"The Apothecary Diaries" is a compelling Japanese light novel series penned by Natsu Hyūga. The plot unfolds in an imaginary country, heavily influenced by Imperial China, and follows the intriguing journey of Maomao. Despite her humble beginnings as an apothecary in the red-light district, she's kidnapped and sold into servitude in the Imperial Palace. Her innate curiosity and analytical skills lead her to unravel the mystery behind the critical illness plaguing the emperor's children, inadvertently drawing the attention of an influential eunuch. Consequently, she finds herself embroiled in solving various royal court mysteries. The series has been transformed into two manga adaptations and an anime television series, with an anticipated second season set to be released in 2025.