The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches
by Sangu Mandanna
Contents
Chapter Seven
Overview
Mika explores the warded beach, then crafts a harmony-inducing sea holly syrup. Over tea with Ken, Ian, and Lucie, she learns how Jamie became the girls’ de facto parent. Late that night, Mika and Jamie confront his distrust; he agrees to keep it contained, and her isolation is acknowledged and gently challenged.
Summary
Mika walks to the empty, windswept beach with Circe, noting the surprising lack of people and inferring that Lillian’s wards likely extend to the shore. She harvests sea holly and returns home.
In the attic, Mika experiments and brews a sparkling blue syrup from sea holly, crushed pearl, and moonlight, intuiting it will soothe tempers and foster harmony. Pleased, she heads to tea with Ken, Ian, and Lucie, sharing her restorative blend and light conversation, further integrating into the household.
On the walk back, Lucie explains Jamie’s hard-won authority and deep protectiveness: Lillian remained imperious and distant when the girls arrived, while Jamie, impossible to overrule, became their primary parent-figure. Mika accepts that Jamie doesn’t want her there but is urged to give him time.
Near midnight, Mika hears footsteps and meets Jamie outside. After she floats down from her balcony and he retrieves Altamira’s cherished toy, they discuss boundaries. Mika acknowledges the risk of outsiders but insists his visible mistrust will sabotage her teaching. Jamie agrees to keep it to himself so the girls can trust her.
When Jamie asks why she makes her public “witch” videos, Mika admits they were a workaround for lifelong isolation, a way to share excitement without revealing real magic. He recognizes her loneliness and tells her, in his guarded way, that at Nowhere House she isn’t alone.
Who Appears
- Mika MoonExplores the warded beach, brews a harmony syrup, bonds with the staff, and negotiates Jamie’s mistrust; reveals her loneliness.
- JamieNighttime guardian retrieving Altamira’s toy; agrees to hide his mistrust and acknowledges Mika’s isolation, hinting she belongs.
- LucieShares tea and explains Jamie’s de facto parental role; supportive of Mika while candid about Lillian’s imperiousness.
- IanHospitable and chatty host, mid-project as usual; enjoys Mika’s tea and lightens the visit with anecdotes.
- KenWarmly welcomes Mika, offers practical help, and teases Ian’s unfinished projects; part of Mika’s growing support circle.
- CirceMika’s dog; plays on the beach and naps, accompanying Mika through her day.
- AltamiraAbsent but central to Jamie’s errand; her missing penguin motivates his late-night search.