In the hit anime The Apothecary Diaries, the growing bond between Maomao and Jinshi has captured the hearts of viewers. Maomao is a sharp-witted servant in the imperial harem, while Jinshi is a high-ranking and mysterious eunuch admired for his looks and status. Despite their contrasting personalities, there's undeniable chemistry between them—though Jinshi openly expresses interest, Maomao remains distant and indifferent. So, what exactly draws Jinshi to Maomao? Here are five reasons why he finds her so captivating.
1. Maomao’s Intelligence and Education Stand Out
From their very first meeting, Jinshi noticed something unusual about Maomao—she could read. In the anime's historical setting, literacy was reserved for the elite, making Maomao’s ability rare and impressive. Once Jinshi discovered her deep knowledge of medicine and her analytical mind, his admiration only grew. He even arranged her transfer to a new position as a food taster at the Jade Pavilion, trusting her skills to protect Lady Gyokuyō from a potential poisoning.
2. She Reacts Differently to Him Than Everyone Else
Jinshi is used to being adored by women in the palace, thanks to his striking appearance and charm. But Maomao wasn’t impressed. When he first tried to charm her with a smile, she responded with a mix of confusion and disdain. This unexpected reaction piqued Jinshi’s curiosity—her indifference made her even more intriguing compared to the others who fawned over him.
3. She’s Highly Reliable and Insightful
Maomao’s sharp observation skills make her a trusted problem solver in the palace. Her first major contribution was uncovering the cause behind the illness and death of Lady Lihua’s child—despite being doubted at first. Her success led many, including Jinshi, to rely on her when mysteries arose. Time and again, she proved capable of identifying clues others missed, further reinforcing Jinshi’s growing respect and reliance on her.
4. Jinshi Deeply Trusts Her
Although Jinshi rarely verbalizes his trust, his actions speak volumes. For instance, during a hunting event in Season 2, he personally requested Maomao's assistance—despite having access to other skilled attendants. When an ambush occurred, Jinshi was willing to confide in Maomao about his true identity—something only his closest aide Gaoshun knew. This moment reflected just how much Jinshi trusts her, beyond professional reliance.
5. She Selflessly Helps Others Without Hesitation
Despite her aloof demeanor, Maomao is compassionate. She often intervenes in difficult situations, whether investigating suspicious deaths or protecting fellow attendants like Xiaolan. In a dangerous assassination attempt, she even risked her life to save Jinshi, sustaining injuries in the process. Her courage and willingness to help—especially in a palace where most avoid involvement—further fueled Jinshi’s admiration for her.
Conclusion
Maomao’s intelligence, independence, and bravery stand in stark contrast to the typical palace dynamics. While she remains emotionally distant, Jinshi’s interest only grows stronger. As noted by Suiren, Jinshi isn’t someone who changes his mind easily—once he falls for someone, his feelings remain steady. His devotion to Maomao is proof of that enduring affection.