The anime "The Apothecary Diaries" continues to captivate audiences as it reaches a significant milestone, surpassing 40 million copies in circulation. Based on the light novel series by Natsu Hyuga, the show has gained immense popularity for its intriguing plot and engaging characters. The latest episode, titled "Kaouge," aired recently, showcasing the thrilling escapades of Maomao, a clever pharmacist's daughter with a fascination for poisons, and Jinshi, a handsome eunuch, as they navigate the perils of palace life.
In episode 36, Maomao and Jinshi find themselves under attack by assassins, forcing them to flee into a cave. As they attempt to escape, Maomao uncovers a secret that Jinshi has been keeping hidden. Meanwhile, back at the banquet hall where they disappeared, a message arrives indicating that "Lord's clothes were found from the rock face, and there is a possibility that he was swept away," sparking panic among the attendees. This revelation, however, is part of Maomao's clever strategy to expose the criminal behind the assassination attempt.
The recent "Kaouge controversy" on social media has sparked a lively discussion among fans, with many expressing their excitement and surprise at the unfolding events. Comments such as "This is so bold!" and "Jinshi, that statement was shocking!" have flooded online platforms, highlighting the episode's impact on viewers.
On March 25, 2025, voice actors Aoi Yuki and Takeo Otsuka appeared at an exhibition dedicated to "The Apothecary Diaries." During the event, they shared insights into their character development and the creative process behind the series. Aoi Yuki, who voices Maomao, donned a green cat-ear hair accessory and a stylish Chinese-inspired outfit, while Takeo Otsuka sported a colorful shirt under a black suit.
Aoi reflected on the recording process for the first season, noting that it involved separate sessions where the director provided clear guidance to ensure a faithful adaptation of the source material. "We all love the original work, so we formed a strong bond during production," she said, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the team. She described Maomao as a character with a sharp mind and a hidden passion, stating, "There’s a balance of coldness and emotion that I’ve recently begun to grasp in my performance. It’s about finding the right mix of her sharpness and her underlying warmth."
When discussing her relationship with Jinshi, Aoi mentioned that she has grown more comfortable with the character, noting, "I’ve learned to trust him as a capable superior, which has changed how I approach my scenes with him." Takeo Otsuka echoed her sentiments, explaining that he and the director had discussed the gradual development of Jinshi’s character, particularly how his perspective shifts as he learns more about Maomao.
Both actors expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to work closely with their co-stars, particularly during scenes that required intricate interactions. Aoi reminisced about the separate recording sessions, saying, "It allowed for a lot of contemplation, and I was grateful to be able to work with others, like Hiroki Nanami, who voices Luo-han, in scenes together. It really enriched our performances."
As the series continues to unfold, it remains a fan favorite, with its combination of mystery, clever plot twists, and richly developed characters. The first season premiered in October 2023, and the highly anticipated second season is currently airing every Friday at 11:00 PM on Japan Television Network's "FRIDAY ANIME NIGHT." The exhibition featuring the anime will be held at Matsuya Ginza in Tokyo from March 26 to April 14, 2025, allowing fans to immerse themselves in the world of "The Apothecary Diaries" and celebrate its success.
Overall, the blend of thrilling narratives and character depth in "The Apothecary Diaries" continues to resonate with viewers, making it a standout title in the anime landscape. As the plot thickens and characters evolve, fans eagerly await each new episode, wondering what challenges Maomao and Jinshi will face next.
