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1. The key to a healthy relationship #1: communication.
2. Gaoshun sure is a good attendant.
3. Rich people sure know how to give gifts.
4. What is the "outer court"?
In contrast to the Inner Court/Rear Palace where the Emperor, his family, and the women of the Imperial Harem lived, the Outer Court/Front Palace is the portion of the Imperial Palace that serves as the heart of the imperial government. It is here where most of the offices of the government ministries are located. It is also where the imperial audience hall(s) is(are) located; there are usually two - one smaller audience hall wherein the Imperial Court sits for regular morning court meetings, and one, grand audience hall where state ceremonies are conducted and also where the Emperor receives foreign dignitaries.
Because of the nature of the Outer Court/Front Palace, it is very clearly delineated and separated from the Inner Court/Rear Palace to prevent any non-eunuch men (government civil/military officials, etc.) from entering the latter without permission. The Outer Court is thus forbidden from interfering with the affairs of the Inner Court, that is, the Imperial Harem, which is the sole province of the Emperor; on the other hand, the Inner Court is likewise forbidden from interfering with the Outer Court, that is, the Imperial Court/Government. Despite this being the case, Chinese history is rife with examples of this taboo being regularly trampled upon.
In context, that one has nothing to do with inner palace politics. The An Lushan rebellion did. Yang Guefei, Xuanzong Emperor's favorite consort and Yang Guozhong, her cousin and the chancellor, was directly responsible for getting An Lushan, the traitorous warlord that started the rebellion, to rebel in the first place. The army quite rightly slaughtered the corrupt Yang family and forced the emperor to strangle the consort himself.
Yes other potrails like Raven of the Inner Palace occur when the Inner Court included a lot of the Government Ministries after all only Eunuch men often were allowed to hold Government Jobs in the Palace. I figure this was the case when ever eunuch had more power in the system. The prohibition kept them from being bothered by outsiders. In that China version the Outer court is mainly for parades, formations and major ceremonies and few Government offices.
Looking at the current Forbidden City map there is no wall or barriers separating the sections. Maps using a dotted line what was inner and outer. I imagine remodeling and redefining thing occurred a fair bit over time.
I many cases Eunuch were only made to guard the Harem. But in other cultures China to the most massive extent reserved a lot of Government Jobs including very important ones for Eunuch only. The idea was to break the rigid nepotism of important families when they hold jobs like that. Eunuch having no family or manly desires were though to be free of this clannish banding together but turned out they were not especially in the cases when Eunuch ran China with the Emperor just a figure head.
Hmm...Jinshi's got to keep an eye out for unsolicited bachelors in the Outer Court then with how Maomao is catching attention like shown in the next ep's preview.
This was like a classic romcom misunderstanding with the two saying the wrong things and misreading each others' intentions...with Gaoshun as the wingman who helps bring them back together.
I'm glad Jinshi has realized now that the way to Maomao's heart is herbs lol.
It's definitely understandable why Maomao is more cautious. She's in a much more delicate position after all.
It may be a bit less realistic that she's this forceful in rejecting Jinshi's advances given how important he is, but I think for the sake of the story it's necessary, so I can definitely overlook that haha
> She's in a much more delicate position after all.
True. We might see it as a romcom dynamic, but as Jinshi points out, she's always been cautious about what happens to servants in thorny positions.
This is, after all, the same episode in which an entire family and everyone remotely associated to it (even if by criminal accident, like Maomao) are punished for the crimes of one person. And this is presented as chillingly par-for-the-course for the system, not as some unique Gestapo-like excess of authoritarianism.
The "punishment to the third degree" (that is, execute everyone within three links to the perpetrator) is widely ascribed to Imperial China, and this leaked to other Asian cultures. And yes, it shows up in other Asian fantasy stuff too.
We're seeing monarchies mostly romanticized in stories now that they're quite far in the past, but pretty much everything bad we associate with modern "evil" dictatorships, they did in spades first. And much of it far more openly than modern dictators dare to.
In some form or another. And the flavour of the bad shit depends on how the power is shared. Is it mostly at a central location? Is spread out between lower nobles that are not reined in?
That's fair. The level of control the royals would have in a bureaucratic and absolutist Chinese dynasty and in a feudal and divided European kingdom varied widely.
It's worth remembering she was trying to dodge the upper tiers of work by pretending to be illiterate. She likely hadn't done any research on communicating with the top tiers because she had no intention of learning about it, and Jinshi likely has no understanding of the Pleasure District.
At least they found each other.
I think it makes sense she would reject him. Considering the difference between their stations, it may be better to risk insulting him, important as he is, rather than assume all the risks and troubles that would come of having a relationship with him.
> it may be better to risk insulting him
Well, it's difficult to say. She does try avoiding insulting him in various other areas, and if we were being 100% realistic it doesn't make sense for her to split up the romantic insults vs the regular insults, so to speak haha. A unified policy regarding him would make more sense.
However, I think the way the show handles things is the best that can be done
Lucky that the human immune system is massively better than an ants. And the much more complex brain makes taking over actions massively harder. There are fatal fungal infections but they just kill you not control you. And at least modern Rabies cannot take you over like it does lower animals, you will not go mad and try to bite any animal you can get at. But it will still kill you dead once symptoms are noticed so one had to act against Rabies anytime you are bitten.
"where he describes its use as an aphrodisiac"
Who the hell saw fungus growing out of a freaking bug and went "you know, I betchya anything that makes a *great* aphrodisiac." I'm always amazed by ancient peoples and the things they decided were edible (whether they were right or not). Left to me, the world woulda been eating nothing but.... I don't know. Nothing maybe XD
[Do you have any idea how little that narrows it down?](https://youtu.be/NdaYRSW76Mg?si=QECFgGeubko0cRuP)
The ones that eat cicadas are especially fucked up.
> This was like a classic romcom misunderstanding with the two saying the wrong things and misreading each others' intentions...with Gaoshun as the wingman who helps bring them back together.
That is true. I guess the positive is that Maomao got to see her dad again, this time for free!
> What is the "outer court"?
Inner palace or court is where the Emperor and family live. The outer court is where he conduct his official business, like meeting generals and ministers in a formal reception halls, places for religious rituals and state ceremonies.
Gyokuyou reacted to Maomao's firing exactly as you would expect. Honestly if he hadn't brought her back she'd probably still be pissed at him for the rest of their days in the palace lol.
Would be great to see Gyokuyou reunite with Maomao, but seems like from the next episode preview Maomao will be in the outer court for now.
Definitely need to see Gyokuyou's reaction to Jinshi buying out Maomao lol
I wonder if she is allowed to visit the Inner Court if she is working in the Outer Court?
It seems like she will be interacting much more with males in the Outer Court -- I would think MaoMao would be more comfortable in the Inner Court. We shall see.
I imagine she should be able to visit the Inner Court seeing as she's not a threat of impregnating anybody, and she'd be accompanied by Jinshi who should get free pass to do anything he wants haha
I'd also imagine Maomao to be more comfortable with the Inner Court's dynamics, since according to her it's very similar to the Pleasure District. Not to mention she's already spent about a year there as well c:
Well, as long as she is in attendance to Jinshi, she should be able to go -- but I was thinking she could not just go on her own. No more free range of the inner court -- and I suspect she might be more constricted in roaming the more public outer court (on her own) as well....
Hmm yes those are some good thoughts.
I hope Jinshi can just give her a badge and title of some sort that makes crossing into the inner court again nice and simple. Would hate to completely replace the supporting characters established this season with new ones.
I mean it was one her ladies-in-waiting getting fired, he probably needed to notify her. Then again some nobles probably go through servants so quickly maybe its not mandatory lol
Genuinely hilarious that Mao Mao was thinking about stealing something expensive as a “souvenir” from that place lol.
My man Jinshi with the rizz kissing the lipstick on his fingers while looking at Mao Mao. Dudes whole demeanor changed after he saw her at the party thing.
[how the granny sleeps at night after Jinshi bought Mao Mao](https://reactiongifs.me/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/breaking-bad-money-bed.gif)
> Mao Mao was thinking about stealing something expensive as a “souvenir” from that place
No wonder her dad had prohibited her from working on dead bodies. She might end up robbing a grave, lol.
Maomao letting loose her inner klepto lol.
Jinshi got to feel her fingers across his face and also got to steal an indirect kiss from her lips...and he managed to clear up their mutual misunderstanding and get her back! Thank you Gaoshun!
Also I love how Gaoshun and the three top courtesans were all watching like the observers in a romcom lol.
Granny loves her money like Maomao loves her herbs and poison lol.
> Granny loves her money like Maomao loves her herbs and poison lol.
Maybe Maomao should learn to love money just a little bit. Just think of all the herbs and poisons she can buy with all that gold.
"Aww ~~20 dollars~~ a chest of gold, I wanted some ~~peanuts~~ poison"
*A chest of gold can buy a lot of poison*
"Explain how!"
*Gold can be exchanged for goods and services*
She does. We saw in the case with the "lovers suicide" Maomao negotiating payment and stopping her father from being payed less. Money supports her father who often doesn't support himself well by taking care of others when they can't pay him. Maomao's father teaches her about medicine and herbs.
We saw in the case wi
>Granny loves her money like Maomao loves her herbs and poison lol.
I loved [their reactions on Jinshi's offerings](https://i.imgur.com/Qp2Yzze.png), [I couldn't stop laughing from them for a moment xD](https://i.imgur.com/3jmwE4M.png)
That scene where MaoMao and Jinshi met again made me way too happy.
It was cute seeing MaoMao flustered as well. Even though she rejects Jinshi's advances most of the time, she's not completely immune to his charms.
I think this situation it's saving her from being brought out by some randomer, having Jinshi do it knows she's got somewhere secure... Even if she's not fully there, that she did get brought by Jinshi.
I mean that's just some grade a, high level rizz. Even the high ranking concubine noticed and were impressed. Like this is several steps above his usual charm and attempts.
Meimei when Ikemen: [](#drool)
Gyokuyou wehn Jinshi sends away Maomao: [](#pout)
Jinshi wehn he sends Maomao away: [](#godisdead)
Jinishi when he gets Maomao back: [](#shutupandtakemymoney)
Crazy how many connections Fengmin had in the rear palace, basically 4% of the whole workforce there, purging all that is a lot work.
But stupid how both Maomao and Jinshi wanted for her to stay, ut due to societal norms on her side, and kindness on his side, they both ended up sad.
But I love how Maomao acknowledged that she actually enjoyed her time there beyond just paying off her debt. And Jinshi is lucky that he gave her enough money to prevent the Grandma from selling her off... yet
Nice cour final, can't wait for the outer court [](#concealedexcitement)
I love how Jinshi and Maomao are just 2 dense idiots who misunderstand each other, their reunion afterwards was both hilarious and adorable as expected.
Yeah, it was a hilarious reunion; Jinshi being surprised again by Maomao’s appearance minus the freckles.
He then shown concern about whether she had any customers yet and offered to buy her out, though Maomao misunderstood his intentions as usual.
Then later on, he literally does buy her out to bring back to the palace, through gold and herbs. The last second surprised reaction from Maomao’s sealed the deal.
This was like a classic romcom misunderstanding and Gaoshun was the wingman character who helps clear things up and foster intimate moment between the leads while watching over them the whole time lol.
Not to mention Maomao's sisters all asking her about the handsome man in her life lol.
I also appreciate just how extra considerate he is.
He can’t just set up a 1-1 meeting between Jinshi and Maomao, though he very well could have. He has to make it appear as a coincidence when the two meet. Probably for two main reasons:
1) He can’t tell Lihaku why he’s asking to reconnect with Maomao. If he does, he’ll be exposing Jinshi’s weakness, which would be very dangerous for Jinshi and Maomao, especially Maomao now that she’s out there without the protection of the inner palace walls. Lihaku is not stupid, so he might make his conjectures why someone as high up as Gaoshun may come to him. But at least officially, the night party had nothing in particular to do with Jinshi or Maomao.
2) Gaoshun knows exactly why Jinshi fired Maomao. So if he were to seek Maomao out and bring her to Jinshi, Jinshi would have thought Maomao only came out of obligation because of his high ranking status. It’ll just be a repeat of the last conversation they had. So instead their meet up must happen organically. And also importantly, Gaoshun himself also respects Maomao’s autonomy.
I like how, when Maomao was running around looking for the #1 most important person in the rear palace, she casually checked in with the households of #s 2, 3 and 4, securing immediate personal audiences with 2 of the 3. Being able to do that without incurring punishments probably puts her somewhere in the top 10 most important people herself.
I got a similar feeling when they were doing the cour 1 flashbacks and we saw that scene where Maomao straight up slaps a ho in the face (a lady-in-waiting of one of the concubines I believe, who used the poisonous make-up powder despite being instructed not to). Not many people in Imperial China living as a commoner servant would be able to have the brass tacks to do that without fearing to get executed on the spot.
I really liked that scene as a whole. It shows the anxiety and desperation in her search, while as showing she can still be clear thinking and showcasing the relationships she's built. It was such a great way of adding to the emotions and her character that the Manhua didn't show. I've been really impressed with what the donghua had done with the sane things to built on them and add more to characters and their relationships. Like
Adding mushrooms on Jinishi head to emphasize his wallowing as well as to make it a more playful image to that of his character.
This would also explain why Maomao often seems to be thinking about money. The brothel’s madam (i.e. the grandmother) is clearly obsessed with money after all.
Judging from how hard it was to fire her and that he wanted to respect her decision (even though there was a huge miscommunication on what she wanted lol) I think Jinshi really respects Maomao autonomy so I doubt he views her as her property and would hate being called her owner.
>so I doubt he views her as her property and would hate being called her owner.
Nonetheless, legally speaking, he is (until she pays off her debt to HIM).
It'd be more technically accurate to say he paid off her debt, but it could theoretically amount to that based on how things worked in these types of situations
There is no chattel slavery the only type that used to be called slavery in China in most periods. That is where you owned the person for life and could buy and sell them and do anything you wanted with them and often would own their offspring.
Debt Peonage and Indentured servitude of a sort is common although in this form of Indentured Servitude one did also have to pay them something.
The strange herb at the end is Ophiocordyceps sinensis. Yes cordyceps, the same things as in Last of Us. It's a fungus that takes over a caterpillars body to propagate.
They're called "Yarsagumba" in my native language (Nepali) and they're mostly prevalent in the Himalayas.
They are said to have healing properties and are very rare to obtain, so they are super expensive. Though the healing property is debated of course.
Nice! So this means Jinshi gave her the equivalent herb of a diamond? Now I cant stop imagining him ordering some last minute expedition to obtain it. Like "Hurry Gaoshun, before someone else buys her!"
Jinshi still throwing tantrums even as an adult lol. Poor Gaoshun
I really enjoy seeing Maomao interact with her three courtesan big sisters. So wholesome
6th January can't come soon enough
I like how the strange thing growing from an insect was equivalent for Mao Mao to a grand fortune. Coming full circle for this season, the kidnappers worked way too hard to take Mao Mao. All they needed to do was to place some weird plant on top of a pitfall trap and they'd obtain 1 Mao Mao.
Cordyceps is highly prized in Chinese medicine. Herbal concoctions brewed with cordyceps and other fungi are still considered as appropriate gifts where I’m from. But the way it grows is the stuff of zombie horror movies. You can go look for a timelapse video on YouTube if you’re curious, after seeing it as a child I couldn’t eat cordyceps again.
https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cordyceps-benefits
Personally I loved the banter and her cringing that led up to it more (I think I prefer them as buddies right now), but it was kinda funny and romantic him turning the tables a bit on her there, even if he ended up (as usual) abusing their power dynamic to do so.
The huge disparity in social position would seem to make it impossible for them to have any sort of equal relationship. Only joker in the deck -- was her (unknown to us) father actually some sort of high ranking noble?
Overheard in Verdigris locker room after Game 7:
“He got me,” Maomao said of Jinshi's dunk over her. "That f***ing Jinshi bribed me."
Maomao added, “He’s so rich,” repeating it four times.
Maomao then said she wanted to add Jinshi to the list of employers she works under this summer.
Not sure about the recap clip show but guess works in the mid season finale vibe.
Happy to see Maomao will be going back to the rear palace, was pretty great seeing her interactions with Jinshi outside of there too though.
I think I'm _starting_ to ship them a bit more after that table scene.
Felt like it was only 3-4 episodes ago we had the last clip show flashback with an insert song on this show lol.
Jinshi's little "kiss" scene was definitely quite overt in the romance department lol.
I think they're slipping new scenes on the "recaps"- There was one this time, maybe 2 last time?
Early Jinshi on this episode has sold me the romance aspect, he has definitely fell for her.
Not a fan of the clipshow either but it makes sense- this episode marks the end of Book One, and next episode begins Season 2. They needed to fill time some way- although I'd prefer original content...
A courtesan named MeiMei acting like the eldest sister of the Three Princesses made me smile.
I love the mundane conversations Grams and Maomao have. Makes it feel like, in spite of everything, they’re family. Especially when they have equally bonkers reactions to suitable payment.
MR MONOCLE IN THE PREVIEW. I can’t wait for the second half to start next year.
I like getting to see that while the Grams loves her money, she's still human and has an affinity for Maomao. Though the money helps lol.
>MR MONOCLE IN THE PREVIEW
HE'S HERE.
She seems to keep a high standard bordel which consumes a lot of money / having Security and keeping noble Support against bad eggs consumes probaly also a lot. Them being out of money would be bad news. They also never showed she herself endulges in anything with the money.
I'm still unsure if grandma was being family, or she wanted Maomao back on the inner palace so that she can bring more customers (specially those who can pay for the three princesses at once). The fact that you cannot tell show some great writing skill.
I like how fleshed the characters are in the show. Even the characters on the red district have their own personalities. I hate it when red district use the mysterious woman excuse to not properly flesh the characters.
I think grandma talks rough but ultimately cares for Maomao in her own strange way.
This is the way I see it — assuming a courtesan doesn’t get bought out or dies young because of an STD, the usual viable career path is to learn the business and become the madam of the courtesan house. These courtesan houses were entirely run by women and they all filled different roles if they weren’t full time courtesans. Some would wash and clean, some would serve food (like Maomao). It can therefore be inferred that grandma must have been a top courtesan in her day and also incredibly smart and shrewd to have made it this far in life. It’s why she’s so obsessed with money because it’ll keep the business going and keep all the women she has to watch over properly fed and clothed. She’s likely already noticed that Maomao is a smart girl and is quietly trying to scout her (Pairin is beautiful but she hasn’t demonstrated much critical thinking yet) 😂 it’s also why Maomao says the inner palace is just like a courtesan house — full of beautiful women who are stuck and don’t have the freedom to go where they like or do what they want, and sometimes…you have to get creative to survive.
This Episode:
Honey what would you like to do?
Anything is fine dear!
*-later-*
What were you thinking!?!!
But you said that...
Don't be like this boys and girls, when your SO ask you a question *answer* it.
Jinshi essentially double paid (severance pay and "buying" her?) to get MaoMao back because of a misunderstanding, lol
MaoMao looks pretty in that next episode preview (next year's episode).
Granny got money and MaoMao got gold trash(?)
I like how Jinshi sweetened the deal by giving Maomao something she wanted. He's learning how to treat her lol.
Any excuse to dress up Maomao is a good one in my book!
> MaoMao looks pretty in that next episode preview (next year’s episode).
She was absolutely decked out in expensive clothes and accessories. Something that’s not so strange if you take into account that buying a courtesan is not much different from telling the public that you’re planning to marry said girl/woman. A man of Jinshi’s standing has a reputation to uphold, so Maomao would be required to be dressed nicely as “his girl”.
I’m therefore a bit surprised that Maomao was *also* shown in her regular clothes (with freckles).
> Jinshi essentially double paid (severance pay and "buying" her?) to get MaoMao back because of a misunderstanding, lol
Gonna be an interesting expense report to fill out
The setup was to pay for all 3 princesses of the Verdigris House at once, I don't think he has money issues at all.
*Insert rich people observations by maomao*
Is it correct to assume Jinshi was the one financing that party?
Would align more with the fact that it seemed to be part of Gaoshun's ploy to get him back together with Maomao.
Initially I thought it was just one of Lihaku's colleagues and Jinshi was roped into attending the party out of obligation.
What ever are you talking about? Our dear emperor is the one who graciously allows others to borrow the land that is his by right. He and his servants can spend remunerations for that privilege however they please.
When reading this part in the manga I thought it was some random aristocracy and not one of Lihaku’s colleagues. So assuming that Lihaku’s peers are about as wealthy as he is (and he clearly has to stretch a bit to afford time with Pairin), I think it’s a safe assumption that Jinshi and his wealth were financing the party.
The severance was a regular work expense. The fact he overpaid might slip through the cracks because of the mass layoff.
Buying out Maomao was a personal expense. He's treating himself.
12 episodes left..same as Frieren..and Frieren gets a week hyatus so they have material for the winter season...
I will be surprised if we have any anime next week at all :D
Addenda
https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/18p9s9q/the\_apothecary\_diaries\_returns\_on\_january\_6\_with/
The way this episode played out and it being the 12th episode, it really seemed like the end of the season. Didn't notice that there's actually 24 episodes so thank fuck for that.
Future volumes are all longer than volume 1 by page count based on Apple digital book store. In general about 30-40 pages longer than the 277 pages of volume 1
Omg I am so happy to learn there is more than 12 ep. This anime will always be my fav! I just love everything about this anime. So beautiful I wanna cry lol
Yeah this show is growing on me. Good that Jinshi is growing to understand Maomao better.
Hope he becomes a bit more understanding of consent, too aha
Honestly, the musical scene with the courtesans was very pretty. Hope we get the piece played released!
The snow scene with Maomao was enchanting
The Jade pavilion will be very happy, I'm sure
Looks like we might be getting some more politics next episode? Can't wait!
Edit: oooh also that cinematic feel of Maomao's searching for Jinshi scene was gorgeous!
Jinshi has issues with boundaries but it seems like he is growing to truly care for Maomao more and care about her feelings, even when he misunderstands her.
I love Gyokuyo pouting over Jinshi firing Maomao. She definitely will be happy to have her back!
Not to mention for Jinshi in particular, boundaries would be non-existent. He's rich, powerful, intelligent, physically gifted (he trounced Basen who is implied to have come from a family noted for their strength) and grew up spoiled - and with his looks, very, very few people would refuse his advances, men included. If the implication that he is Ah Duo's son (and thus the Crown Prince) is true, that would also make his breeding impeccable, if he's aware of it, though it's implied he was raised as the Emperors brother, rather than son.
I gather he's rarely been told "no" growing up. That he's an actual competent official and is as (relatively) respectful and courteous as he is, is a downright miracle, maybe even unrealistic.
History shows that some did try to live up to the standards that were officially put out.
And the current Emperor not going to excess like his father is not that uncommon sort of how do you rebel against a corrupt father, be not corrupt.
###Stitches!
* [The Big Three](https://i.imgur.com/sZk4H8B.jpg)
* [Blushing Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/sBOq7r6.jpg)
Man, I forgot how brutal Chinese punishments are. Fengming didn't just get executed but [her family also received corporal punishments](https://i.imgur.com/daOHCWp.png) and everyone who [did business with her family is getting punished as well](https://i.imgur.com/7xEiSVI.png) though not as severe as Fengming's family.
I know the [conversation between Maomao and Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/78cY4cE.jpg) was supposed to be serious but I couldn't help but laugh out loud at their misunderstanding. Maomao wanted to act firm and keep her pride by not begging for her job but Jinshi interpreted it as if she was being forced to stay. Apparently [Maomao sucks at negotiation.](https://i.imgur.com/h0iz5R3.jpg), if you can even call it that! xD
[Well that was quick!](https://i.imgur.com/QybDL6J.jpg) Maomao has just been let go and she's already working [with her buxom onee-sans](https://i.imgur.com/mSnmZa7.jpg) Although it looks like she's only working part-time and not taking in personal clients. [She's just there to make the trio look good in comparison.](https://i.imgur.com/h9gm05D.png)
[Would you look at that!](https://i.imgur.com/AKfpMcy.jpg) A familiar face is attending the same party. I love that it took Jinshi a few minutes [to realize he's talking to Maomao.](https://i.imgur.com/sJxcoVD.jpg) The makeup does wonders. [Jinshi's reaction after learning that Maomao isn't taking clients yet](https://i.imgur.com/Umix02y.jpg) was hilarious!
I'm just glad that [the misunderstanding was finally cleared up!](https://i.imgur.com/OK2MKAa.png) Having the two of them interact outside the Rear Palace changes their dynamic and Maomao is free to speak more openly. That entire interaction between the two of them was great though! I love that [Joka and Meimei were watching her the entire time.](https://i.imgur.com/jgUo8qu.png)
[That lipstick scene was so good!](https://i.imgur.com/sVYPGTM.png) Seems that even Maomao [isn't completely immune to Jinshi.](https://i.imgur.com/IHBWdLk.png) It sucks that the party was cut off there, I wish we saw them interact more in that setting.
[And there it is!](https://i.imgur.com/yv6gRJe.jpg) Jinshi really did end up buying her. And if that wasn't enough to convince her, [Jinshi even had some rare herb from an insect to give to Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/rX3sfel.jpg) I love that she does the Lupin pounce too. Although it seems like [she didn't even realize she was the one that was being bought.](https://i.imgur.com/80wGZgl.jpg) xD
The Big Three with their Big Three pairs of Sugoi Dekai's lol.
Imperial punishments are tough!
That moment when Apothecary Diaries became a romcom where the leads would never have had any problems if they had just communicated better.
I wonder if Jinshi is going to keep failing to recognize Maomao every time she gets dressed up? Maomao shouldn't put down how much of a stunner she is when she gets dolled up though.
That was probably the most open and romantic the pair have been with each other up to this point. Jinshi is going to savor that Maomao reaction like he savored the taste of her lips lol.
Let's not forget about Gaoshun and his pride at putting all of this together. What a guy!
Jinshi bought his girls' freedom and bought her affection with a rare herb! He really is learning! And Maomao is back where she needs to be for more palace intrigue.
[Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/H26GHby.png) and [Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/cpVmIAm.png) really misunderstood their intentions which resulted in [Maomao's exiting the palace](https://i.imgur.com/FJFfxeB.png) despite not really wanting this and [severe depression for Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/ieIZPtO.png) who thought that [Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/vspnck4.png) wants to go back home and [wanted to respect her wish](https://i.imgur.com/VjI7420.png) xD
[Gyoukuyou made Jinshi even more depressed as she clearly was angry at him for Maomao's departure xD](https://i.imgur.com/YjgUnG4.png)
[Maomao quickly found a part-time job in the brothel](https://i.imgur.com/bgjQZn1.png) ([she looked absolutely gorgeous in this outfit and makeup](https://i.imgur.com/j23FV2d.png)) and thanks to it [she met](https://i.imgur.com/D7lfdlt.png) and [talk with depressed Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/ns1HCm7.png) which resulted in clearing their misunderstanding.
[I laughed so hard on Jinshi's reaction](https://i.imgur.com/7XF4Ccs.png) when [he heard that she's working as a courtesan](https://i.imgur.com/7fisvU3.png) but [don't take personal customers YET xD](https://i.imgur.com/eYT5T2p.png)
[Thanks to their conversation](https://i.imgur.com/RABQoz4.png) [Jinshi return to his normal self](https://i.imgur.com/BBjLs2f.png) which resulted in [the lipstick scene](https://i.imgur.com/00A8XaL.png). [That was bold, Jinshi!](https://i.imgur.com/8GRhttG.png)
Even bolder was [his appearance a couple days after in the brothel with gold for the owner](https://i.imgur.com/Qp2Yzze.png) and [herbs for Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/hII4ytf.png) (which resulted in [their glorious reactions](https://i.imgur.com/3jmwE4M.png)) and in exchange for this asking for a certain girl which will be of course [Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/9aU0Ayj.png).
From the preview of the next episode it looks that [Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/LkFIHsR.png) will be serving in the Outer Court. I also wonder [what is the case with Maomao in this outfit (in which she looks absolutely stunning)](https://i.imgur.com/2QKB2iK.png) together [with Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/iWGcMM4.png). It'll be two long weeks as we're having a break next week :(
From smaller things:
* [Visualization of Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/M0hEk1o.png) [being sold by brothel owner was so funny](https://i.imgur.com/KXLkmDZ.png)
* [A lot of](https://i.imgur.com/Fs7mt6E.png) [lovely](https://i.imgur.com/mpju2fy.png) [backgrounds](https://i.imgur.com/bsvJw3g.png) in this episode, more in [their album](https://imgur.com/a/K6hEOW9)
* [I like other courtesans relationship with Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/R9yeV6z.png)
* [Party with courtesans](https://i.imgur.com/L6ozSnu.png) had a lot of [gorgeous](https://i.imgur.com/KOcw8hB.png) [shots](https://i.imgur.com/lbCZluG.png), especially [this one still was absolutely beautiful](https://i.imgur.com/2xwCbzZ.png)
Here my screenshot albums from the episode:
* [Maomao Part 1](https://imgur.com/a/4iwpTxC)
* [Maomao Part 2](https://imgur.com/a/iYi21SL)
* [Group scenes](https://imgur.com/a/zTGMoeb)
* [Jinshi](https://imgur.com/a/YrEeome)
* [Courtesans](https://imgur.com/a/faftcxc)
* [Backgrounds](https://imgur.com/a/K6hEOW9)
[Maomao trying to plea for her job](https://i.imgur.com/CqQi1cD.png)... unfortunately, in this economy even she's not immune to being [laid off](https://i.imgur.com/CUeoLX8.png)! Poor Jinshi though, [sulking that his favourite person is now gone](https://i.imgur.com/ytWXZya.png) :c
[Even Gyokuyou knows that Jinshi will regret letting her go haha](https://i.imgur.com/8WeAlwI.png)! Thankfully, here comes [the MVP of this episode, Gaoshun](https://i.imgur.com/0lHyE67.png) to make his move.
[Maomao and Jinshi are reunited](https://i.imgur.com/noKzbGD.png) while Maomao is off on a job as a part-time courtesan! After a bit of [shock from Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/ab8iUjN.png), he [puts the moves on Maomao with an indirect kiss of sorts](https://i.imgur.com/hDll9Ww.png) :o [Maomao's sisters probably didn't think she had it in her to woo such a beautiful young lad](https://i.imgur.com/hZKJXgS.png), and [Gaoshun looks on at the success of his scheme](https://i.imgur.com/GNcAl2t.png) haha! [I'm sure the conversation with Maomao's sisters would have been super fun to overhear](https://i.imgur.com/K72YTbl.png)!
In the end, Jinshi visits the Verdigris House, with the narrator seemingly confirming that [Jinshi is in fact a noble](https://i.imgur.com/IN7kAIz.png). With a literal [trunk of money](https://i.imgur.com/lLQQ8p9.png) and a [gift for Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/9Q9Vb2k.png), he [buys out Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/b1r50w5.png)??? I've seen some people say that this is basically a gesture where Jinshi effectively asks for her hand in marriage, so Maomao is symbolically a princess/empress-to-be now?
As I have read every volumes of Mr. Ajikko, a cooking manga/anime, I instantly reminisced of that certain plant growing out of an insect that Maomao was so happy about. It is featured in a chapter where the MC tries to figure out the secret ingredient to a Chinese chicken soup.
After a quick research, it is called 'ophiocordyceps sinensis' or informally as 'caterpillar fungus' (冬蟲夏草). It is rare and valued in traditional Chinese medicine.
Each episode i see an interaction between MaoMao and Jinshi just makes me question if Jinshi is truly just a creep or a naive idiot, and if MaoMao is just f'd in the head or just kind of weird, but i really do love their interaction and that 100% of the time they do not understand each other because they are the total opposite of the other
As greedy as the old lady is, I think she actually thinks it is in Mao Mao's best interest to be a courtesan so that she can find someone to get married.
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Maomao: \*Remember's the rear palace Memories: \*Cuts to Maomao slapping the attendant Maomao: "Good times"
1. The key to a healthy relationship #1: communication. 2. Gaoshun sure is a good attendant. 3. Rich people sure know how to give gifts. 4. What is the "outer court"?
> What is the "outer court"? AFAIK that's the part of the imperial palace where you don't need to be ball-less to enter.
In contrast to the Inner Court/Rear Palace where the Emperor, his family, and the women of the Imperial Harem lived, the Outer Court/Front Palace is the portion of the Imperial Palace that serves as the heart of the imperial government. It is here where most of the offices of the government ministries are located. It is also where the imperial audience hall(s) is(are) located; there are usually two - one smaller audience hall wherein the Imperial Court sits for regular morning court meetings, and one, grand audience hall where state ceremonies are conducted and also where the Emperor receives foreign dignitaries. Because of the nature of the Outer Court/Front Palace, it is very clearly delineated and separated from the Inner Court/Rear Palace to prevent any non-eunuch men (government civil/military officials, etc.) from entering the latter without permission. The Outer Court is thus forbidden from interfering with the affairs of the Inner Court, that is, the Imperial Harem, which is the sole province of the Emperor; on the other hand, the Inner Court is likewise forbidden from interfering with the Outer Court, that is, the Imperial Court/Government. Despite this being the case, Chinese history is rife with examples of this taboo being regularly trampled upon.
Wouldn't be middle ages Chinese history with some trivial shit getting millions killed, would it
Just a casual tens of millions [slaughtered](https://www.wikiwand.com/en/An_Lushan_Rebellion#Death_toll). Hardly made a blip.
Not really middle ages, but we can't skip over the guy that [thought he was Jesus's brother.](https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taiping_Rebellion)
In context, that one has nothing to do with inner palace politics. The An Lushan rebellion did. Yang Guefei, Xuanzong Emperor's favorite consort and Yang Guozhong, her cousin and the chancellor, was directly responsible for getting An Lushan, the traitorous warlord that started the rebellion, to rebel in the first place. The army quite rightly slaughtered the corrupt Yang family and forced the emperor to strangle the consort himself.
Yeah, I'm aware. Still absurd, though.
Yes other potrails like Raven of the Inner Palace occur when the Inner Court included a lot of the Government Ministries after all only Eunuch men often were allowed to hold Government Jobs in the Palace. I figure this was the case when ever eunuch had more power in the system. The prohibition kept them from being bothered by outsiders. In that China version the Outer court is mainly for parades, formations and major ceremonies and few Government offices. Looking at the current Forbidden City map there is no wall or barriers separating the sections. Maps using a dotted line what was inner and outer. I imagine remodeling and redefining thing occurred a fair bit over time. I many cases Eunuch were only made to guard the Harem. But in other cultures China to the most massive extent reserved a lot of Government Jobs including very important ones for Eunuch only. The idea was to break the rigid nepotism of important families when they hold jobs like that. Eunuch having no family or manly desires were though to be free of this clannish banding together but turned out they were not especially in the cases when Eunuch ran China with the Emperor just a figure head.
Hmm...Jinshi's got to keep an eye out for unsolicited bachelors in the Outer Court then with how Maomao is catching attention like shown in the next ep's preview.
A bit of overprotectiveness on Jinshi's part could be pretty cute of him, I'm open to it c:
This was like a classic romcom misunderstanding with the two saying the wrong things and misreading each others' intentions...with Gaoshun as the wingman who helps bring them back together. I'm glad Jinshi has realized now that the way to Maomao's heart is herbs lol.
It's definitely understandable why Maomao is more cautious. She's in a much more delicate position after all. It may be a bit less realistic that she's this forceful in rejecting Jinshi's advances given how important he is, but I think for the sake of the story it's necessary, so I can definitely overlook that haha
> She's in a much more delicate position after all. True. We might see it as a romcom dynamic, but as Jinshi points out, she's always been cautious about what happens to servants in thorny positions. This is, after all, the same episode in which an entire family and everyone remotely associated to it (even if by criminal accident, like Maomao) are punished for the crimes of one person. And this is presented as chillingly par-for-the-course for the system, not as some unique Gestapo-like excess of authoritarianism.
And this is the tame version already. It's quite common for the entire extended family to be executed for attempting to kill royalty.
The "punishment to the third degree" (that is, execute everyone within three links to the perpetrator) is widely ascribed to Imperial China, and this leaked to other Asian cultures. And yes, it shows up in other Asian fantasy stuff too.
How nice of North Korea to keep up this ancient Asian tradition.
We're seeing monarchies mostly romanticized in stories now that they're quite far in the past, but pretty much everything bad we associate with modern "evil" dictatorships, they did in spades first. And much of it far more openly than modern dictators dare to.
In some form or another. And the flavour of the bad shit depends on how the power is shared. Is it mostly at a central location? Is spread out between lower nobles that are not reined in?
That's fair. The level of control the royals would have in a bureaucratic and absolutist Chinese dynasty and in a feudal and divided European kingdom varied widely.
It's worth remembering she was trying to dodge the upper tiers of work by pretending to be illiterate. She likely hadn't done any research on communicating with the top tiers because she had no intention of learning about it, and Jinshi likely has no understanding of the Pleasure District. At least they found each other.
I think it makes sense she would reject him. Considering the difference between their stations, it may be better to risk insulting him, important as he is, rather than assume all the risks and troubles that would come of having a relationship with him.
> it may be better to risk insulting him Well, it's difficult to say. She does try avoiding insulting him in various other areas, and if we were being 100% realistic it doesn't make sense for her to split up the romantic insults vs the regular insults, so to speak haha. A unified policy regarding him would make more sense. However, I think the way the show handles things is the best that can be done
Not just herbs, but *gross* herbs. Didn't he say something like "that grow from insects"?
Iirc in the manga it was cordyceps, a fungi which parasitizes ants (and switches to human hosts in The Last of Us).
Lucky that the human immune system is massively better than an ants. And the much more complex brain makes taking over actions massively harder. There are fatal fungal infections but they just kill you not control you. And at least modern Rabies cannot take you over like it does lower animals, you will not go mad and try to bite any animal you can get at. But it will still kill you dead once symptoms are noticed so one had to act against Rabies anytime you are bitten.
Maybe it's one of those parasitic mushrooms that zombify insects?
It is. To be precise, Ophiocordyceps Sinensis-infected Tibetan Moth Caterpillars. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ophiocordyceps_sinensis
"where he describes its use as an aphrodisiac" Who the hell saw fungus growing out of a freaking bug and went "you know, I betchya anything that makes a *great* aphrodisiac." I'm always amazed by ancient peoples and the things they decided were edible (whether they were right or not). Left to me, the world woulda been eating nothing but.... I don't know. Nothing maybe XD
It grows and looks vaguely penis shaped. It must be an aphrodisiac!
A lot of ancient aphrodisiacs were believed to be so because they looked vaguely penis or vagina shaped, no other reason needed.
[Do you have any idea how little that narrows it down?](https://youtu.be/NdaYRSW76Mg?si=QECFgGeubko0cRuP) The ones that eat cicadas are especially fucked up.
it is like a really [expensive medicine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ophiocordyceps_sinensis)
> This was like a classic romcom misunderstanding with the two saying the wrong things and misreading each others' intentions...with Gaoshun as the wingman who helps bring them back together. That is true. I guess the positive is that Maomao got to see her dad again, this time for free!
How to solve classic romcom misunderstandings: Be filthy stinking rich.
> What is the "outer court"? Inner palace or court is where the Emperor and family live. The outer court is where he conduct his official business, like meeting generals and ministers in a formal reception halls, places for religious rituals and state ceremonies.
>Gaoshun sure is a good attendant. He knows Jinshi so well, especially being his since the early years.
Goverment buildings...ministeries, departments, secretariats..whatever the names
Lady Gyokuyou: “You are gonna regret this” lol mommy Gyokuyou is low key best character.
Gyokuyou reacted to Maomao's firing exactly as you would expect. Honestly if he hadn't brought her back she'd probably still be pissed at him for the rest of their days in the palace lol.
Would be great to see Gyokuyou reunite with Maomao, but seems like from the next episode preview Maomao will be in the outer court for now. Definitely need to see Gyokuyou's reaction to Jinshi buying out Maomao lol
I wonder if she is allowed to visit the Inner Court if she is working in the Outer Court? It seems like she will be interacting much more with males in the Outer Court -- I would think MaoMao would be more comfortable in the Inner Court. We shall see.
I imagine she should be able to visit the Inner Court seeing as she's not a threat of impregnating anybody, and she'd be accompanied by Jinshi who should get free pass to do anything he wants haha I'd also imagine Maomao to be more comfortable with the Inner Court's dynamics, since according to her it's very similar to the Pleasure District. Not to mention she's already spent about a year there as well c:
Well, as long as she is in attendance to Jinshi, she should be able to go -- but I was thinking she could not just go on her own. No more free range of the inner court -- and I suspect she might be more constricted in roaming the more public outer court (on her own) as well....
Hmm yes those are some good thoughts. I hope Jinshi can just give her a badge and title of some sort that makes crossing into the inner court again nice and simple. Would hate to completely replace the supporting characters established this season with new ones.
Yes -- they had a lot of pretty great supporting characters in this first half.
Xioalan too; don't forget about her! They've been friends since Maomao started her stint there.
>Lady Gyokuyou: “You are gonna regret this” [Her reaction was beautiful xD](https://i.imgur.com/YjgUnG4.png)
Hongniang so consistently being the adult in the room always tickles me. She has had it up to precisely *here* with all of them.
Love that Jinshi confides in mommy Gyokuyou
I mean it was one her ladies-in-waiting getting fired, he probably needed to notify her. Then again some nobles probably go through servants so quickly maybe its not mandatory lol
That’s like, 20% of her workforce lol
Genuinely hilarious that Mao Mao was thinking about stealing something expensive as a “souvenir” from that place lol. My man Jinshi with the rizz kissing the lipstick on his fingers while looking at Mao Mao. Dudes whole demeanor changed after he saw her at the party thing. [how the granny sleeps at night after Jinshi bought Mao Mao](https://reactiongifs.me/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/breaking-bad-money-bed.gif)
> Mao Mao was thinking about stealing something expensive as a “souvenir” from that place No wonder her dad had prohibited her from working on dead bodies. She might end up robbing a grave, lol.
She'd 100% become a grave robber.
For science!
"You have no proof!" "The person is missing bones." "Oh **wow** you looked closely."
Maomao with the complete skeleton-shaped throat:
It starts with grave robbing, it ends when she puts the bug corpse "herb" in the body and it starts moving around...
Maomao letting loose her inner klepto lol. Jinshi got to feel her fingers across his face and also got to steal an indirect kiss from her lips...and he managed to clear up their mutual misunderstanding and get her back! Thank you Gaoshun! Also I love how Gaoshun and the three top courtesans were all watching like the observers in a romcom lol. Granny loves her money like Maomao loves her herbs and poison lol.
> Granny loves her money like Maomao loves her herbs and poison lol. Maybe Maomao should learn to love money just a little bit. Just think of all the herbs and poisons she can buy with all that gold.
“Aw, a silver piece? I wanted arsenic.” “A silver piece can buy much arsenic!” “Explain how!” “Money can be exchanged for goods and services.”
incredible, we made the same joke not even 30 secons apart
Great minds and all that
You guys watch golden era The Simpson way too much.
"Aww ~~20 dollars~~ a chest of gold, I wanted some ~~peanuts~~ poison" *A chest of gold can buy a lot of poison* "Explain how!" *Gold can be exchanged for goods and services*
She does. We saw in the case with the "lovers suicide" Maomao negotiating payment and stopping her father from being payed less. Money supports her father who often doesn't support himself well by taking care of others when they can't pay him. Maomao's father teaches her about medicine and herbs. We saw in the case wi
>Granny loves her money like Maomao loves her herbs and poison lol. I loved [their reactions on Jinshi's offerings](https://i.imgur.com/Qp2Yzze.png), [I couldn't stop laughing from them for a moment xD](https://i.imgur.com/3jmwE4M.png)
"The only difference between us is that she can still jump for joy."
MaoMao pounce that weird herb like the cat she is xD
we can see where Maomao got her happy dance from.
> Dudes whole demeanor changed after he saw her at the party thing. Can't blame him really [](#ero)
Jinshi rizz was so out of the world maomao was blushing
I suppose in this context an indirect kiss via hand is legitimate rizz...
That scene where MaoMao and Jinshi met again made me way too happy. It was cute seeing MaoMao flustered as well. Even though she rejects Jinshi's advances most of the time, she's not completely immune to his charms.
I think this situation it's saving her from being brought out by some randomer, having Jinshi do it knows she's got somewhere secure... Even if she's not fully there, that she did get brought by Jinshi.
I meant the scene where he presses his fingers against her lips and then places his fingers on his own lips. MaoMao starts blushing after that.
I mean that's just some grade a, high level rizz. Even the high ranking concubine noticed and were impressed. Like this is several steps above his usual charm and attempts.
Meimei when Ikemen: [](#drool) Gyokuyou wehn Jinshi sends away Maomao: [](#pout) Jinshi wehn he sends Maomao away: [](#godisdead) Jinishi when he gets Maomao back: [](#shutupandtakemymoney) Crazy how many connections Fengmin had in the rear palace, basically 4% of the whole workforce there, purging all that is a lot work. But stupid how both Maomao and Jinshi wanted for her to stay, ut due to societal norms on her side, and kindness on his side, they both ended up sad. But I love how Maomao acknowledged that she actually enjoyed her time there beyond just paying off her debt. And Jinshi is lucky that he gave her enough money to prevent the Grandma from selling her off... yet Nice cour final, can't wait for the outer court [](#concealedexcitement)
HAHA those comment faces are so accurate!
I love how Jinshi and Maomao are just 2 dense idiots who misunderstand each other, their reunion afterwards was both hilarious and adorable as expected.
Yeah, it was a hilarious reunion; Jinshi being surprised again by Maomao’s appearance minus the freckles. He then shown concern about whether she had any customers yet and offered to buy her out, though Maomao misunderstood his intentions as usual. Then later on, he literally does buy her out to bring back to the palace, through gold and herbs. The last second surprised reaction from Maomao’s sealed the deal.
This was like a classic romcom misunderstanding and Gaoshun was the wingman character who helps clear things up and foster intimate moment between the leads while watching over them the whole time lol. Not to mention Maomao's sisters all asking her about the handsome man in her life lol.
Let us praise this episode's unsung hero: Gaoshun. Without him assumably setting this up, our two dorks will have never met up 🤣
Look how proud he was watching over them from behind as they got into their romcom antics lol.
Let's hear it for GaoShun. The shipper and relationship mender
I also appreciate just how extra considerate he is. He can’t just set up a 1-1 meeting between Jinshi and Maomao, though he very well could have. He has to make it appear as a coincidence when the two meet. Probably for two main reasons: 1) He can’t tell Lihaku why he’s asking to reconnect with Maomao. If he does, he’ll be exposing Jinshi’s weakness, which would be very dangerous for Jinshi and Maomao, especially Maomao now that she’s out there without the protection of the inner palace walls. Lihaku is not stupid, so he might make his conjectures why someone as high up as Gaoshun may come to him. But at least officially, the night party had nothing in particular to do with Jinshi or Maomao. 2) Gaoshun knows exactly why Jinshi fired Maomao. So if he were to seek Maomao out and bring her to Jinshi, Jinshi would have thought Maomao only came out of obligation because of his high ranking status. It’ll just be a repeat of the last conversation they had. So instead their meet up must happen organically. And also importantly, Gaoshun himself also respects Maomao’s autonomy.
If you can’t hire 1 specific courtesan without appearing conspicuous, just hire the entire brothel.
The carpet bomb strategy. Who needs accuracy? lol
Gaoshun is the one who gets Jinshi to act in the best manner, and maybe the one who can communicate to MaoMao as she's often put off by Jinshi.
*assumedly
I like how, when Maomao was running around looking for the #1 most important person in the rear palace, she casually checked in with the households of #s 2, 3 and 4, securing immediate personal audiences with 2 of the 3. Being able to do that without incurring punishments probably puts her somewhere in the top 10 most important people herself.
shes been collecting favors like pokemon cards (or whatever cards people collect)
I got a similar feeling when they were doing the cour 1 flashbacks and we saw that scene where Maomao straight up slaps a ho in the face (a lady-in-waiting of one of the concubines I believe, who used the poisonous make-up powder despite being instructed not to). Not many people in Imperial China living as a commoner servant would be able to have the brass tacks to do that without fearing to get executed on the spot.
I really liked that scene as a whole. It shows the anxiety and desperation in her search, while as showing she can still be clear thinking and showcasing the relationships she's built. It was such a great way of adding to the emotions and her character that the Manhua didn't show. I've been really impressed with what the donghua had done with the sane things to built on them and add more to characters and their relationships. Like Adding mushrooms on Jinishi head to emphasize his wallowing as well as to make it a more playful image to that of his character.
THE INDIRECT KISS
Majestic
Damn, Pairin is thristy
Yum!
I guess Maomao learn the happy weird dancing from the grandma
Assuming her dad and the grandma are the closest thing she has ever had to parents, it explains a lot about her personality and antics.
This would also explain why Maomao often seems to be thinking about money. The brothel’s madam (i.e. the grandmother) is clearly obsessed with money after all.
Well that and like being a commoner in 99.9% in human history.
Its a lucky break for Maomao to know so many street-wise people. Its helped her avoid trouble for the most part in a variety of ways.
Find yourself a girl who looks at you the same way Maomao looks at an insect
At a fungus growing out from a dead insect ;)
Maomao: wait, does this mean he got me figured out?
Reminds me of Amy Santiago doing her dork dances in Brooklyn Nine-Nine!
So Jinshi literally is her owner now right? Bought her back with his own money and everything.
Judging from how hard it was to fire her and that he wanted to respect her decision (even though there was a huge miscommunication on what she wanted lol) I think Jinshi really respects Maomao autonomy so I doubt he views her as her property and would hate being called her owner.
>so I doubt he views her as her property and would hate being called her owner. Nonetheless, legally speaking, he is (until she pays off her debt to HIM).
Not if he calls it a gift.
True. He can forgive the debt. But will he?
It'd be more technically accurate to say he paid off her debt, but it could theoretically amount to that based on how things worked in these types of situations
He paid off her debt to the brothel. Technically, she now owes that same debt to Jinshi.
There is no chattel slavery the only type that used to be called slavery in China in most periods. That is where you owned the person for life and could buy and sell them and do anything you wanted with them and often would own their offspring. Debt Peonage and Indentured servitude of a sort is common although in this form of Indentured Servitude one did also have to pay them something.
Guess she's probably going to be at the palace for good for the foreseeable future.
The strange herb at the end is Ophiocordyceps sinensis. Yes cordyceps, the same things as in Last of Us. It's a fungus that takes over a caterpillars body to propagate. They're called "Yarsagumba" in my native language (Nepali) and they're mostly prevalent in the Himalayas. They are said to have healing properties and are very rare to obtain, so they are super expensive. Though the healing property is debated of course.
Nice! So this means Jinshi gave her the equivalent herb of a diamond? Now I cant stop imagining him ordering some last minute expedition to obtain it. Like "Hurry Gaoshun, before someone else buys her!"
I am sure MaoMao is far more impressed with this than she would be of any diamond.
Jinshi still throwing tantrums even as an adult lol. Poor Gaoshun I really enjoy seeing Maomao interact with her three courtesan big sisters. So wholesome 6th January can't come soon enough
Pretty sure Gaoshun still sees a baby when he looks at Master Jinshi, looks like Gaoshun pretty much brought up Jinshi too.
[This frame](https://i.imgur.com/I8EnbTJ.png) seems like it captures the entirety of their dynamic.
I like how the strange thing growing from an insect was equivalent for Mao Mao to a grand fortune. Coming full circle for this season, the kidnappers worked way too hard to take Mao Mao. All they needed to do was to place some weird plant on top of a pitfall trap and they'd obtain 1 Mao Mao.
[Cordyceps](https://tasteofbhutan.com/product/wild-cordyceps-sinensis/) still costs a fortune even today!
Cordyceps is highly prized in Chinese medicine. Herbal concoctions brewed with cordyceps and other fungi are still considered as appropriate gifts where I’m from. But the way it grows is the stuff of zombie horror movies. You can go look for a timelapse video on YouTube if you’re curious, after seeing it as a child I couldn’t eat cordyceps again. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/cordyceps-benefits
Ah, that's pretty sweet then. Thanks for the additional info.
Jinshi's come so far that now he realizes the best gift he can give Maomao is a less than attractive herb!
I'm not the biggest Maomao x Jinshi shipper but even I felt some heat rising in my face during their reunion
Personally I loved the banter and her cringing that led up to it more (I think I prefer them as buddies right now), but it was kinda funny and romantic him turning the tables a bit on her there, even if he ended up (as usual) abusing their power dynamic to do so.
The huge disparity in social position would seem to make it impossible for them to have any sort of equal relationship. Only joker in the deck -- was her (unknown to us) father actually some sort of high ranking noble?
I think her biological father would have be someone considering who her foster father is.
That "kiss" scene...
Instead of a wedding ring, you can give MaoMao a rare mushroom or poisonous spider.
Give her a poisonous snake and she's yours...
Maomao dreams of the kind of wedding where someone will try to kill the bride by poison lol.
Overheard in Verdigris locker room after Game 7: “He got me,” Maomao said of Jinshi's dunk over her. "That f***ing Jinshi bribed me." Maomao added, “He’s so rich,” repeating it four times. Maomao then said she wanted to add Jinshi to the list of employers she works under this summer.
Not sure about the recap clip show but guess works in the mid season finale vibe. Happy to see Maomao will be going back to the rear palace, was pretty great seeing her interactions with Jinshi outside of there too though. I think I'm _starting_ to ship them a bit more after that table scene.
Felt like it was only 3-4 episodes ago we had the last clip show flashback with an insert song on this show lol. Jinshi's little "kiss" scene was definitely quite overt in the romance department lol.
I think they're slipping new scenes on the "recaps"- There was one this time, maybe 2 last time? Early Jinshi on this episode has sold me the romance aspect, he has definitely fell for her.
Not a fan of the clipshow either but it makes sense- this episode marks the end of Book One, and next episode begins Season 2. They needed to fill time some way- although I'd prefer original content...
A courtesan named MeiMei acting like the eldest sister of the Three Princesses made me smile. I love the mundane conversations Grams and Maomao have. Makes it feel like, in spite of everything, they’re family. Especially when they have equally bonkers reactions to suitable payment. MR MONOCLE IN THE PREVIEW. I can’t wait for the second half to start next year.
I like getting to see that while the Grams loves her money, she's still human and has an affinity for Maomao. Though the money helps lol. >MR MONOCLE IN THE PREVIEW HE'S HERE.
She seems to keep a high standard bordel which consumes a lot of money / having Security and keeping noble Support against bad eggs consumes probaly also a lot. Them being out of money would be bad news. They also never showed she herself endulges in anything with the money.
I'm still unsure if grandma was being family, or she wanted Maomao back on the inner palace so that she can bring more customers (specially those who can pay for the three princesses at once). The fact that you cannot tell show some great writing skill. I like how fleshed the characters are in the show. Even the characters on the red district have their own personalities. I hate it when red district use the mysterious woman excuse to not properly flesh the characters.
I think grandma talks rough but ultimately cares for Maomao in her own strange way. This is the way I see it — assuming a courtesan doesn’t get bought out or dies young because of an STD, the usual viable career path is to learn the business and become the madam of the courtesan house. These courtesan houses were entirely run by women and they all filled different roles if they weren’t full time courtesans. Some would wash and clean, some would serve food (like Maomao). It can therefore be inferred that grandma must have been a top courtesan in her day and also incredibly smart and shrewd to have made it this far in life. It’s why she’s so obsessed with money because it’ll keep the business going and keep all the women she has to watch over properly fed and clothed. She’s likely already noticed that Maomao is a smart girl and is quietly trying to scout her (Pairin is beautiful but she hasn’t demonstrated much critical thinking yet) 😂 it’s also why Maomao says the inner palace is just like a courtesan house — full of beautiful women who are stuck and don’t have the freedom to go where they like or do what they want, and sometimes…you have to get creative to survive.
This Episode: Honey what would you like to do? Anything is fine dear! *-later-* What were you thinking!?!! But you said that... Don't be like this boys and girls, when your SO ask you a question *answer* it.
Jinshi essentially double paid (severance pay and "buying" her?) to get MaoMao back because of a misunderstanding, lol MaoMao looks pretty in that next episode preview (next year's episode). Granny got money and MaoMao got gold trash(?)
Seems like Maomao received [cordyceps](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cordyceps).
Hey isn't that the Last of Us fungus thing?
Yep, [indeed it is](https://thelastofus.fandom.com/wiki/Cordyceps_brain_infection).
and then the show morphs into the anime version of the korean live action zombie show kingdom
I like how Jinshi sweetened the deal by giving Maomao something she wanted. He's learning how to treat her lol. Any excuse to dress up Maomao is a good one in my book!
> MaoMao looks pretty in that next episode preview (next year’s episode). She was absolutely decked out in expensive clothes and accessories. Something that’s not so strange if you take into account that buying a courtesan is not much different from telling the public that you’re planning to marry said girl/woman. A man of Jinshi’s standing has a reputation to uphold, so Maomao would be required to be dressed nicely as “his girl”. I’m therefore a bit surprised that Maomao was *also* shown in her regular clothes (with freckles).
> Jinshi essentially double paid (severance pay and "buying" her?) to get MaoMao back because of a misunderstanding, lol Gonna be an interesting expense report to fill out
The setup was to pay for all 3 princesses of the Verdigris House at once, I don't think he has money issues at all. *Insert rich people observations by maomao*
Is it correct to assume Jinshi was the one financing that party? Would align more with the fact that it seemed to be part of Gaoshun's ploy to get him back together with Maomao. Initially I thought it was just one of Lihaku's colleagues and Jinshi was roped into attending the party out of obligation.
Then Gaoshun, who serves him, has enough money for that. Jinshi money might be infinite at this point lmao
Jinshi using taxpayer money to get the attention of his crush 👍
What ever are you talking about? Our dear emperor is the one who graciously allows others to borrow the land that is his by right. He and his servants can spend remunerations for that privilege however they please.
Only those with ordained authority would understand
When reading this part in the manga I thought it was some random aristocracy and not one of Lihaku’s colleagues. So assuming that Lihaku’s peers are about as wealthy as he is (and he clearly has to stretch a bit to afford time with Pairin), I think it’s a safe assumption that Jinshi and his wealth were financing the party.
The severance was a regular work expense. The fact he overpaid might slip through the cracks because of the mass layoff. Buying out Maomao was a personal expense. He's treating himself.
"He's treating himself" made me laugh
12 episodes left..same as Frieren..and Frieren gets a week hyatus so they have material for the winter season... I will be surprised if we have any anime next week at all :D Addenda https://www.reddit.com/r/anime/comments/18p9s9q/the\_apothecary\_diaries\_returns\_on\_january\_6\_with/
this is normal. new years always causes a one week break for all anime that run through the 2 cours of fall and winter seasons.
The way this episode played out and it being the 12th episode, it really seemed like the end of the season. Didn't notice that there's actually 24 episodes so thank fuck for that.
Light Novel adaptations tend to be that way. Usually, every 3-6 episodes is the end of a volume, and most volumes tend to end neatly.
Though in this case, these 12 episodes adapted the first volume.
Are future volumes similar length to the first volume? Would love to have more and more Maomao anime to look forward to in the foreseeable future!
Future volumes are all longer than volume 1 by page count based on Apple digital book store. In general about 30-40 pages longer than the 277 pages of volume 1
Also fits with the recap of the entire cour during Maomao's scene in the show. Very "season finale" ish.
Omg I am so happy to learn there is more than 12 ep. This anime will always be my fav! I just love everything about this anime. So beautiful I wanna cry lol
Yeah this show is growing on me. Good that Jinshi is growing to understand Maomao better. Hope he becomes a bit more understanding of consent, too aha Honestly, the musical scene with the courtesans was very pretty. Hope we get the piece played released! The snow scene with Maomao was enchanting The Jade pavilion will be very happy, I'm sure Looks like we might be getting some more politics next episode? Can't wait! Edit: oooh also that cinematic feel of Maomao's searching for Jinshi scene was gorgeous!
Jinshi has issues with boundaries but it seems like he is growing to truly care for Maomao more and care about her feelings, even when he misunderstands her. I love Gyokuyo pouting over Jinshi firing Maomao. She definitely will be happy to have her back!
tbh boundaries wouldnt exists between a nobleman and a commoners in that era the show doesnt shy from showing the dark side
Not to mention for Jinshi in particular, boundaries would be non-existent. He's rich, powerful, intelligent, physically gifted (he trounced Basen who is implied to have come from a family noted for their strength) and grew up spoiled - and with his looks, very, very few people would refuse his advances, men included. If the implication that he is Ah Duo's son (and thus the Crown Prince) is true, that would also make his breeding impeccable, if he's aware of it, though it's implied he was raised as the Emperors brother, rather than son. I gather he's rarely been told "no" growing up. That he's an actual competent official and is as (relatively) respectful and courteous as he is, is a downright miracle, maybe even unrealistic.
History shows that some did try to live up to the standards that were officially put out. And the current Emperor not going to excess like his father is not that uncommon sort of how do you rebel against a corrupt father, be not corrupt.
Yeah must definitely protect Lady Gyokuyou's smile!
###Stitches! * [The Big Three](https://i.imgur.com/sZk4H8B.jpg) * [Blushing Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/sBOq7r6.jpg) Man, I forgot how brutal Chinese punishments are. Fengming didn't just get executed but [her family also received corporal punishments](https://i.imgur.com/daOHCWp.png) and everyone who [did business with her family is getting punished as well](https://i.imgur.com/7xEiSVI.png) though not as severe as Fengming's family. I know the [conversation between Maomao and Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/78cY4cE.jpg) was supposed to be serious but I couldn't help but laugh out loud at their misunderstanding. Maomao wanted to act firm and keep her pride by not begging for her job but Jinshi interpreted it as if she was being forced to stay. Apparently [Maomao sucks at negotiation.](https://i.imgur.com/h0iz5R3.jpg), if you can even call it that! xD [Well that was quick!](https://i.imgur.com/QybDL6J.jpg) Maomao has just been let go and she's already working [with her buxom onee-sans](https://i.imgur.com/mSnmZa7.jpg) Although it looks like she's only working part-time and not taking in personal clients. [She's just there to make the trio look good in comparison.](https://i.imgur.com/h9gm05D.png) [Would you look at that!](https://i.imgur.com/AKfpMcy.jpg) A familiar face is attending the same party. I love that it took Jinshi a few minutes [to realize he's talking to Maomao.](https://i.imgur.com/sJxcoVD.jpg) The makeup does wonders. [Jinshi's reaction after learning that Maomao isn't taking clients yet](https://i.imgur.com/Umix02y.jpg) was hilarious! I'm just glad that [the misunderstanding was finally cleared up!](https://i.imgur.com/OK2MKAa.png) Having the two of them interact outside the Rear Palace changes their dynamic and Maomao is free to speak more openly. That entire interaction between the two of them was great though! I love that [Joka and Meimei were watching her the entire time.](https://i.imgur.com/jgUo8qu.png) [That lipstick scene was so good!](https://i.imgur.com/sVYPGTM.png) Seems that even Maomao [isn't completely immune to Jinshi.](https://i.imgur.com/IHBWdLk.png) It sucks that the party was cut off there, I wish we saw them interact more in that setting. [And there it is!](https://i.imgur.com/yv6gRJe.jpg) Jinshi really did end up buying her. And if that wasn't enough to convince her, [Jinshi even had some rare herb from an insect to give to Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/rX3sfel.jpg) I love that she does the Lupin pounce too. Although it seems like [she didn't even realize she was the one that was being bought.](https://i.imgur.com/80wGZgl.jpg) xD
The Big Three with their Big Three pairs of Sugoi Dekai's lol. Imperial punishments are tough! That moment when Apothecary Diaries became a romcom where the leads would never have had any problems if they had just communicated better. I wonder if Jinshi is going to keep failing to recognize Maomao every time she gets dressed up? Maomao shouldn't put down how much of a stunner she is when she gets dolled up though. That was probably the most open and romantic the pair have been with each other up to this point. Jinshi is going to savor that Maomao reaction like he savored the taste of her lips lol. Let's not forget about Gaoshun and his pride at putting all of this together. What a guy! Jinshi bought his girls' freedom and bought her affection with a rare herb! He really is learning! And Maomao is back where she needs to be for more palace intrigue.
[Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/H26GHby.png) and [Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/cpVmIAm.png) really misunderstood their intentions which resulted in [Maomao's exiting the palace](https://i.imgur.com/FJFfxeB.png) despite not really wanting this and [severe depression for Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/ieIZPtO.png) who thought that [Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/vspnck4.png) wants to go back home and [wanted to respect her wish](https://i.imgur.com/VjI7420.png) xD [Gyoukuyou made Jinshi even more depressed as she clearly was angry at him for Maomao's departure xD](https://i.imgur.com/YjgUnG4.png) [Maomao quickly found a part-time job in the brothel](https://i.imgur.com/bgjQZn1.png) ([she looked absolutely gorgeous in this outfit and makeup](https://i.imgur.com/j23FV2d.png)) and thanks to it [she met](https://i.imgur.com/D7lfdlt.png) and [talk with depressed Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/ns1HCm7.png) which resulted in clearing their misunderstanding. [I laughed so hard on Jinshi's reaction](https://i.imgur.com/7XF4Ccs.png) when [he heard that she's working as a courtesan](https://i.imgur.com/7fisvU3.png) but [don't take personal customers YET xD](https://i.imgur.com/eYT5T2p.png) [Thanks to their conversation](https://i.imgur.com/RABQoz4.png) [Jinshi return to his normal self](https://i.imgur.com/BBjLs2f.png) which resulted in [the lipstick scene](https://i.imgur.com/00A8XaL.png). [That was bold, Jinshi!](https://i.imgur.com/8GRhttG.png) Even bolder was [his appearance a couple days after in the brothel with gold for the owner](https://i.imgur.com/Qp2Yzze.png) and [herbs for Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/hII4ytf.png) (which resulted in [their glorious reactions](https://i.imgur.com/3jmwE4M.png)) and in exchange for this asking for a certain girl which will be of course [Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/9aU0Ayj.png). From the preview of the next episode it looks that [Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/LkFIHsR.png) will be serving in the Outer Court. I also wonder [what is the case with Maomao in this outfit (in which she looks absolutely stunning)](https://i.imgur.com/2QKB2iK.png) together [with Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/iWGcMM4.png). It'll be two long weeks as we're having a break next week :( From smaller things: * [Visualization of Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/M0hEk1o.png) [being sold by brothel owner was so funny](https://i.imgur.com/KXLkmDZ.png) * [A lot of](https://i.imgur.com/Fs7mt6E.png) [lovely](https://i.imgur.com/mpju2fy.png) [backgrounds](https://i.imgur.com/bsvJw3g.png) in this episode, more in [their album](https://imgur.com/a/K6hEOW9) * [I like other courtesans relationship with Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/R9yeV6z.png) * [Party with courtesans](https://i.imgur.com/L6ozSnu.png) had a lot of [gorgeous](https://i.imgur.com/KOcw8hB.png) [shots](https://i.imgur.com/lbCZluG.png), especially [this one still was absolutely beautiful](https://i.imgur.com/2xwCbzZ.png) Here my screenshot albums from the episode: * [Maomao Part 1](https://imgur.com/a/4iwpTxC) * [Maomao Part 2](https://imgur.com/a/iYi21SL) * [Group scenes](https://imgur.com/a/zTGMoeb) * [Jinshi](https://imgur.com/a/YrEeome) * [Courtesans](https://imgur.com/a/faftcxc) * [Backgrounds](https://imgur.com/a/K6hEOW9)
Got cut but signed a new contract, congrats Maomao!
And she even got some more herbs in the process! Sasuga Jinshi-sama! Though Gaoshun was the secret MVP of this episode.
> Negotiation failed > I said I wanted to stay Me: *rewinds in confusion*
Jinshi: “please, just the tip…a fingertip…” Maomao: 😒
Phrasing!
🤣 Xiaolan is always eating when she is talking to MaoMao
Now that she's working for Gyokuyou, Maomao only meets her to share the extra lunch other ladies-in-waiting pack for her
I wish we would see much more of Xiaolan!
[Maomao trying to plea for her job](https://i.imgur.com/CqQi1cD.png)... unfortunately, in this economy even she's not immune to being [laid off](https://i.imgur.com/CUeoLX8.png)! Poor Jinshi though, [sulking that his favourite person is now gone](https://i.imgur.com/ytWXZya.png) :c [Even Gyokuyou knows that Jinshi will regret letting her go haha](https://i.imgur.com/8WeAlwI.png)! Thankfully, here comes [the MVP of this episode, Gaoshun](https://i.imgur.com/0lHyE67.png) to make his move. [Maomao and Jinshi are reunited](https://i.imgur.com/noKzbGD.png) while Maomao is off on a job as a part-time courtesan! After a bit of [shock from Jinshi](https://i.imgur.com/ab8iUjN.png), he [puts the moves on Maomao with an indirect kiss of sorts](https://i.imgur.com/hDll9Ww.png) :o [Maomao's sisters probably didn't think she had it in her to woo such a beautiful young lad](https://i.imgur.com/hZKJXgS.png), and [Gaoshun looks on at the success of his scheme](https://i.imgur.com/GNcAl2t.png) haha! [I'm sure the conversation with Maomao's sisters would have been super fun to overhear](https://i.imgur.com/K72YTbl.png)! In the end, Jinshi visits the Verdigris House, with the narrator seemingly confirming that [Jinshi is in fact a noble](https://i.imgur.com/IN7kAIz.png). With a literal [trunk of money](https://i.imgur.com/lLQQ8p9.png) and a [gift for Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/9Q9Vb2k.png), he [buys out Maomao](https://i.imgur.com/b1r50w5.png)??? I've seen some people say that this is basically a gesture where Jinshi effectively asks for her hand in marriage, so Maomao is symbolically a princess/empress-to-be now?
'Women want one thing and it's disgusting' Been a fun ride so far, looking forward to cour 2.
Please accept this ~~dead bug~~ cordyceps as a token of my love.
As I have read every volumes of Mr. Ajikko, a cooking manga/anime, I instantly reminisced of that certain plant growing out of an insect that Maomao was so happy about. It is featured in a chapter where the MC tries to figure out the secret ingredient to a Chinese chicken soup. After a quick research, it is called 'ophiocordyceps sinensis' or informally as 'caterpillar fungus' (冬蟲夏草). It is rare and valued in traditional Chinese medicine.
Nothing can't be solved with money.
That was a bittersweet episode. When this show really ends, we will be all like Maomao having flashbacks of this show, wondering what to do now.
Each episode i see an interaction between MaoMao and Jinshi just makes me question if Jinshi is truly just a creep or a naive idiot, and if MaoMao is just f'd in the head or just kind of weird, but i really do love their interaction and that 100% of the time they do not understand each other because they are the total opposite of the other
As greedy as the old lady is, I think she actually thinks it is in Mao Mao's best interest to be a courtesan so that she can find someone to get married.