Jinshi's Resemblance to the Former Emperor Deeply Unsettles Shenlu, Who Drinks Poison and Feels "Heartbroken"... Anime "The Apothecary Diaries" Episode 42

In Episode 42 of the anime "The Apothecary Diaries," which has been gradually airing since May 9, Shenlu (voiced by Masako Katsuki) is profoundly disturbed upon seeing the smile of Jinshi (voiced by Takeo Otsuka), which reminds her of the former emperor during his youth. Further unsettling events unfold as Shenlu consumes poison, causing shock online with comments like "Taking poison oneself is quite something."

In Episode 42, titled "Red Spider Lily," it is revealed that an eunuch, who disappeared along with Maomao (voiced by Aoi Yuki), was praying at the northern cemetery. When Jinshi arrives at the cemetery, he finds Shenlu, a veteran court lady from the imperial harem's infirmary.

Detecting the same alcohol aroma that Maomao had, Jinshi gently inquires with a calm smile, "I want to know about the freckled lady-in-waiting, maid of the Jade Pavilion." Upon seeing Jinshi's face, Shenlu recalls the young former emperor and turns pale, suddenly stating, "I remembered... my past memories," unexpectedly beginning to speak of old times.

Shenlu entered the harem as a child and was taken by the former emperor, who had an interest in young girls. However, as she grew, he ceased visiting her, leaving her unable to leave the harem for many years. In Episode 40, Maomao deduced that Shenlu was the mastermind who taught the head maid how to make abortifacients.