“We Didn’t Have Any Detailed Discussions”: The Apothecary Diaries Stars Reflect on the Series’ Most Crucial Scene

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In July 2025, the second season finale of “The Apothecary Diaries” was released, faithfully adapting the novel up to Volume 4. A sequel has been announced with a sneak peek, but specifics are still under wraps. Unlike the first season, which primarily focused on Suirei’s plans to assassinate the Imperial Brother, the second season delves deeper into her ambitions and her ties with the Shi Clan. As one of the most influential clans in the nation, the Shi Clan has traditionally been loyal to the Imperial family. However, this allegiance was shaken when Shenmei, a ruthless woman who is both the daughter of the former clan head and the wife of the current leader, seized power.

A selfish and arrogant woman brought about the downfall of a family legacy that had been upheld for many years, with her mentor, Shishou, standing idly by due to his affection for her. In contrast, Suirei, daughter of Shishou’s first wife, followed every command she received from Shenmei, enduring the mistreatment she suffered. The one who demonstrated courage in this situation was Loulan, the genuine heir of the Shi Clan, despite her fate being sealed. She treasured the moments she shared with Maomao while posing as a servant girl named Shisui. Interestingly, it wasn’t just Loulan; even Maomao felt deeply about this enigmatic girl, though she never quite understood her fully.

The Apothecary Diaries Stars Share Insights on Season 2’s Most Crucial Scene

At Anime Expo 2025, the long-standing annual anime gathering held in California for more than three decades, featured a panel discussion for “The Apothecary Diaries.” The series’ voice actors were present at this event, offering insights into their work behind the scenes. During this panel, Asami Seto (voice of Loulan) and Aoi Yuki (voice of Maomao) discussed a particular scene from Season 2 Episode 21, where Maomao chooses to persist in calling Loulan “Shisui.” Representatives from ComicBook attended this panel.

In simpler terms, Seto mentioned that he was particularly attentive during today’s dubbing, especially when using the microphone.

Yuuki mentioned, “We didn’t delve deeply into this scene’s specifics, but we instinctively connected and truly conveyed our emotions through the dialogue, making it seem as if we were fully immersed in our roles.

In this crucial scene, maintaining focus by the actor is essential, and we managed to create a conducive setting for it. Later, Aoi took over, ensuring a cordial ambiance for us to spend quality time together post-dubbing, as explained by Seto.

Following Loulan disclosing her true self to Maomao, it came as a surprise that the apothecary would refer to her by her alias. In truth, Maomao paused for thought, but she understood that her relationship with Shisui and Loulan was rooted in shared memories. For her, their friendship held greater importance than Loulan’s complex persona. As the daughter of Shenmei, Loulan lived under tight restrictions and never experienced personal freedom.

Yet, while appearing as a servant maid, Loulan enjoyed a false sense of autonomy. Unspoken, but evident was her delight when Maomao used the self-chosen name she preferred. The moment further underscored their connection, as they readied themselves for a painful goodbye.

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2025-07-22 15:10