Not Just a Whim! The Deep Reason Behind Young Jinshi's Toy Being Taken Away in "The Apothecary Diaries"

In episode 33 of the anime "The Apothecary Diaries," the childhood of Jinshi (voiced by Takeo Otsuka) is depicted. While his tearful reaction to having his favorite toy hidden is endearing, the "unexpected background" to this event is somewhat poignant and an essential episode for understanding the character of Jinshi.

Though Jinshi sometimes displays childish behavior towards Maomao (voiced by Aoi Yuki) and his overseer Gaoshun (voiced by Katsuyuki Konishi), he generally maintains the demeanor of a competent eunuch, with a calm attitude and polite language. This dual nature seems to have roots in his childhood.

In episode 33, the maid Suiren (voiced by Mika Doi) reveals details about Jinshi's childhood. She recalls that the young Jinshi had a favorite toy he played with constantly, leading her to secretly hide it from him. As she reminisces, "He would cry uncontrollably when it was taken away."

When Maomao asks, "Why did you take the toy away?" Suiren responds, "When one becomes fixated on a single thing, it consumes their focus. He was not born into a position where that was permissible." She adds that Jinshi's mother wished for him to mature, even if it was against his will.