his head past his fading grin. "It was just a dream." He told her. "I've been having bad ones since Ostagar. A part of me..." His voice trailed off. The soldier shook his head and breathed, taking a few moments before giving the rest of his thought. "Part of me thinks it's punishment for running away. I probably deserve it."

If there was one way Rannon was like a Dwarf, it was his stubborn stoicism, and a truly fatalistic view of the world. He'd wake up screaming every night, and take it like it was how he was to live now, gritting his teeth through it just as he had through the Darkspawn infested forest. The thought of the forest brought a small fire to his eyes. If he was being honest, he couldn't wait to get into combat again and spill Darkspawn blood. He placed a hand to his forehead, over his eyes. Tufts of his brown hair were between his fingers. "Maybe they'll subside. Maybe I just need to get to Redcliff and make sure Loghain pays, and then I'll feel better." 

He didn't know. How could he? Justice would surely be something to accomplish with his borrowed time here, at least. "You make me feel better." He bluntly said aloud. Though even with him being unapologetically blunt, he made sure to keep his hand over his eyes for a few more moments, and then to not look at Feri for fear of embarrassment. "So does Gideon." He patted his Mabari once more. Gideon was busy slurping his porridge, but seemed to relax as Rannon stroked him.
[@MiddleEarthRoze]