The Apothecary Diaries [Season 2 Episode 13]

The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 Episode 13: A Slice of Life with Hidden Depths

The Apothecary Diaries has always been a show that masterfully blends mystery, drama, and a touch of historical charm, and Season 2 Episode 13 is no exception. Titled “The Ghost Enters the Diamond Pavilion,” this episode takes a breather from high-stakes palace intrigue to focus on the daily lives of Maomao and her fellow servants—but don’t let the relaxed tone fool you. Beneath the surface, the seeds of a new mystery are quietly being sown.

A Return to Form

After the intense events of the previous episodes, Episode 13 feels like a much-needed reset. Fans on MyAnimeList have praised the episode for its “chill vibes” and “cute moments,” particularly the introduction of a stray kitten that Maomao nurses back to health. The cat, amusingly named after Maomao herself (since her name means “kitten” in Chinese), becomes an instant fan favorite. One user joked, “Maomao adopting a cat named Maomao is peak self-awareness—this show knows exactly what it’s doing.”

The episode also revisits the dynamics between Maomao and Jinshi, with their usual banter taking center stage. A standout moment comes when Jinshi muses about how Maomao’s relationship with the cat mirrors their own dynamic—clueless yet endearing. Fans couldn’t help but laugh at the meta-commentary, with one Reddit user noting, “Jinshi’s realization that he’s basically Maomao’s pet is the funniest thing this season.”

Setting the Stage for Mystery

While the episode leans into slice-of-life territory, it doesn’t forget its roots. The Diamond Pavilion, a bathhouse frequented by the palace’s servant girls, becomes the backdrop for whispers of a ghostly presence. The setup is subtle but effective, leaving viewers intrigued about what’s to come. Some fans on MyAnimeList speculated that the “ghost” might tie into the larger conspiracy surrounding the emperor’s children, while others think it’s a red herring for something even darker.

One particularly astute comment pointed out: “The show excels at making mundane settings feel ominous. A bathhouse ghost story? Classic Apothecary Diaries—nothing is ever just what it seems.”

Fan Reactions: Love and Nitpicks

As always, the fandom is divided—some adore the slower pace, while others crave more immediate thrills. A common critique was the episode’s lack of a “big mystery,” with one user lamenting, “I was hoping for a juicy case to sink my teeth into, but this felt like filler.” Others, however, defended the choice, arguing that “after so much drama, a breather is necessary to let the characters—and the audience—recharge.”

The animation and voice acting also sparked discussion. Some fans noted that Maomao’s voice seemed quieter this season, with one commenter joking, “Did Maomao’s VA lose her voice from all the poison-tasting?” Meanwhile, the art style during comedic moments received praise for its expressive, almost chibi-like shifts, which one fan described as “a perfect balance between silly and serious.”

Final Thoughts

Episode 13 of The Apothecary Diaries Season 2 may not be the most action-packed installment, but it’s a testament to the show’s strength in character-driven storytelling. Whether it’s Maomao’s deadpan humor, Jinshi’s exasperated fondness for her, or the subtle hints of future intrigue, the episode keeps fans engaged while setting the stage for bigger things.

As one MyAnimeList user perfectly summed it up: “This show could make watching paint dry interesting—and this episode proves it.”

Rating: 8/10 – A delightful, if low-key, entry that reminds us why we love Maomao and her world.

What did you think of Episode 13? Let’s discuss in the comments!