Viewers have come to love the comedic banter between Jinshi, who always teases Maomao, and Maomao, who responds with cool indifference. However, many viewers were taken aback by the intensity in Jinshi’s eyes as he carried Maomao in his arms. Reactions online include comments like “I could feel the love,” “He looks just like a prince, so cool,” and “I can’t... I’m in love...”

The anime “The Apothecary Diaries,” which is now being streamed in a binge-release format, is based on the light novel of the same name written by Hyuganatsu. The story has also been adapted into manga published in two monthly magazines, and the series has surpassed 40 million copies in total circulation. The TV anime aired in two consecutive cours starting in October 2023, and gained widespread acclaim for its gripping mystery elements revolving around Maomao’s work as a poison taster within the imperial harem, as well as the comedic interactions between Maomao and Jinshi. The second season of the anime began airing in January 2025.

(C)Hyuganatsu, Imagica Infos/"The Apothecary Diaries"Project

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