The Last Hero by Terry Pratchett

The first hero on Discworld stole fire from the gods and gave it to the people. The gods didn't really seem to be still upset about it, but with increasing sophistication of Discworld hero's are a dying breed and the last hero decides he'll return the fire: with intrest! Fortunately for discworld the plot is discovered, for if it will come to fruition the magical field that keeps the world together will be disrupted. The Authorities therefore assemble a team of men to save the world. Yes, the obvious ones are chosen: Captain Carrot, Leonard of Quirm, and of course Rincewind. (The monkey also goes along for the ride.) It's a long story, and they're ultimately successful.

The version I read was illustrated by Paul Kidby. I think the pictures in my mind are much better.

The Code was quite clear. One brave man against seven ... won. They knew it was true.
They looked down at Captain Carrot's sword. It was short, sharp, and plain. It was a working sword. It had no runes on it. No mystic gleam twinkled on its edge.
'To die for forty-three dollars a month,' said Cohen, holding the gaze, 'a man's got to be very, very stupid or very, very brave...'