The Abused is The Abuser in Another World

Chapter 4: A Haunting Promise

The days passed slowly for Noir as he recovered in the small, abandoned building where Jess had brought him. The pain in his side was still sharp, but it had dulled enough that he could breathe without wincing. Jess visited him daily, bringing food, water, and supplies, checking on his wounds, and offering words of comfort and encouragement.

"You're healing well," Jess would say, smiling with that familiar, easy charm. "Just a little more time, and you'll be back on your feet."

Noir nodded, grateful but still haunted by the fear of going back to his adoptive parents. He couldn't return to that life—not after everything. Jess had become his only lifeline, the only person who seemed to care.

One evening, as the light outside began to fade, Jess sat beside him, a thoughtful expression on his face. "You know, Noir," he began slowly, "there's something I need to tell you."

Noir looked up, his curiosity piqued. "What is it?"

Jess hesitated, as if weighing his words carefully. "I know people," he finally said, his voice low. "People who could help you—help us both, actually. They're... a sort of group, a community. They believe in helping those who have nowhere else to turn."

Noir frowned slightly. "A community? What kind of community?"

Jess smiled softly, his eyes shining with an intensity that Noir hadn't noticed before. "They're like a family," he explained. "They take in people like us, people who have been forgotten, abandoned. They give us purpose, a place to belong."

Noir listened carefully, trying to understand. He wanted to believe that such a place existed—a place where he could be safe, where he could escape the pain and fear. But there was something in Jess's tone that made him uneasy.

"And... you're part of this group?" Noir asked cautiously.

Jess nodded, his smile widening slightly. "Yes, I've been with them for a while now. They've helped me in ways I can't even describe. They've given me... clarity. And I think they could help you too."

Noir considered Jess's words, feeling a mix of hope and suspicion. "What do they want in return?" he asked, his voice wary.

Jess's expression softened, and he reached out, placing a hand on Noir's shoulder. "Nothing you wouldn't be willing to give," he replied gently. "They believe in balance, in the idea that everything has a price. But trust me, it's worth it."

Noir nodded slowly, still uncertain. "Can I meet them?" he asked finally.

Jess's smile grew wider, his eyes lighting up with excitement. "Of course. In fact, I think it's time you did." He stood up, offering his hand to help Noir to his feet. "Come with me. I'll take you to them."

Noir hesitated for a moment, then took Jess's hand. His side ached as he stood, but he pushed the pain aside. Maybe this is the way out, he thought. Maybe this is the chance I've been waiting for.

Jess led him through the narrow alleys, the streets growing darker as the sun dipped below the horizon. Noir felt a chill run through him, but he kept moving, trusting Jess to guide him. They walked for what felt like an hour, deeper into parts of the city Noir had never seen before.

Finally, they reached a tall, nondescript building at the end of a quiet street. Jess paused at the door, turning to face Noir. "This is it," he said softly. "Are you ready?"