The Mercenaries of Mayhem rode toward the Black Dragon Campaign's main camp, the air growing heavier with every mile.
When they arrived, they saw smoke rising in the distance—and the sound of battle.
The group moved to higher ground, where they could see everything.
In the valley, Karoth's army clashed with the Black Dragon.
The dragon was massive, its jet-black scales gleaming like polished obsidian. Its crimson eyes burned with rage as it lashed out, its tail sweeping through soldiers, sending them flying like ragdolls.
Karoth, wielding his massive dragon-slaying greatsword, led the charge, moving like a force of nature.
His blade met the dragon's claws, sparks flying.
Arrows and magic attacks bombarded the beast, but its scales deflected most of them.
Mercenaries charged, but the dragon's flames incinerated entire squads.
Some warriors barely dodged as the dragon's wings created shockwaves, knocking them down.
The battlefield was chaotic.
The dragon was injured—but not enough.
Even as Karoth slashed its wing, it roared and retaliated, nearly crushing him beneath its massive claw.
The other mercenaries who had joined the fight were clearly outmatched.
The battlefield reeked of blood, smoke, and scorched earth.
And up on the hill—
The Mercenaries of Mayhem watched.
Bob squinted. "Sooo… are we doing this?"
Jim, arms crossed, exhaled. "I dunno, man. This looks like a lot of effort."
Marcus, adjusting his goggles, nodded. "Yeah. That thing's huge."
Bam tapped his chin. "Objectively speaking… this seems unwise."
Derek, watching Karoth barely dodge a dragon swipe, sighed. "But we did take the job."
Bob groaned. "Look, I was hoping the army would, you know… handle it."
Jim motioned toward the battlefield. "Well, clearly they aren't."
Marcus shrugged. "Maybe we should wait and—"
Just then—
The dragon unleashed a massive fire breath, melting armor and weapons, forcing Karoth's army to scatter in panic.
The group watched in silence.
Then Bob clapped his hands together.
"Welp. Guess it's our turn."
Jim groaned. "Dammit."
And with that, the Mercenaries of Mayhem joined the fray.