Isn't it far bolder than a kiss...? In "The Apothecary Diaries," Jinshi's playful bite on Maomao's neck sends viewers into a frenzy

Two characters whose relationship is always filled with tension—now they're getting so daringly close!? In the anime "The Apothecary Diaries," a scene where Jinshi (voiced by Takeo Ōtsuka) bites Maomao (voiced by Aoi Yūki) on the neck has caused viewers’ heart rates to skyrocket.

"The Apothecary Diaries" is an anime adaptation of the light novel of the same name by Hyuganatsu. It has also been serialized as a manga in two monthly magazines, and the series has surpassed 40 million copies in total. The TV anime aired for two consecutive cours starting in October 2023. It gained major popularity and drew significant attention for its mystery plots centered on Maomao, who works in the rear palace as a poison tester, as well as for the comical interactions between Maomao and Jinshi. The second season of the anime will begin airing in January 2025, and in July, it was also announced that a sequel is in production.

One of the main charms of "The Apothecary Diaries" is the relationship between the cool-headed Maomao and the beautiful eunuch Jinshi, who is constantly concerned about her. In episode 48, the final episode of the second season, after the suppression of the Shi clan, Jinshi visits Maomao.

Recalling his previous promise—"I want you to listen until the end"—Jinshi intends to reveal his true identity as the emperor’s younger brother. However, Maomao is already fully aware of that fact, rendering the promise moot. When Maomao suggests, "Then perhaps something else instead," Jinshi suddenly bites her on the neck—and even tries to kiss her on top of that.