Heroes, Inc.

Cover art by John Steven Gurney.

"I saw the battle in there. Not exactly hero-like, but you do show promise. Where did you learn to use your blade like that?"
"In the army," Grover said. "And then, later, in private study with Curouch."
"Didn’t Curouch accidentally stab himself with his own sword, twice?"
"I have to go," Grover said, turning away.
Ballah grabbed his arm. “As I was saying, my friend, I was scouting for Hudo, but saw you instead. You're a natural! The witty banter. The way you retreat to make people believe you're a coward. Then allowing yourself to get wounded to fool your enemy that you’re inept. That was genius!  I made a killing on my wagers. And the tapestry bit at the end was inspired. You really know how to put on a show. What do you say to signing a contract? Say, five years? Doing hero work?"

Most heroes vie for the head of a dragon. Grover has to set his sights lower.