Esen grins, throwing an arm around Insu's shoulder as he drags him away from their allies (and, for a lot of them, Insu's adoring fans). He knows from their years together that many of their rank and file idolize Insu. It's harder for those who don't spend any significant time with him to see him as a person and not just some ideal. Esen was once like that.

But he's empathetic. That's exactly why he joined this movement. He wanted to effect change that would help the people of their world. Insu was bigger than life among the rebels. Charismatic, electrifying. Being good-looking didn't hurt, either. It earns Insu many admirers.

However, the longer he worked through the ranks and got closer to Insu, the more he saw that this man, this inspirational man, would work himself to death for this cause. He couldn't tear himself away for the work. But malnutrition and lack of sleep would hurt them all. So he started pulling Insu away. For a few minutes. For a few hours.

Over their few years together, Esen introduced Isnu to his mama and his sisters, started bringing him home for meals when he'd visit their homeworld. All to help him take a break from their work. But also to help him see the faces of the very people he's helping, to give him a more intimate sense of belonging.

"She made a bunch of your favorites. She's missed you." Esen looked his friend over and sighs. "She's going to tell you're too skinny and try to fatten you up again."