Kusuriya no Hitorigoto [Season 2 Episode 13]

The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 Episode 13: A Soothing Dip into Palace Politics

The Apothecary Diaries has always been a masterclass in blending historical intrigue with sharp wit, and Season 2 Episode 13, titled “The Baths,” is no exception. This episode takes a breather from the high-stakes drama of the previous arcs, opting instead for a lighter, more character-driven narrative—though, as fans have noted, not without its fair share of palace gossip, hidden tensions, and yes, a sprinkle of fanservice.

A Relaxing Interlude? Not Quite.

The episode centers around Xiaolan, whose term of service in the rear palace is nearing its end. With her future uncertain, Maomao and the ever-energetic Shisui step in to help her find a new job. What follows is a delightful (and occasionally steamy) trip to the palace baths, where the trio’s chemistry shines.

Fans have praised the episode for its balance of humor and subtle world-building. While the bathhouse setting might suggest pure fanservice, the show cleverly uses it as a backdrop for political maneuvering and character development. As one Reddit user put it: “Even the ‘relaxing’ moments in the palace are loaded with politics, gossip, and disguised tension.”

Shisui Steals the Show

Shisui, the palace’s resident mischief-maker, continues to be a fan favorite. Her cheerful demeanor and knack for dragging Maomao into absurd situations (this time, massaging concubines in the baths) add a layer of levity to the series. However, eagle-eyed viewers have noticed something… off.

Several comments point out Shisui’s strange avoidance of Lishu, one of the concubines. “Didn’t even face her way all that time,” one fan observed, sparking theories about hidden depths to Shisui’s character. Is she more than just a bubbly informant? The show drops enough hints to keep speculation alive.

Fanservice with a Purpose

Let’s address the elephant in the room: the fanservice. While The Apothecary Diaries isn’t known for gratuitous scenes, Episode 13 does lean into the bathhouse trope—albeit with restraint. Fans are divided. Some appreciate the lighthearted approach (“Nice chill fan service episode”), while others felt it was unnecessary (“Almost a filler episode”).

But here’s the thing: the fanservice isn’t just for show. It serves as a vehicle for character interactions and plot progression. Xiaolan’s innocence juxtaposed with the more worldly Maomao and Shisui creates moments of genuine warmth. And let’s not forget the hilarious image of Maomao, ever the pragmatist, treating the bathhouse like a workplace (“Maomao got a job, scares a little sister, and makes a high-ranking concubine nervous”).

The Ghost in the Bathhouse

Just when you think the episode is all fun and games, it throws in a classic Apothecary Diaries twist: a ghost sighting. The final moments tease another mystery, reminding us that even in the most relaxed settings, danger (or at least intrigue) lurks. Fans are already theorizing about the implications, with some linking it to the new eunuch’s suspicious resemblance to a certain character.

Final Thoughts: A Necessary Breather

After the emotional rollercoaster of recent episodes, “The Baths” serves as a much-needed cooldown. It’s a testament to the show’s strength that even its slower episodes are packed with character moments and subtle foreshadowing.

As one MyAnimeList user aptly summarized: “A pretty chill episode after the ‘big’ revelations last episode.” And really, isn’t that what makes The Apothecary Diaries so special? It knows when to dial up the tension and when to let its characters—and its audience—take a breather.

So, grab your herbal tea (or whatever Maomao would approve of) and enjoy this delightful detour. Because if there’s one thing this episode proves, it’s that even in the baths, nothing is ever just about relaxation.

Rating: 4/5 – A soothing yet slyly significant episode that keeps the palace’s secrets bubbling under the surface.

What did you think of Episode 13? Drop your theories (or bathhouse recommendations) in the comments!