The Way of Mathias by Robert McDermott

Mathias had a peaceful, simple life as a farmer. A ranger and a far-out link to the Emperor changed everything. His family murdered and the town where he lived destroyed. Mathias wants revenge but can a rural lad become an assassin? What will it take to bring revenge on the man at the top that started it all?
Fidem is ruled by an ever more paranoid Emperor Ludicious III from the capitol of Maiestate. Aging and seeking to secure his throne as he withers away he orders the murder of any with a claim to his throne. Far away in a quaint farming town called Lutum, a ranger arrives at the house of Mathias. The following events leave his Mother and father dead and Mathias a hunted man. As the anger takes to control it leaves Mathias with only one desire. Reach the Emperor and end his life. Along with Alexander the ranger that rescued him and Fayette a strong-willed and skilled fighter they make for Maiestate. Calling in all their favors and leaving destruction in their wake as they go only one question remains. Will the Emperor fall at their hands?