The Apothecary Diaries Returns With a Surprise Series Before the Anime Sequel

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The TV series “Apothecary Diaries” wrapped up its second season in July 2025, only to excite fans with news of a third season shortly after. In fact, while specific details about the upcoming season are still under wraps, enthusiasts can already read a spin-off titled “The Apothecary Diaries: Xiaolan’s Story” in manga format. This side story was published in March 2025 and became accessible to global fans on July 24th, 2025, as it was translated into English by Square Enix’s Manga Up. The spin-off, penned by the original creator, Natsu Hyuuga, and illustrated by Itsuki Nanao and Toko Shino, delves deeper into the story from Xiaolan’s perspective, revealing her past and explaining how she became a servant girl in the Rear Palace.

In the debut episode of the anime, Xiaolan made her appearance and has been a friend to Maomao ever since. Even though Maomao initially concealed her abilities, Xiaolan was aware of her education. During the events of the second season, Xiaolan’s employment at the Rear Palace came to an end. However, thanks to Maomao’s assistance, she formed a connection with a Concubine and found another job. Although Xiaolan may not be central to the main plot, she plays an essential role as one of Maomao’s closest companions. As the primary story does not explore Xiaolan extensively, readers get to discover a different aspect of her character through the spin-off manga.

What to Expect From The Apothecary Diaries Anime Sequel

The initial announcement about the follow-up didn’t specify its format, leaving us unsure if we’ll see a third season or a movie that sticks to the original storyline. Given that the first two seasons spanned four quarters (cours), adapting one novel volume for each cour, it’s likely that the sequel will follow a similar structure.

The Shi Clan’s rebellion caused significant turmoil in the kingdom, as the fall of such a powerful clan led to a power shift. Among those most impacted is Jinshi, who discarded his disguise as an eunuch and unveiled himself as the Moon Prince Ka Zuigetsu.

He commanded the royal forces with the aim of quelling the fires of revolt, yet despite his victory, there remains much unfinished business for him. No longer will he serve as manager of the Rear Palace, instead focusing on his responsibilities as an Imperial brother. Furthermore, Maomao is now returning to the Verdigris House due to her inability to continue working at the Rear Palace following Concubine Gyokoyou’s delivery of a prince.

Despite currently living apart, they’ll collaborate as indicated in the announcement trailer throughout the remainder of the second season. In the closing stages of the second season, Loulan passed him a note detailing potential future events within the country. Moreover, the show’s most effective pair will join forces to decipher the mystery surrounding the “damage” in the northern farming communities. The upcoming series will adapt the fifth volume of the light novel, exploring the aftermath of the fourth volume’s ending.

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2025-07-28 16:10