Ezra's scream pierced the air, only to be silenced abruptly by Dustin's unyielding steel grip.

He squeezed Ezra's throat, forcing the scream back down. Ezra's face turned crimson as he flailed helplessly.

The terror of imminent death filled Ezra, who managed to croak, "Let go ... please ..."

Dustin dryly remarked, "Fighting with a knife because your fists aren't enough, huh? Aren't you ashamed?'

His fingers tightened, making Ezra's eyes roll back.

"Stop hurting him!" Suddenly, a scream cu