The Hollow Realms

In the mystical land of Aetherra, emotions are not just feelings-they are raw, elemental power. Every person is born bearing a Soulmark, a glowing sigil that reflects their dominant emotion. Joy can illuminate entire cities, sadness has the power to heal deep wounds, anger can ignite roaring flames, and fear can form impenetrable shields. This emotional spectrum shapes not only magic but also society itself, dividing people into strict classes based on their Soulmarks.

But Elara Myles, sixteen, is different. She is born soulless-her skin untouched by any mark-a rare and feared anomaly. Hidden away and rejected by society, Elara lives in the shadows, carrying a secret she barely understands. When a mysterious attack destroys her village, she is forced to flee and seek refuge in the Citadel of Echoes, a prestigious academy where teens with emotion-based powers train to control their abilities.

At the Citadel, Elara encounters others with unstable or fractured Soulmarks, teens who struggle with emotions that society refuses to accept. Together, they uncover a terrifying truth: someone-or something-is draining emotions from people, turning them into Hollow-empty, emotionless shells with dangerous power. As Aetherra's emotional core begins to collapse, Elara must face her own identity and the secret power within her. Could the very curse she fears be the key to saving their world?