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 strong hand gripped his throat, silencing him. His face turned red as he struggled in vain, his feet off the ground.

"Where's Natasha?" Dustin's expression turned fierce, his presence overwhelming.

"Let … let me go … or you won't leave here alive!" Vlad desperately threatened.

"I'm asking you, where is Natasha?" Dustin increased the pressure on Vlad's throat, making it hard for him to breathe.

Vlad's face turned purple, and he began to kick wildly.

"Stop!"

At that moment, key members of the