Witch, Please (Not Your Basic Witch Book 1) Read online

  Witch, Please

  Book 1 of the Not Your Basic Witch Series

  A.J. Macey

  Jarica James

  Blurb:

  Aris Calisto, newest student at Aether Academy of Crystal Magic and Witchcraft not only stands out with her quirky outfits and bubblegum pink hair but also draws attention by being what’s considered the lowest of the low in the Akasha society- a Mixta.

  When mysterious things start happening, including unexpected bindings, things going missing, and being claimed by a not-so-traditional familiar, Aris realizes she’s in over her cotton candy-colored head. Enter in the five guys who have been magically roped into Aris’s rodeo:

  -Caspian, the playful potions brewer,

  -Drayce, the summoner who never seems to get overwhelmed,

  -Kye, a broody rune drawer who Aris can’t help but pester,

  -Xan, the spell caster with no sense of humor to speak of,

  -and Torryn, the history professor who seems to demand every waking hour working on mastering her power.

  With a cauldron full of men behind her, can Aris use her i’magic’nation to figure out what’s happening to her capricious coven? Or will she find out that life’s a real witch?

  Book 1 of the Not Your Basic Witch Series

  Legends of Asteria Trilogy 1

  Warning:

  The Not Your Basic Witch is a WhyChoose/Reverse Harem trilogy featuring MMFMMM meaning there is M/M content, and the female main character doesn't have to choose between her love interests. This trilogy is the first in a series collection consisting of six trilogies titled Legends of Asteria. Each trilogy should be read in order.

  This book contains references involving violence, and other themes that some readers may find triggering.

  Contents

  Chapter 1

  Chapter 2

  Chapter 3

  Chapter 4

  Chapter 5

  Chapter 6

  Chapter 7

  Chapter 8

  Chapter 9

  Chapter 10

  Chapter 11

  Chapter 12

  Chapter 13

  Chapter 14

  Chapter 15

  Chapter 16

  Chapter 17

  Chapter 18

  Chapter 19

  Chapter 20

  Chapter 21

  Chapter 22

  Epilogue

  Resting Witch Face

  Acknowledgments

  Also by A.J. Macey

  Also by Jarica James

  Stay Connected

  Copyright © 2019 by A.J. Macey and Jarica James

  All rights reserved.

  No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

  Cover: Moonstruck Cover Design and Photography

  Editing: Personal Touch Editing

  Formatting: Inked Imagination Author Services

  Dedicated to:

  A.J.-

  My daughter, Evelyn Rose.

  I believe in you.

  Jarica-

  My sons Owyn and Kellan, who make my heart full every day.

  I love you

  September 2nd

  Monday Morning

  Aris

  As the magic driven carriage rattled down the cobblestone road, the wind whipped through the open window, shifting my hair around my shoulders in a wave of cotton candy pink. My eyes scanned the passing trees and buildings as the carriage pulled me through the long, winding roads, hoping to catch a glimpse of what would be my new home. The summer weather was slowly giving way to cool crisp air, and the leaves were ever so slightly turning into beautiful golds, reds, and browns. The trees and cooling weather were pleasant changes from the dry desert heat of my home territory, Ignis. The reminder of home had my expression tilting down into a frown. Home had hardly been welcoming, anything but. Witches weren’t very accepting of those without affinities, or Mixtas as they named us, and my family was some of the most judgmental.

  Shaking off the downward spiral of thoughts, I turned back to watching the world pass by. The anticipation of reaching my destination grew from a small niggle to complete antsiness as my legs bounced anxiously. After traveling for over a week to get to Aether, I just wanted to see where I would be spending the next four years of my life. A week stuck in a carriage with no one else to talk to was making me go crazy. At least I had snacks and a few books to keep me company.

  Humming softly, I shifted for what seemed like the hundredth time to stretch my cramped muscles. The rhythmic sound of the spoked wheels turning over the stones set the perfect rhythm for the tune I had made up on the spot, singing quietly to myself to help pass the time. It was slow going, but after another little while, I finally saw the stone structures of my ultimate destination. I couldn’t peel my eyes away from the prestigious buildings. The dark stone of the school was a perfect contrast to the crystal clock tower I’d read so much about. Iridescent crystals in light blues, purples, opal, and pink swirled around the cylindrical structure in the center of the school grounds. A new feeling started to brew in my chest as I took it in, a mixture of freedom and hope. A wave of lightness lifted my spirits, pepping me up as I drew closer. After years of being made to feel like a failure, I felt as though I would finally get a chance to be myself. To finally use the power I did have with less judgment and accusation. At least none of these people can practically disown me for what I can or can’t do.

  As the cart finally reached the main gateway of the school—after what felt like another hour when in reality it was only a few minutes—I felt the magic fueling my mode of transportation dissipate abruptly, forcing me to jerk forward at the unexpected stop. Ow, I thought, rubbing the spot on my head that had smacked into the front of the carriage. They really need some safety precautions on these things. An older witch came forward as I opened the door to exit. As I stepped out, I made sure to give my sore muscles time to adjust to movement. Giving me a tight smile before pulling my bag from the back-luggage racks, he didn't speak a word as he put it in front of me, opting to focus on his tasks rather than small talk. That’s fine, not like I’ve been alone for the last week or anything. Squashing the irritated thoughts, I focused on the witch next to me as he quickly whispered an incantation under his breath. The carriage started its journey back home as soon as he finished his spell.

  “This way,” he mumbled quietly, turning on his heel, heading for the gate without a backward glance. Gathering my bag, I lugged it onto my shoulder as I struggled to keep up, my muscles rebelling at such sudden use. The massive wrought-iron gates swung open as soon as we neared, and a wave of magic swept over me as I officially entered the ground of Aether Academy of Crystal Magic and Witchcraft.

  Holy shit, I’m finally here.

  I made sure to keep the excited dance I wanted to do contained, but only just, as we continued to stand right inside the gate while it swung shut behind us. After a few quiet and frankly tense moments where I shuffled back-and-forth, another man came striding down the stone walkway toward us. He wore a navy-blue blazer with a silver tie and burnt orange sweater vest. The colors seemed to be an odd combination until I recognized the school crest was embroidered on the pocket, identifying him as Headmaster of Aether Academy. Huh, he doesn’t look as scary as I imagined. His gray hair and beard trimmed to perfection, everything about him prim and proper, except his wide, toothy grin. The excited expression made him look kind and carefree—if not a bit eccentric—but if my past had t
aught me anything, I shouldn’t take anything at face value.

  “Welcome! You must be Aris Calisto! I’m Headmaster Tallis. Your mother called to ensure your belongings arrived safely. I assured her they were up in your dorm room, waiting for you. I trust the ride was pleasant?” he asked in a rush, barely giving me a chance to respond before taking off up the path. I ground my teeth at the mention of my mother. Of course, she didn’t bother to ask about me. It had been hard enough to be shipped off, but that reminder was just a slap in the face. Though I tried to look at this as a positive… maybe this is a blessing in disguise.

  “Unfortunately, since your trip took so long, you’ll have to jump right into your schooling. But you’re definitely early enough today to see the campus before your first class, which is in a half-hour. Let’s get you to your room first. Wouldn’t want you to have to carry that bag around with you all day, now would we?”

  My head spun to the point of dizziness from his quick ramblings and the overwhelming newness of everything. I attempted to use my powers to ease the weight of the duffle on my shoulder, but I couldn’t focus long enough to do so, meaning it was up to me to lug it to my room. No, Headmaster Tallis, I wouldn’t like help or anything. Thanks for not asking.

  “That would be lovely,” I managed to squeak out as I power walked to catch up to him, my arms screaming in protest at the weight of my bag. Despite saying there was enough time to tour the place, he stayed silent, focused on getting wherever the hell he was hurrying to.

  If I hadn’t been huffing and puffing, I might have had the chance to look around as we reached one of the buildings. Instead, I was trying not to die from lack of oxygen or collapsing from the exercise my body wasn’t used to. Headmaster Tallis slowed when we entered one of the other buildings outside of what seemed to be the main cluster on the campus grounds. They all looked similar, but each had a unique picture on the wall. I could see crossed wands over one and the school crest on another.

  The hall we stopped in front of was made of stone and brick, two similar images painted on the door. It was easy to recognize the symbols representing the gods and goddesses. The first was an image of a circle with crescent moons on the sides while the second consisted of another circle, only this time the crescent moon was lying on top. When we entered, I noticed the arches rose high above to allow little folded papers to whizz from one location to the next to reach their designated readers.

  Nice to know I’ll be able to message people whenever I want.

  Although I have to make some friends first.

  I also need to figure out how to enchant the little airplanes.

  “This is the student dormitory which houses both males and females. Everyone here is above eighteen, which makes you all adults, and we expect you to act as such. However, each section has its own Resident Advisor, and any squabbles or issues should be taken to them first before approaching a teacher or faculty member. Although most freshmen are on the top floor, you’re in the north tower room since it was the last we had available due to your late arrival. It’s a bit offset from the other students and quite a walk up the staircase, but it should suffice. It was previously storage, but we had it converted for use. That means you get a bigger room,” he added the last part with a hint of teasing in his tone, but something about it set me on edge. He seemed nice on the surface, but the more I listened to him talk, the more I realized he also seemed annoyed at this whole interaction.

  Great, did he have it out for Mixtas too?

  The walk up the staircase was worse than I anticipated, leaving my cheeks flushed and my legs quaking by the time we reached the top. At least I’ll be in shape by the end of term, I thought as I hurried after him. He finally stopped when we reached the end of the hall, a wide, wooden door the only one left. It seemed older than the rest of the building, clearly not part of the update when they did a remodel. He pulled out an old-fashioned key and unlocked the door, handing it to me and ushering me inside. Well… somebody certainly is in a hurry.

  When I stepped into the room, my jaw dropped. The tall, peaked ceiling of the tower was overhead, making the room seem huge. The room was circular instead of square, which made it unique—perfect for me. Squealing internally, I dropped my bag on the bed and spun in a circle, taking it all in. The furniture was still piled in the middle of the room, along with the boxes my mother had sent, which meant I’d get free rein to set it up however I wanted after dinner. This is exactly the kind of fresh start I need.

  “Alright, ready to get on with the tour of the rest of the campus?” the headmaster asked, clearing his throat and looking annoyed. Not wanting to go to class unprepared, I grabbed my messenger bag with my school supplies from my duffel and followed him out of my room. I paused to lock the door behind us, tucking the key into my bag as we shuffled down the spiral stairs.

  “Kyelerian,” the headmaster called as soon as we reached the main floor. A tall boy with a wash of five o’clock shadow covering his jaw stopped at the sound of his name. Sighing to himself, I watched him grind his teeth before walking over to where we stood. He gave me a quick once over, his eyebrow quirking up at my pink hair before turning his eyes to the headmaster. I tried to listen to what Tallis had to say but couldn’t help but stare.

  His eyes drew me in first, a gorgeous rich brown with flecks of gold in the hickory depths. The furrow in his brow didn’t make him look inviting, in fact, he looked downright hostile at being called out. Thanks, headmaster, this will surely help me make new friends.

  My eyes moved lower, taking in his lean build and apparent muscles under his black shirt. Tattoos peeked out from under the sleeves he had pushed up slightly. I caught a small symbol but couldn’t tell what it was before he crossed his arms over his chest. When he glanced back over at me, I quickly moved my eyes back to his, though my flaming cheeks definitely gave me away. Clearly, my social skills leave something to be desired.

  “Perfect!” Tallis’ cheerful exclamation pulled me out of another round of intense—probably a little creeperish—staring. “I’ll leave you two to your tour.” The headmaster scurried off, looking relieved at having a way out of showing me around. Taking a steadying breath, I glanced over at the broody boy in front of me as he looked less than pleased with the fact he’d been stuck with babysitting me.

  At least he’s nice to look at.

  Kyelerian

  The new girl’s eyes trailed over me while I tried to pay attention to the task Tallis wanted me to do. Of all the damn students to pick from, he chose me as the face to represent Aether… why? I was hardly the poster boy for friendly and welcoming. I glared at the headmaster’s back as he hurried off, leaving me alone with the most cheerful-looking witch I’d ever seen.

  “Let’s go,” I mumbled, leading her out of the dormitory building. “Five buildings. That’s the Elemental and Spell Casting building to the left. Behind there are the staff housing buildings and the greenhouse. The forest separates the two. The library is next to the Elemental building, then administration and dining, and finally, Potions and Summoning. Your schedule should be marked with which building to go to. We all have lunch at the same time, so there’s no confusion.” When I finished my quick explanation, I turned to see her gaping at everything she saw, still lagging several feet behind me.

  “Does the tower chime?” she asked quickly, clearly missing everything I had just told her.

  “Yes, at the beginning and end of each period,” I said, starting to walk around the courtyard to the Administration building. I didn’t see a schedule in her hand, which meant she would have to start there. If she can focus long enough to make it there.

  “What’s your affinity?” she inquired, her cheerfulness dampened for a moment with the question. Huh, if she’s so down about affinities, she must be a Mixta. At that realization, her cheerfulness seemed even odder. Mixtas were accepted here but rarely anywhere else. Maybe it’s just a mask, trying to seem friendly to fit in. Who knows? Witches can be weird.

 
“Runes,” I answered, steering us around to the Administration building, hoping she wouldn’t come up with any other questions.

  The girl next to me, whose name I realized I didn’t know, bounced on her toes and stared wide-eyed at every little thing we passed. Her bubblegum pink hair was as bright as her personality, it seemed. My gaze narrowed as she somehow seemed to perk up even more as we rounded to the front of the crystal clock tower and got the full view of the silver clock hands. How is someone this cheerful over every single thing? She has to have smoked some of the hexing herb, I thought as we turned down one of the paths.

  “Are you always this happy?” I couldn’t stop myself from asking, my irritated tone making it clear it was a complaint rather than a playful tease.

  “Is that a problem?” she sassed, flashing me an obnoxiously bright smile. Along with the grin, I could see a hint of feistiness in her eyes. Interesting. Her cheerful nature made me want to push her, pester her until the girl she was beneath that sweet cotton candied smile broke through, and I could see what she was truly made of—sugar, spice, or something definitely not as nice.

  “Yes. I need more coffee to deal with that cheerfulness,” I mumbled back, realizing what I had said once it was already too late. She stopped abruptly, rounding on me with fire in her eyes—definitely a hint of spice in those steel depths.