“The Apothecary Diaries” continues to captivate audiences with its blend of mystery, intrigue, and sharp wit. Season 2, Episode 37, which aired on April 4, 2025, sees Maomao navigating the complexities of the Imperial Palace, this time amidst the steam and secrets of the bathhouse. This episode, titled “Bathhouse,” marks the beginning of the season’s second cour and promises to set the stage for escalating tensions and dramatic developments.
A Change of Scenery: The Bathhouse Beckons
Episode 37 shifts the focus from the familiar apothecary setting to the grand public bath, a place frequented not only by handmaidens but also by lower- and mid-ranking consorts. This change of scenery provides a unique backdrop for the episode’s plot, as the relaxed atmosphere encourages loose lips and the sharing of tantalizing rumors.
Xiaolan’s Job Hunt: Networking in the Nude
With her years of service in the rear palace drawing to a close, Xiaolan seeks Maomao’s advice on her next career move. Shisui, ever the pragmatist, suggests that Xiaolan visit the bathhouse to forge new connections. Following Shisui’s advice, Xiaolan begins her job hunt by offering a unique “service” to the consorts, using her skills to ingratiate herself with them.
Eavesdropping and Intrigue: Palace Gossip Unveiled
As the consorts unwind and let their guards down, Maomao finds herself in the perfect position to overhear intriguing rumors. Talk of high-ranking consorts being pregnant, including Empress Gyokuyou, and whispers about a newly arrived, exceptionally beautiful eunuch pique her interest. These rumors hint at the escalating tensions and political maneuvering within the palace, setting the stage for future conflicts and challenges.
Pregnancy Rumors: A Delicate Matter
The rumors surrounding the consorts’ pregnancies add a layer of complexity to the palace intrigue. Gyokuyou’s confirmed pregnancy raises the stakes, as it could potentially solidify her position and influence within the court. The rumors surrounding Lihua and Loulan’s possible pregnancies further fuel the competition and uncertainty among the consorts.
The Mysterious Eunuch: A New Player?
The arrival of a “newly arrived, exceptionally beautiful eunuch” also sparks curiosity and speculation. This mysterious figure could potentially disrupt the existing power dynamics within the palace, becoming either an ally or an adversary to the consorts and other influential figures.
Lishu’s Plight: Ghosts and Isolation
The episode also touches upon the plight of Lishu, the youngest consort, who finds herself increasingly isolated and vulnerable. Maomao observes Lishu and her head lady-in-waiting using the public baths instead of the private one in her pavilion. Lishu’s explanation that there’s a ghost in her bathroom suggests that there may be forces working against her.
A Target for Malevolence?
Lishu’s statement about the ghost raises questions about whether she is being targeted by someone within the palace. The potential ghost, telling ghost stories, is an anomaly in a series that doesn’t dabble in the supernatural. Given her precarious position, Lishu could be an easy target for those seeking to undermine the emperor’s favor and sow discord within the court.
On the Outside Looking In
As the least visible of the four consorts, Lishu is in a precarious position, especially with rumors swirling about the other consorts’ pregnancies. The emperor’s seeming disinterest in her further isolates her, making her vulnerable to manipulation and intrigue.
Jinshi’s Impending Revelation
While the episode primarily focuses on the events within the bathhouse, it also hints at Jinshi’s impending revelation. In the previous episode, Maomao accidentally discovered that Jinshi is not a eunuch, setting the stage for a significant shift in their relationship. The anticipation of Jinshi’s explanation adds another layer of excitement and intrigue to the series.
Expert Opinions and Fan Theories
Anime News Network highlights several key aspects of the episode, noting that Shisui’s suggestion for Xiaolan to find employment by cozying up to concubines at the baths works to move the plot ahead. They also point out that Maomao’s current focus on Gyokuyou’s safety requires her to pay attention to inner palace gossip.
Spinalcareproducts.com delves into the intricate palace politics revealed in the episode. Shisui’s clever advice to Xiaolan highlights the importance of inner palace gossip, and Lishu’s ghostly encounter in the baths hints at deeper mysteries. The rumors about Gyokuyou’s pregnancy and Loulan’s possible pregnancy add tension, leaving viewers wondering if Jinshi is about to make a move.
Final Thoughts: A Calm Before the Storm
Episode 37 serves as a calm before the storm, hinting at the dramatic developments to come in the next installment. The episode sets the stage for escalating tensions, political maneuvering, and the unveiling of long-held secrets. With Maomao’s sharp wit and keen observation skills, she is sure to play a crucial role in navigating the treacherous waters of the Imperial Palace.
“The Apothecary Diaries” continues to deliver a compelling blend of mystery, intrigue, and character-driven storytelling. Episode 37 is a testament to the series’ ability to captivate audiences with its intricate plot, engaging characters, and stunning visuals. As the second cour of Season 2 unfolds, fans can expect even more twists, turns, and revelations as Maomao unravels the secrets of the Imperial Palace.
