Joyful, Puzzled, Head Pat, Serious! The Handsome Jinshi from "The Apothecary Diaries" Shows a Range of Emotions in a Short Time

A noble handsome man changing expressions rapidly is sure to make hearts flutter!? Episode 5 of the anime "The Apothecary Diaries" is a must-watch, focusing on Jinshi (CV: Takeo Otsuka) who displays various expressions upon learning Maomao's (CV: Aoi Yuki) secret.

"The Apothecary Diaries" is an anime based on the light novel of the same name by Natsu Hyuuga. It has been adapted into manga in two monthly magazines, with the series surpassing 40 million copies in circulation. The TV anime aired for two consecutive cours from October 2023, gaining popularity for its mystery drama centered on Maomao, who works as a "poison taster" in the rear palace, and the comical interactions between Maomao and the handsome eunuch Jinshi. The second season began airing in January 2025.

Jinshi, the eunuch managing the rear palace, maintains a gentle demeanor and polite speech in front of consorts and court ladies, charming women with his dazzling smile. However, there's a scene where this flawless Jinshi unusually shows a change in emotions.

Attending a garden party in the rear palace, Jinshi visits the Emperor's favorite consort, Gyokuyou (CV: Atsumi Tanezaki). There, he finds Maomao, Gyokuyou's favorite maid, and happily peeks at her face saying, "Now, how is the princess..." However, instead of the usual freckled face and plain clothes, he sees Maomao beautifully made up in gorgeous attire. Jinshi freezes in astonishment, captivated by the glamorous Maomao. Coming to his senses, he asks, "Are you wearing makeup?" but Maomao replies, "No, I'm not." "Your freckles are gone," he notes. "Yes, I removed them," she answers. "You removed them with makeup, right?" "They disappeared because I removed the makeup," she explains. After this exchange, Jinshi looks even more confused.