The Apothecary Diaries weaves a captivating tale of intrigue, medicine, and human connections, cultivating a deeply devoted fan base. This strong following is largely thanks to the anime's exceptional and distinctive character development throughout the series. The story centers around Maomao, a keenly observant apothecary, who begins to unravel the many mysteries lurking within the palace walls.
Among these enigmas is Lishu, a character who remains elusive, her presence more implied than seen. Lishu's narrative quietly unfolds in the background, through subtle moments that suggest deeper layers beneath the surface. As Maomao delves deeper into the palace's hidden secrets, Lishu becomes a figure of intrigue, her destiny closely tied to the complex and shifting dynamics of court life.
What happened to Lishu in Apothecary Diaries?
In "The Apothecary Diaries," Lishu, a former Virtuous Consort, finds herself entangled in the dangerous intricacies of palace politics. Her position becomes perilous when she nearly dies from poisoned food due to an allergy after her taster switches a dish. It is Maomao’s quick intervention that saves her life, earning her an ally among the attendants and which also leads to a change in attitude from the attendants and the taster.
Lishu's journey in the Emperor's court is marked by manipulation and vulnerability. Originally sent to the palace to be a consort for the Previous Emperor to fulfill her family's ambitions, she was spared the worst of his attentions, thanks to the protection of Ah-Duo and the crown prince. After the Previous Emperor’s death, Lishu was expected to retire to a nunnery.
However, her family's political maneuvers brought her back to the palace, now as a consort to the Current Emperor, a role many deemed scandalous. Despite her status, Lishu lacks true influence and is often at the mercy of her attendants, who bully her due to her naivety and inexperience in court affairs. She is frequently subjected to bullying and manipulation, making her survival in the palace a constant challenge.
However, Ah-Duo took on a motherly role to the young girl after losing her own child and the two became incredibly attached, with Lishu even devastated when Ah-Duo had to leave.
FAQs on Lishu in Apothecary Diaries
A. No, Maomao isn’t dead in Apothecary Diaries.
A. Lishu became the former Emperor’s concubine at the age of 9 and is currently the high consort of the Current Emperor.
A. Yes, Maomao knows that Lakan is her father by blood.
