The aftermath of the assassination attempt on Jinshi was explored in episode 20 of The Apothecary Diaries, which aired on February 24, 2024. Additionally, the episode delved into various plot lines surrounding Jinshi's true identity and the fate of Suirei.
The anime can be currently streamed on Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney Plus. The Apothecary Diaries series consists of 24 episodes, with no confirmation yet on a second season.
Disclaimer- This article contains spoilers for The Apothecary Diaries series.
The Apothecary Diaries episode 20 highlights
Suirei as shown in the anime (Image via TOHO Animation) - The Apothecary Diaries episode 20 highlights
Suirei as shown in the anime (Image via TOHO Animation)
Maomao wakes up in Jinshi's quarters, finding herself bandaged and attended to by Suiren, who then escorts her to a meeting with Jinshi, Gaoshun, and Basen present. Jinshi questions Maomao about her presence at the recent ceremony and her foresight regarding the falling pillar, leading Maomao to share her suspicions of a plot to harm a noble.
She also mentions the theft of ceremonial items and points towards a metalsmith as a possible suspect, speculating that the metalsmith may have been unaware of the true intentions behind the commission, hinting at a deeper conspiracy involving the knowledge of a secret technique. After this discussion, Maomao ponders Jinshi's involvement in the event and briefly considers Suiren's potential role.
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Later in episode 20, Lihaku reveals to Maomao that Suirei was suspected to be the perpetrator, leading to her death from drinking poison. Maomao, unsure of Suirei's fate, resumes work with Suiren, contemplating Suirei's personality and intentions. To gather more details, Maomao talks to the overseeing physician about Suirei's autopsy, specifically inquiring about the thornapple poison.
Maomao becomes more suspicious as she uncovers that the body found in Suirei's coffin is not hers, implying that Suirei faked her death by using a particular medication. Maomao speculates that this medication can simulate a state of death, enabling Suirei to flee without detection. Initially doubtful, Jinshi and Gaoshun eventually comprehend and acknowledge Maomao's theory.
Lady Loulan as shown in the anime (Image via TOHO Animation)
Lady Loulan is depicted in the anime, according to TOHO Animation.
Jinshi takes time to ponder Suirei's case and has a personal conversation with Gaoshun about various topics, including the idea of finding a romantic partner. They pay a visit to Loulan and Lady Gyokuyou, where they delve into discussions about court politics and personal relationships. Maomao, on the other hand, goes back to the rear palace and carries out tasks for Lady Gyokuyou while reflecting on her thoughts about Gyokuyou's possible pregnancy. Despite her uneventful return, Maomao continues to contemplate her observations.
In episode 20 of The Apothecary Diaries, it was disclosed that Jinshi was using certain medications to maintain the facade of a 24-year-old eunuch. His identity as a eunuch and his age of 24 were merely a facade, as Jinshi is actually 19 years old, adopting the guise of a eunuch for undisclosed reasons to be unveiled in future episodes.
The episode concluded with Lihaku overhearing a conversation at the Verdigris House, suggesting the presence of more intrigue to come.
Final thoughts
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The upcoming episode 21 of The Apothecary Diaries, titled "How to Buy Out a Contract?", is set to be released on March 3, 2024. This episode will primarily delve into Lihaku's challenges with the Verdigris house. Additionally, viewers can look forward to the exploration of Lakan's backstory and his current narrative in the upcoming episodes.
Editor's P/S:
This article provides an informative summary of episode 20 of "The Apothecary Diaries," delving into the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Jinshi and