Shah! Trembling... Cat-Eared Maomao from "The Apothecary Diaries" is Adorably Cornered

In the anime "The Apothecary Diaries," the protagonist Maomao (CV: Aoi Yuki) is occasionally depicted in a stylized manner reminiscent of a cat, as her name suggests. Her sparkling eyes, filled with curiosity, are cute, but Maomao's maximum alertness when teased by Jinshi (CV: Takeo Otsuka) is equally charming.

"The Apothecary Diaries" is an anime adaptation of the light novel series of the same name by Hyuganatsu. It has been serialized in two monthly magazines and has surpassed 40 million copies in the series' cumulative circulation. The TV anime aired consecutively for two cours beginning in October 2023, gaining popularity and significant attention for its mystery narrative centered around Maomao, who works as a "poison taster" in the imperial palace, and her comical interactions with the handsome eunuch Jinshi. The second season has been airing since January 2025.

Maomao, with her dry personality, often displays a taciturn and languid expression. In episode 10, she becomes reminiscent of a hissing cat. After reporting to Jinshi on an investigation he requested, Jinshi evaluates her with a "passing grade." However, he mischievously approaches Maomao with a jar of honey, saying, "I have to reward a good girl."

Maomao, genuinely recoiling, declines with "I'll pass," but Jinshi, driven by mischief, scoops some honey with his finger and tries to make her lick it. Maomao, almost screaming, trembles further, thinking, "This guy thinks he can get away with anything because of his good looks!" and recalls, "Come to think of it, he is indeed such a pervert," visibly shocked by the excessive skinship.