Trying to Remain Calm but Totally Flustered—Jinshi’s Adorable Reaction in "The Apothecary Diaries" to the Emperor’s Suggestion That Maomao Become a Consort

As expected, does Jinshi (CV: Takeo Ōtsuka) have feelings for Maomao (CV: Aoi Yūki)…!? In episode 31 of the anime "The Apothecary Diaries", Jinshi’s panicked reaction when the Emperor (CV: Daichi Endō) jokingly says, “Shall I elevate Maomao to a consort?” is irresistibly amusing.

Jinshi, the eunuch overseeing the inner palace, is said to be so handsome that he would bring about the downfall of a nation if only he were a woman. However, Maomao (CV: Aoi Yūki), who is interested only in medicine and poison, remains cool and dismissive toward his advances. Over time, as their interactions accumulated, Jinshi, who at first viewed Maomao as a convenient pawn, began to feel differently.

In episode 31, Maomao and Jinshi accompany the Emperor on a visit to the “Shrine of Choices,” a maze-like, intricate place. After some failed attempts, Maomao figures out how to find the correct path through the shrine. She tries to ask the Old eunuch who manages the shrine (CV: Yoshito Yasuhara) if she can pass through again, but he refuses, saying, “You can't go in that many times… Especially since you aren’t a consort or a princess.”

At that, the Emperor jokes, “Then shall I make her a consort?” Naturally, Maomao is surprised, but Jinshi is even more shaken. He strongly admonishes the Emperor, saying, “You must be joking! What would the other consorts think!”