Episode 42 of the TV anime The Apothecary Diaries (aired on May 9 on Nippon TV, Fridays at 11:00 PM) titled "Hōzuki (Chinese Lantern Plant)" Story & Preview Images Released.

It was also announced that Toshiyuki Toyonaga will voice Rahan, a new character introduced in this episode.

About The Apothecary Diaries

This captivating mystery-drama follows Maomao, the eccentric apothecary’s daughter obsessed with poisons and medicines, and Jinshi, a beautiful yet enigmatic eunuch. Together, they solve a series of perplexing cases within the imperial court. The series is based on the original novels by Natsu Hyūga, with illustrations by Touko Shino.

The anime's first season, which aired in October 2023, captivated audiences with Maomao’s spirited heroine, engaging mysteries, and intricate human drama within the rear palace. The series consistently ranked high across streaming platforms.

In Season 2, tensions escalate in the imperial palace with the announcement of Empress Gyokuyou’s pregnancy. Adding to the intrigue are the arrival of Consort Rouran, daughter of a key minister from the previous emperor’s era, an unprecedented unresolved attempt on Jinshi’s life, and the disappearance of suspect Sui Reiyuu. Foreign delegations and special envoys with unreasonable demands further complicate matters, leading to a crisis that threatens the entire nation.

Episode 42 “Hōzuki (Chinese Lantern Plant)” – Story Summary

Ten days have passed since Maomao went missing. As Consort Gyokuyō goes into labor, Luomen stays by her side to assist. Meanwhile, Jinshi hears that a eunuch who disappeared around the same time as Maomao was seen praying at the northern graveyard—where women once favored by the late emperor were laid to rest after their passing in the inner palace.

In search of clues, Jinshi visits the site and finds a court lady before the graves. He notices a familiar scent of alcohol—one that Maomao always carries—emanating from the woman. Hoping to uncover more, he presses her for further information...

Cast

Maomao
Aoi Yūki
Jinshi
Takeo Ōtsuka
Gaoshun
Katsuyuki Konishi
Gyokuyō
Atsumi Tanezaki
Lihua
Yui Ishikawa
Lishu
Hina Kino
Xiaolan
Misaki Kuno
Shisui
Asami Seto
Narration
Sumi Shimamoto

Staff

Original Work
Natsu Hyūga
(Published by Hero Bunko / Imagica Infos)
Character Design Draft
Touko Shino
Chief Director & Series Composition
Norihiro Naganuma
Director
Akinori Fudesaka
Assistant Director
Wataru Nakagawa
Script
Yuko Kakihara, Misuzu Chiba, Hitomi Ogawa
Character Design
Yukiko Nakatani
Art Director
Katsumi Takao
Color Design
Misato Aida
CGI Director
Aru Nagai
Director of Photography
Mayo Suzuki
Editing
Daisuke Imai
Sound Director
Shouji Hata
Music
Satoru Kōsaki, Kevin Penkin, Alisa Okehazama
Animation Production
TOHO animation STUDIO × OLM
Production
"The Apothecary Diaries" Production Committee

Global Streaming Details

Season 2 premiered on January 10, 2025, in Japan.

United States & Canada: Crunchyroll – Fridays
Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam: Netflix – Fridays
Other Regions: Crunchyroll – Fridays

Check the official website for up-to-date release schedules.

The Apothecary Diaries Episode 42 Trailer

Opening Theme Lilas Ikuta – "Hyakka Ryouran"

Hirai Dai – "Shiawase no Recipe"

Source : ORICON NEWS