Misfits & Thieves — Timothy Scott

A sudden blow to the back sent Andolar lurching forward in the saddle, and his movement caused the horse to turn. Something whistled past his face as he started to sit back up in the saddle. The flash of something past his face directed his gaze upward, to where a goblin archer was preparing to release another arrow. Time suddenly seemed to shift into slow motion as the situation penetrated his consciousness. He had already taken an arrow in the back, although the pain was not affecting him for the moment. Some of his escorts were trying to protect him. They wouldn't be in time. The rogues have finally found acceptance. They have overcome their past and found money and position, unless the goblin king takes it away. But just as they settle in for a winter rest, word reaches them that the duchess has been captured and her army defeated by the goblins. Andolar's father orders them to save the duchess. The only way to save her is to convince the goblins they are barbarian allies. If they fail, she will die. If they are discovered, they will die in torment. If they miraculously free her, they have fifty miles of hostile territory to cover through the massed goblin armies to reach safety. None of them believe they have a real chance, but they are determined to try.