Asyra's Call: The Aura Realm, #1

By Maya Unadkat

One girl. One horrible mistake. And no Aura.

From debut author Maya Unadkat comes the first in an exciting and mysterious Young Adult Fantasy trilogy, filled with romance and adventure and perfect for fans of Harry Potter and Percy Jackson!

 

Ellora Artemer has managed to secure her place in the most prestigious Aura School in the Realm. Only problem? She has no Aura of her own.

 

When her best friend suddenly becomes the most powerful Aurum in the school, Ellora must do all she can to avoid getting kicked out. But after a mysterious visit from the legendary Madori Spirit, she discovers a type of power even more potent than magic.

 

With this power stolen and the entirety of the Madori Kingdom in danger, Ellora knows that magic or not, she has to save them. Yet, as she hunts down the thief, she realises that her lack of magic may be far more connected to her dark past than she knew.

 

Will Ellora Artemer confront her demons in time to save the Realm or will all she knows be lost?

• Language: English
• Publisher: SilverDust Press
• Release date: Mar 3, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215765869

Maya Unadkat

Maya Unadkat is a multi-genre UK-based author of young adult fantasy and romance novels. She is a student at Royal Holloway, University of London working to acquire her Bachelor of Arts degree in French and Spanish. When she was just sixteen, she discovered her love and passion for writing and when, at age nineteen, she was hospitalised due to appendicitis, she decided to begin working on her first novel. She hasn’t stopped writing since. Her passions include stories, chocolate and Jane Austen.

Book preview

Chapter One

Home on the Water

Once again, Ellora Artemer found herself staring at the wooden door only a few metres down the corridor from her bedroom. Inside stood the purple-painted walls she knew like the back of her hand, even if she hadn’t seen them in years. Nobody had. But she knew that now they would be charred. The walls would be blackened, and the furniture would be damaged. She didn’t need to see it to know it. It was an unspoken rule in the Artemer household not to go in there. Not that anybody wanted to, anyway; Ellora’s mother would still cry every time she walked past a daisy because they reminded her of the ones painted on those purple walls, and Ellora’s father would avoid even looking at the door at all costs, averting his eyes to the floor when he walked past.

Ellora, while she didn’t want to go inside, didn’t avoid the room. She liked to sit on the floor opposite the plain white door. It reassured her and made her feel safe. It filled the gaps and changes in her life she would never get used to. She could picture every single detail about that room: the white, wooden bed frame; the thick duvet covered in multicoloured spots; the wooden toy chest at the foot of the bed, filled to the brim with stuffed animals and plastic dolls and small cars. It had been eight years since Ellora had last set foot in that room, and yet she remembered it perfectly.

Ellora, are you finished with your packing? her father called from downstairs. We really must be going soon.

Can you come up for a moment? she replied, jogging back to her own bedroom and away from the wooden door, before jumping onto her suitcase to squash it closed.

Her father’s heavy footsteps sounded muffled against the cream carpeted stairs leading up from the ground floor. He was a tall, ordinary-looking man, thinner than he used to be, but healthy-ish, nonetheless. He poked his grey head through the doorway to her room. All good, Ellie? The sound of her father’s nickname for her made a bright smile spring onto Ellora’s face; it was a nickname she didn’t hear very often anymore.

Almost. Can you help me shut the suitcase? Ellora’s voice was muffled by the bag. She had to keep her arms and torso stretched across it to stop it from springing back up. Her father chuckled at the awkward position she had gotten herself into as he walked over to the bed and zipped up the suitcase. He lifted the heavy bag and carried it down to the car.

Ellora looked around the room once more, silently saying her goodbyes to the familiar white walls and wooden furniture that had hosted her for the past eighteen years. She gazed at her reflection in the oval-shaped mirror that hung over her dressing table. Her chestnut eyes glistened brightly against her light brown skin and long brown hair. She would be back eventually, of course, but for now, it was time to start her ‘new journey’, as her father kept calling it. Ellora had no huge expectations, but she was still hoping to have fun at her new school (well, she liked to think of it as more of a training academy) for as long as she could.

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The car journey was quiet. Her mother’s quiet was expected; she didn’t speak much anymore. And her father’s quiet was a nervous quiet, which Ellora understood. After all, his not-so-little princess was moving away. But Ellora’s quiet was mostly due to the nausea she knew was to come when they crossed through the Gate. It was never a pleasant experience for Ellora, but coupled with her anxieties for the day, she knew it would only be worse. And then the dreaded moment arrived; she saw the soft shimmering from a distance, but the humming could only be heard when they got closer. She squeezed her eyes closed, bracing for impact. And then it was over. They were in the Aura Realm. And Ellora promptly vomited into the paper bag kept in the car for that very purpose.

Their goodbyes didn’t take long. Her mother hugged her. Not a real, warm hug that her mother would have given her eight years ago; more like a shell of a hug. Her father patted her on the shoulder and told her to look after herself. He made her promise to call him when she had the chance before getting back in the car.

Any nausea Ellora was feeling immediately vanished when she caught sight of it, the long stretch of still, unnaturally calm water glistening before her.

Most people from her Fourth School would have been ridiculously envious of her for getting accepted into the best school in the Realm, but that only made her feel worse. It didn’t help at all that people kept congratulating her for getting accepted, but, guilty or not, here she was, standing in front of the Madori School of Aura.

On this early afternoon in October, the sun shone down brightly, but Ellora still had to clutch her jacket to herself tightly under the breeze. She looked out at the enchanting building. It was carved from a white marble that sparkled under the unseasonably warm sun. A grand set of stairs led from the water to a magnificent, arched doorway at the front of the floating castle.

The door was flanked by two mighty towers that rose up, almost, but not quite, covering the beaming rays—the place looked like a castle fit for a queen. But it wasn’t a queen who would be staying there; it was Ellora. And others, of course. But Ellora still couldn’t quite believe this breathtaking castle would be her home. She felt that feeling again. A feeling of guilt. A feeling that told her she was a fraud by showing up here, a liar.

She was dragging her suitcase alongside her when she felt an odd sort of tugging sensation. She looked down, but there was only her suitcase. She felt it again, stronger this time, and dropped the suitcase in shock, her eyes widening as she watched the case fly up and away, towards the building ahead of her.

Nearer the water, some students were introducing themselves to others, and others were catching up with those they already knew. Further away, the sounds of parents sobbing their farewells to their children, who would be in their First Form, like Ellora, could just about be heard over the sounds of excited chatter from the older students. In the crowds of people, Ellora recognised only a few that she knew and none that she was hoping to see.

The entire building looked like it was floating on top of the ocean, sparkling a beautiful, turquoise colour in front of them. But it was a bit of a mystery, to all of the youngest students, like Ellora, how exactly they were supposed to get inside. Would a bridge appear? Or would a path rise up from the ocean floor?

Movement from the corner of her eye made Ellora turn her head just in time to see another student, who looked to be maybe two or three years older, walking straight towards the water. All eyes were on her, as she moved forward, her steps carrying her across the surface of the water. There was a collective gasp from the other First Formers, as she continued to walk on top of the water, and towards the castle.

I should have guessed it, Ellora muttered to herself, the water is enchanted. She was, after all, in the Madori Kingdom.

More and more of the older students followed until the First Formers had the courage to do the same. And then, she was walking on the water, too. After attending school in this Kingdom for years, she really should have expected nothing less miraculous. But still, she found these little things breathtaking.

For a moment, she held her breath, wondering if she, too, would be able to enchant water in such a way after her training. It was almost poetic how the clouds shadowed the sun just as she realised that she would not be enchanting water. She would not be enchanting anything, for she was here because of a mistake. No matter how much she wished it wasn't true.

Walking on the water was easier than she had expected it to be—just like walking along a path, in fact, only she could see the seaweed floating under her feet and the fish hurrying away from them. It was as if there was some sort of an invisible barrier keeping the two worlds separated.

Upon approaching the castle, it was much easier to appreciate the smaller details. Water trickled gently down the towers, creating tiny ripples in the water below. Intricate carvings that looked like Doran—the ancient language of the Madori Kingdom, which had died out hundreds of years ago—were still prominent in the marble.

At the bottom of the stairs, almost as if guarding the castle, was a statue of Arellia—the founder of the Madori School of Aura. It seemed like just yesterday that Ellora had been tucked into bed with her sister while their parents told them all about Arellia and the other eight founders. The two would beg for tale after tale until they fell asleep.

A faint smile ghosted across her face at the memory, but it fell quickly after.

Stepping forward, Ellora moved to look closer at the statue. It was really only a chiselled block of stone, but Ellora was surprised at how realistic it looked. Her hair was long and was curled realistically around her face. Part of the stone reflected the colour of the ocean, and its blue eyes seemed almost to sparkle. Even the statue somehow looked like a goddess.

A shiver ran down Ellora’s back and she stumbled, light-headed. Steadying herself on the bannister, she forced herself to take a breath and continue up the stairs. It must have been the reflection of the sun against the water. She had never coped overly well in the heat, and the bright beams were likely exhaserbating her anxiety.

That unwelcome feeling of guilt hit her again when she walked in, but she shook it off; she was here either way, so there was no point in feeling bad about it. And with that internal reassurance, she finally stepped through the unnecessarily large copper doors.

The entranceway itself was similar to a large atrium, with stone floors and blue-coloured walls. Directly in front of her was a small set of double doors, which seemed to lead to an outdoor area. To the right of these doors was a very wide staircase with an extravagant bronze railing leading upwards.

To the left was a set of huge doors, almost big enough for a giant, and to the right were similar doors, but these were open. Ellora walked over and peeked into what looked like a never-ending library. She wanted to come back later with Belle, her book lover of a best friend.

At that exact moment, as if on cue, Ellora felt a tap on her shoulder, Elle, we absolutely need to check out this library later! Ellora turned and felt relieved as soon as she spotted the golden hair that belonged to her best friend.

Bee, you have no idea how happy I am to see you. She hugged Belle tightly, before stepping away, feeling immensely relieved. Belle’s green eyes were filled with warmth and reassurance.

Ellora recognised that Belle must also have been feeling nervous, as much as she didn’t show it, since she had donned her favourite black cashmere cardigan – one Ellora recognised as a sign of comfort, as well as a confidence boost, for Belle.

She saw Dan’s brown hair and handsome features appear behind Belle as he stepped towards Ellora and greeted her warmly with a quick hug, which she returned. Nice to see ya, kid. He smiled cheekily.

Don’t call me ‘kid’! Ellora stomped her foot on the ground childishly, and the three laughed warmly, instantly feeling more relaxed.

I just heard from one of the guys back there that the Madori Mistress is about to speak to us, he gestured to a vague area behind him, before wrapping his arms around both of their shoulders and leading them a short way down a burgundy carpeted corridor, and through a door that the other students seemed to flow through.

She smiled warmly at the pair as they stood towards the back of the large room before looking up to see a young woman, who couldn’t have been more than thirty years old, walking in front of the crowd that had gathered. This was the leader of the school — Madori Mistress Oriel Delow, Ellora recalled. The leaders of the schools, like Oriel Delow, were all required to have an especially strong affinity for the Aura school they would lead.

She walked with such poise that it almost looked as though she was gliding through the air. However, when talking to the First Formers, an air of authority could be felt radiating from her. In her eyes was a determination so strong, it was almost aggressive.

Good afternoon, everyone, she began, her voice somehow strong and delicate at once. "I’m pleased to welcome you all to the Madori School of Aura. I know some of you may be tired from your long journeys, so I won’t keep you for very long.

As you all know, there are six different Auras. Madori. Ellora heard a gasp from behind her and turned to see an old-looking, grey-haired man, who had been standing on the side of the room, move his hands in a large arc around his body. Water gushed from his fingertips as they moved, and a large arched shape made entirely of water was formed, hovering in front of him.

Incendi, Oriel continued, as the man standing to the left of the first one lifted his left hand, palm up, with a bright, colourful ball of fire hovering over it.

Caeli. Next was a brown-haired woman who, with a small twisting motion of her wrist, created a small but powerful tornado-like gust of wind below her, lifting her into the air where she remained, floating a meter from the floor.

Terrari. With delicate fingers, the dark-haired woman who was next in the line coaxed a tall sunflower to grow directly from the carpeted floor in front of her.

Glassi. A white-haired man was next, and in one thrust of his arms into the air, the entire wall behind him was encased in a white, glittering layer of ice.

And Ferri. Finally, at the end of the line, there was a tall, large man who smiled kindly at all of them. With a gentle wave of his fingers, a dozen butterflies manifested from thin air and came to rest upon his arms.

Ellora watched in awe at all of them, unable to tear her eyes away. She had never seen a demonstration of so many Auras at once, and certainly none so beautiful. She had only seen Aura used for practical reasons, like lighting a hob or filling a glass with water.

Each of you will discover an affinity for one of these Auras as the days go along, Oriel continued with her speech, interrupting Ellora’s train of thought and drawing her attention to the front of the room once again. But I would like you all to remember that you will not be practising your Auras straight away. Like all arts, and as you have just witnessed, Aura can most certainly be an art form, it takes time and patience. You will begin by working on harnessing and controlling your skills.

She proceeded to explained to the First Formers how to find their rooms and that girls would not be allowed in the boys’ corridor and vice versa. She also told them about the Welcome Dinner they would have that evening. I look forward to seeing you all later. She finished her announcement.

As the other people around the trio moved in many directions, rushing out of the room trying to find their rooms, Ellora focused solely on staying close to Belle, unwilling to lose her in the confusion. She also wanted them to locate each other’s’ rooms so they could easily find each other.

Belle reached down and held her hand, giving an encouraging look, apparently able to sense her nerves. Elle smiled back at her, determined to be brave, as they walked towards the staircase together, hand in hand, waving goodbye to Dan, who went to find his own room.

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Standing in awe inside Ellora’s new bedroom, she and Belle looked around, jaws dropped to the floor, slowly taking in the sight of her new living space. With only thirteen rooms in the corridor, the room was very easy to find.

The walls were painted a beautiful blue-grey colour that reminded her of pebbles, and below her feet was a pristine, white carpet that Ellora imagined could only be kept so spotless using Aura.

On the left was a white door, which led to an incredible bathroom. After poking her head in, Belle reported back to Ellora that it even had a bathtub and was generously spacious, housing two separate sinks for Ellora and her new roommate.

Next to the bathroom were two very large wardrobes that were big enough for them both to walk into. Hearing a sweet voice come from the bedroom door, Ellora and Belle turned around and quickly scrambled out of one of the wardrobes.

It is cool, don’t you zhink? Ellora heard the slight French accent coming from behind her and turned to see a slim girl with long, curly, ginger hair and a light dusting of freckles across her nose and cheeks standing in front of the bed closest to the door. One glance behind her, at the bed, showed she had already begun to unpack her belongings.  I ’ope you don’t mind, but I feel more comfortable sleeping next to zhe door. Her chocolate-coloured eyes looked hesitant, worried her new roommate wouldn’t agree.

Ellora glanced around the other side of the room, at what would be her own bed, walked over to it and shrugged off her denim jacket; her side of the room looked slightly more spacious, which she was happy about.

Not at all. I’m Ellora, by the way. She smiled warmly and held out her hand for the girl to shake.

I am Melody. It is lovely to meet you, she replied with a bright smile and a quick but firm handshake.

And this is my best friend, Belle. Ellora introduced Belle, who gave a smile and an energetic wave, which Melody quickly reciprocated, relief clear on her face. Belle was quick to strike up a conversation by complimenting Melody’s blouse.

As Melody returned the compliment, a conversation sprung up. Ellora could hear them in the background, as she wandered over to her bed and placed her largest piece of luggage on top; Oriel had told them that their luggage had all already been taken to their student rooms by some of the staff.

The beds were elegant double beds with a small bedside table on the right-hand side of each of them. Next to Ellora’s bed was a window, which showed the view of the outdoor area she had caught a glance of when she had first arrived.

From this window, she had a rather beautiful view, as she could see multiple parts of the castle at once, from being this high up. Directly underneath her was a little, stone-paved courtyard packed with tables and benches and Ellora looked out to see the older students gathered in small crowds, catching up with each other. Behind the courtyard, however, Ellora could see a large fountain that looked like it would be a wonderful place to sit and relax, listening to the flow of the water. And, to the left, Ellora could see the sharp marble walls that made up the castle itself. She sighed, content with her new home.

Elle? The sound of her name snapped her back to reality and made Ellora jump up a little.

Huh?

I said we should all go to the Welcome Dinner together, Belle laughed at her flustered state.

Oh. Yeah, of course.

Ellora insisted on accompanying Belle to her own room and helping her unpack. They left the room and turned left, away from the stairs, to find Belle’s room. Just as they began to walk, Belle stopped. Elle, wait. We can find my room later, but we’ve got ages – why don’t we go and have a quick peek around the library? It’s the perfect time – it’s bound to be empty at the moment. Belle grabbed Ellora by the arm and shook her, looking slightly like a six-year-old begging their parents for sweets. Ellora chuckled at the sight and turned around. Come on then, Bee, she sighed jokingly, like a parent giving in to supplying their six-year-old with sweets.

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They found the library quickly, walking down the four flights of stairs that led to the main entrance hall of the castle and turning left through the arching doorway. Wow. Belle looked around the room with amazement gleaming in her eyes the second she stepped through the door. The library was filled with a seemingly endless number of bookshelves that went from floor to ceiling, covering the walls from end to end, with an aisle parting the way between the central shelves.

It’s amazing, right? A voice said fondly. Ellora turned to her left, where the voice had come from, to see a plump young woman sitting behind a dark oak desk. I love this place, it’s like my own personal paradise, she said. I’m Wendy, by the way, the librarian. She stood up and walked over to them, hand outstretched.

Ellora. And this is Belle. Ellora shook her hand, offering a friendly smile to the short woman and gesturing towards the tall, blonde, jean-clad figure who had already run down the first aisle of