 |
| Image Courtesy of TOHO Animation |
The Apothecary Diaries manga went on hiatus after the release of Chapter 80 in April 2025 but has now returned to its regular monthly schedule. The break followed a challenging period for the series, including manga artist Nekokurage’s arrest for tax evasion and her declining health. Nekokurage avoided prison time on the condition that she commits no further offenses and files taxes properly after paying a significant fine. While she remains the illustrator for the series, reports about her poor health surfaced earlier this year, prompting her to take a much-needed break. Currently, the manga is still in the midst of the Shi Clan rebellion, meaning the anime has progressed beyond the manga in terms of story.
The anime adaptation of The Apothecary Diaries directly follows Natsu Hyuuga’s original novel, so it does not rely on the manga for content. Season 2 concluded by fully adapting the fourth volume of the novel, while the manga continues the Shi Clan arc. Following the Season 2 finale, an official announcement trailer confirmed that a sequel is in development. The next installment will continue Maomao and Jinshi’s journey as they uncover new mysteries in the kingdom’s Northern farming village. Although specific details about the sequel have yet to be revealed, fans can look forward to keeping up with the manga as it returns to its regular release schedule.
What Is Happening in The Apothecary Diaries Manga?
 |
| Image Courtesy of TOHO Animation |
The previous chapter concluded with Loulan shocking Maomao by revealing the unconscious children after making them drink poison. From here, the girls are forced to take drastic measures, especially with their own lives in danger. Meanwhile, Jinshi has accepted Lakan’s advice to lead the charge against the Shi Clan and is seen strategizing with both Lakan and the others. With time running out, Lakan grows increasingly desperate to protect Maomao, while those around him do their best to keep him composed.
For the first time in the manga, we see Jinshi wearing his armored outfit—and it’s absolutely stunning. Nekokurage’s illustration brings out remarkable detail, surpassing even the anime adaptation, staying true to Hyuuga’s vision. During this moment, Jinshi also reflects on the false eunuch identity he has maintained for years to avoid royal responsibilities and stay out of the public eye.
He understands that continuing this facade is no longer an option, yet he’s prepared to step out of his comfort zone to rescue Maomao and end the rebellion. This chapter also offers a look into the tragic past of Shi Clan leader Shishou, who has suffered for years due to Shenmei’s actions. Now, the time has come to bring down one of the kingdom’s most influential clans—and Jinshi is ready to lead the royal army into battle.
The latest chapter is available to read on the official Manga Up app. For those following the anime, you can catch up on Crunchyroll and Netflix.
Post a Comment