It’s all about the appeal and Jinshi embodies it perfectly. The purple-haired eunuch is every fangirl’s dream at this moment. His beauty, charm, and intelligence had Maomao attributing the traits to state-level warfare. We are aware of his true status, however, the series has yet to expand on that as well.
As an Imperial prince and a eunuch, he isn’t exempt from the vices within the Palace. And while we do get a glimpse of this in his childhood, it would be refreshing to see it fleshed out through a prequel. This can potentially touch upon his dynamics with other characters in the series.
The duality of Jinshi’s past in The Apothecary Diaries
Jinshi is first introduced to us as a high-ranked eunuch whose charm had maidservants and ladies-in-waiting swooning all around him. His beauty is lethal for both men and women as pointed out by Maomao. It is only valid that he uses it to his advantage.
As an Imperial Prince and a eunuch, he holds authority within the realm of the Imperial Palace. This is clear when he bought Maomao from Verdigris House. His involvement in the matters of the court and consort realm also cements his presence as a strong character. But that is not all that is there to it.
Like consorts, he isn’t isolated from the mechanics of power play. The assassination and manipulation run deep within the folds of the Imperial Palace. This is especially true for the moment when Maomao saved him from being unalived.
His persona of a eunuch, as we all know by now, is a facade to uncover and unfurl mysteries within the palace. He cannot do so by taking on the role of an Imperial Prince. His connection to the Emperor would only be a hindrance to him carrying out his duties, which makes one thing certain.
Beneath the duality lies his vulnerability. There is a need for him to be understood and seen by Maomao especially when it comes to his real self. He isn’t cautious but rather discerning in this matter, especially when it comes to his status. This ties in well with his dynamic with other characters.
So far, the anime hinted at his possible origins through Ah Duo and Emperor’s story. His childhood isn’t fleshed out yet. We do get a glimpse of his possible dynamics with other characters, which only means one thing. A prequel arc would be ideal for mapping his backstory perfectly.
The ‘Prequel Approach’ to mapping backstories
The Apothecary Diaries anime is currently on its second season, and to say the least, it has fans glued to their seats. With concubines and consorts stepping into their power, this season is being well-received and praised. But what it also does is explore the depths and intricacies of character dynamics.
Our Moon Fairy is no exception to this, especially with his possible ties with the Former Emperor. The recent episode was a glimpse into the Imperial Prince’s childhood, which was cut short by him waking up in cold sweat. The nightmare is something that troubled both readers and viewers.
![Jinshi catches Maomao in The Apothecary Diaries. [Credit: Toho]](https://fwmedia.fandomwire.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/21071842/jinshi-catching-maomao-on-the-rooftop-the-apothecary-diaries-1024x512.png "Despite Making Jinshi a Central Character, 'The Apothecary Diaries' Refuses to Elaborate on His Past the Way It Should Be 6")
The fans are aware of the Former Emperor and his cruelty. His twisted motives involving young girls are deeply disturbing. Some fans even speculate that he may have violated our beloved hero. And while it hasn’t been confirmed as of yet, the anime might expand on the Former Emperor’s vices.
Overall, it would be nice to see a prequel arc flesh out these details and get into the details. It would help in uncovering the events and wouldn’t leave room for inconsistencies in any case.
The Apothecary Diaries is available for streaming on Crunchyroll.
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