Dustin's gaze sent a chilling fear through Vlad's core. Vlad had thought his plans were foolproof, but Dustin's strength shattered those hopes.

"Let them go, or face the consequences," Dustin warned, projecting a menacing presence.

"No way!" Vlad, furious, pulled out a gun and aimed at Dustin. But before he could react, Dustin disappeared and reappeared before him.

"You—" Vlad was startled, and Dustin grabbed his wrist, snapping it violently.

"Ah!"

The gun dropped from Vlad's hand, and a st