Finn... couldn't argue with his logic. It still didn't feel like the same sacrifices, but the idea of responsibility weighed heavy on him, a little too relatable.

But not all of Poe's logic stuck with him. For instance, he wasn't sure that anyone became part of the Sith because they wanted to. Despite everything that Maul was, Finn didn't entirely believe he initially wanted it. But who really knew?

All Finn really knew was that his path going forward wouldn't be without hardship and obstacles and pain. It wasn't just that he was afraid of going to the dark. He was afraid he wouldn't be able to resist the dark.

"I can't bring you into this."

He was already going back on all of those thoughts about avoiding isolation. He hadn't realized Poe would be so... unshakable. That he wouldn't even be a little afraid, that Finn wouldn't have to beg him to stay just a little longer. Poe was too willing to keep Finn in the light, and that was dangerous.

Keeping him safe came first, it always had.