#Maomao in modern life

[masodemic]

The problem with Jinshi's court title

We need to talk about the English translation of Kusurinyan LN (get it like nyan cuz Maomao), more specifically the translation of 月の君 (Tsuki no Kimi) into Moon Prince 🌙

This isn't wrong. In a literal sense, the phrases refer to the same title. However, there is a non-defined cultural meaning which Moon Prince can't quite communicate.

In modern Japanese, the word "prince" can be translated to 王子様 which is straightforward, cut and dry, referring to "the master, the child of the king/queen." Whereas 君 is a little bit like His/Her Highness, implying their status.

But unlike we do now, in Medieval Japan (and likely in similar cultures), it was taboo to directly refer to a person of high status with their given name, hence, they can be addressed via their office, title, place of residence or some personal nickname.

A good real life example is the author Murasaki Shikibu whose "pen name" is a combination of her father's office (Shikibu) and the female lead's nickname in the Tale of Genji. In that same work, the main character is referred to as 源氏の君 (Genji no Kimi: the Prince from the Minamoto clan), or 光る君 (Hikaru Kimi: the Prince who lights up/sparkles/shines). While referring or speaking to a noble, they kept the addressee's "name" general. That veiled conduct is - imo - a factor behind the mysticism of Medieval court. Where people are mythified by something akin to their epithets, usually respectful, occasionally poetic, lending the atmosphere an effortless aura of elegance.

So, back to KnH, although the story is set in fictionalized China, many cultural cues are still taken from Japan, especially in linguistics. After all the work is originally written in Japanese. Furthermore, Jinshi is constantly portrayed as a mysterious figure to those who don't know him personally. Those who do refer to him respectfully with a general and period-appropriate nickname combining his title and the last kanji of his name (arguably, an aspect of his character or role in the story).

Hence, it doesn't make contextual sense to refer to him as Moon Prince like we would do Prince Harry or other modern celebrity royals. It should be treated like an epithet with all due ✨DRAMA✨ and 🌙elegance🌙

That is to say I need more linguistic flair, give me that archaic flowery language of poetry

So dare I suggest ...

[hualianschild]

Genuine question. I loved many elements of the apothecary diaries, the mystery, the unsexualised main lead and the slice-of-lifey vibe to it and just about everything else also ticks all things I love about stories in media. The problem is there is ginormous off-putting almost triggering thing in it. The setting and how it displays women.

Does the setting of apothecary diaries not upset any others girl watcher’s stomach? If you want a detailed ask i can send one :(

I geniunly mean no harm, but I saw anime feminists say it’s one of the best piece of media that navigates womens struggles and I’m so flabbergasted.

hello thanks for the ask and yes you can send me a detailed ask I don't mind ^^

so the thing about the apothecary diaries is that it's based on ancient historical china and and as with any historical based media ofcourse there will be lots of misogyny and homophobia and every bad old thinking thing you can think of, as someone who watches lots of historical fantasy related things, things like these are a common occurrence atp and I'm so used to it that I'll be surprised if a piece of historical media is non toxic and full of positive vibes. In the apothecary diaries there's this system of the emperor keeping concubines in a separate palace and all they're useful for is to provide heirs and I'm like yeah it was the usual scene back in the day (there's just this ONE ruler in china who kept just one partner his entire life and he's famous for that if I remember correctly) and I can't do anything abt it now cuz that system has long been abandoned now as with the slavery system too

I think the anime feminists saying it's a good depiction of women struggles aren't wrong as maomao who's seen as the daughter of a commoner somehow got sold as a servant and is bound by a contract and everyone suffers in a slavery system and adding the fact that people try to disregard her advice cuz she's a woman and a teenager and a slave at that really reflects back to what usually happens to women in modern times too but even after that she has a friend who she talks with abt their struggles of being a servant and that she's still enthusiastic about poisons and herbs and everything related to apothecary and doesn't let those people from stopping her in persuing her interests whenever she can while still trying to save her life (servants meant nothing to the ruling class so they can be easily k worded off) just makes me so happy, she's now thriving cuz everyone knows how talented she is and very clever to the point they go to her to ask for suggestions and advice about their problems and trust her to help cure their problems is a good representation of how people let their internal misogyny stop them from seeing what's actually there

so yeah these were my thoughts I know some might disagree here and there but feel free to point out if there's a flaw or something here hope this helps ~

[cfserkgk]

Your Modern AU gives me life <3 <3 <3

Thank you very very much! Honestly, the AU is just me drawing whatever I want to see (which is Maomao Lahan siblings and Lakan Fengxian actually being happy together), but drawn with the petty amount of illustration skill I have haha.

I feel like we don't have enough La clan/Han family fan content in general and I'm all for more, especially since I think Lakan and Fengxian's story is one of the most well written ones I've personally seen (haven't caught up with the light novel I might be wrong). I'm really glad there are other people out there who agree with me.

And this is the first time I'm receiving an ask! I'm not familiar with Tumblr and I didn't regularly used it before I started posting things, so thank you very very very much for going out of your way to send me something so kind :)

Also here is a small doodle from a while back of the family as thanks:

[koiyan-hades-kid-with-a-system]

Game/movie/anime/show/manga/manhua/manhwa/novel/other book characters in pjo and slapping a godly parent on them +reasoning +in universe claiming +possible tumblr username(s) I might make into reality

Kaveh (Game: Genshin Impact)

Athena kid

Hes an architect literally graduated with an honors degree in architecture. DESIGNED A PALACE burnt out gay gifted kid frfr drowns sorrows in alcohol, no will to live

in universe respects the gods and makes a bunch of designs for athena to please her didn’t take long for him to get claimed after the designing a whole palace thing full time camper bc it means no alhaitham to boss him around. misses alhaitham though.

“Ah the palace is designed now-“ *sees the athena symbol above him* “What the fuck?”

Possible @: lost-my-keys-again, best-blonde-architect (sorry annabeth but he has a bit of an ego), every-building-made-with-pride, art-architect-athena, light-of-kshahrewar-and-athena, kaveh-the-architect, designing-takes-my-will-to-live

Maomao (Anime/Manga/Novel: Apothecary Diaries)

Apollo kid, Shennong legacy

shes an apothecary thats immune to most poisons bc she tested on herself to build immunity. can detect what type of poison she consumes or smells, can cure it, has a lot of medical knowledge, acts almost catlike. blessed by aphrodite possibly she was raised in a brothel and canonically has a pretty face. she paints on freckles with clay so she doesn't get kidnapped bc in old chinese times they did that- impassive, negative opinion of love. only thing she got from apollo was healing- apollo the genes are not strong with you this time- miss girl got kidnapped and sold to the imperial palace. now she serves under imperial concubines as the taste tester so they wont eat poison(holy shit i ranted about her a lot i love this anime-)

in universe probably disregards the gods until physical solid proof was shown aka apollo physically having to pick her up from the palace she worked at. she hissed and scratched to stay but plopped into camp half blood part time camper bc Sun Wukong does occasionally kidnap her to take her back to the palace. apollo only claimed her bc he realized the famous palace poison tester is his and fucking sprinted to make sure his kid is still alive went like

Sun Wukong:Oh and theres this poison crazy girl in the palace and i think i saw a hint of the sun in her but anyways she willingly eats poison Apollo:… THATS MY FUCKING KID OH GODS TAKE ME TO HER RIGHT NOW- *fucking busts in the door, apollo symbol, snatches and runs* Maomao: Give me a break already-

Possible @: poisoned-daughter-of-apollo, apollos-apothecary-daughter, cat-of-poisons-and-of-apollo, give-me-poison-please, maomao-is-poisoned, poison-for-the-sun-child

Penelope Eckheart (Manhwa/Novel: Death is the Only Ending for the Villainess/Villains are Destined to Die)

SPOILER????-Its a toss up on Hecate or Zagreus- She died and reincarnated over hundreds of times (point to Zag) in the original game in the story literally all you do is die as penelope. But Penelope has a shattered soul and a part of that soul was in the modern day and when it dies or something like that she was reincarnated/isekai’d as Penelope because she originally was Penelope well her shattered soul is. On the other hand Penelope is descendent of ancient wizards and possesses ancient magic (Hecate point) BUT THE DYING AND REVIVING IS SO ZAGREUS- MISS MAAM PENELOPE ECKHEART OF THE DUTCHY PLEASE BE SIMPLE IN THIS CATEGORY FOR ONCE probably Zagreus kid, Hecate legacy more that i think about it.

in universe probably didnt believe in gods because she lived a shitty life in the dutchy until one death where she met zag (if we go the zagreus route) or met hecate after discovering her magic (hecate route) if we did go the zag route he’ll make it up to her by spoiling her and calling her jewel, precious, ect. full time camper, the dutchy doesnt know where she is. She would like to keep it that way

Zag route: *penelope in the underworld again but this time zagreus sees her soul reviving* holy shit youre one of mine- Pene:WHAT???/Hecate route: *sees she has proficiency in magic, ancient power too* ah you must be one of mine. Pene:…Excuse me…?

Possible @: revived-daughter-of-hecate(zagreus), mad-dog-of-hecate(zagreus), lady-eckheart-of-hecate(zagreus), lady-penelope-of-hecate(zagreus), magical-mad-dog, jewel-of-blood (Zagreus route), jewel-of-magic (hecate route)

Rapunzel (Tangled: Movie and Show)

Apollo kid

Healing, music, HER POWER COMES FROM A SUN DROP FLOWER like ik she got it from the flower but like, who said apollo didn't like the queen? (THE QUEEN WAS HOT TO ME OK????)

In universe never knew about gods, Mother Gothel never taught them. when she got out of the tower Apollo gave her many books to read up on them, mostly him. Apollos pissed Gothel kidnapped his baby. Year round camper, kids love braiding her hair, everyone lights lanterns on her birthday as tradition, Kingdom of Corona, Apollo is not sorry, Rapunzels mom was hot and he had a slice, his kid now. She already had musical shit before the flower and now the flower enhanced her healing factor, WHICH IS ACTIVATED BY MUSIC

Apollo: *sees singing and glowing healing hair from a tower* Is that...? *squint* THATS MY BABY- DONT WORRY BABY DADDYS COMING Rapunzel: I have a dad???? *cue tussle for custody, cursed Gothel, bada bing bada boom camp*

Possible @: hair-and-healing, kidnapped-sun-baby, sun-drop-sun-child, flower-of-apollo, sun-drop-flower-child, sun-princess-rapunzel, rapunzels-healing-hair

Flynn Rider (Tangled: Movie and Show)

Hermes kid

Thievery, trickery, wit, athleticism IF HE WAS ABLE TO CLIMB THAT TOWER WITHOUT RAPUNZEL, HES A STRONG ATHLETIC BOY, the works

In universe probably doesn't worship the gods nor know they actually exist, like he read about them but he didn't believe because if they existed, why was his life full of misery? Plopped into camp the same time as Rapunzel bc Hermes called Apollo bc he already was picking up Rapunzel and went "Hey can you get my kid too? Great thanks" Year rounder. Steals shit.

He probably got claimed when he was sneaking into the castle to steal the crown Hermes:THATS MY BOY

Possible @: get-my-dam-nose-right, thief-of-the-sun, crown-stealer, dont-break-my-smolder, hottest-son-of-hermes

[alexbutrandomthoughts]

Thanks for answering my ask....If you don't mind me asking (again), what are your top 10 (or top 7) favorite media (can be books/ manga/ anime/movies/tv series)? Why do you love them? Sorry if you've answered this question before.....

OKAY SO I MAY HAVE FORGOTTEN THIS WAS IN MY DRAFTS CUZ I WAS BUSY IN UNI AND THEN IT JUST GOT ERASED FROM MY MEMORY I AM SO FUCKING SORRY I DIDN'T MEAN TO LET IT STEW FOR SO LONG

1) Haikyuu!!

Honestly this is just a comfort show for me. No matter how many times i rewatch it, it's always like the first time, even if you know what's about to happen, you still cheer and clap and groan in every match. Just AGAIWBAIWBSKBDIS such a good anime, i bawled my eyes out when i finished the manga, honestly this will go down as one of my favorite anime ever (update: watched the movie, it's good but man i wish we had whole season)

2) Undertale/Deltarune

I cannot beat the weird kid allegations, toby fox has me by my (totally legit) balls. Istg toby fox drugs his games, or else idk how to explain how am i keep coming back to this (lies this franchise and story is just pure masterpiece)

3) Fnaf

Yeah definitely doesn't help the weird kid allegations. Well you know what they say, when you start getting into fnaf you sign off your life into eternal servitude. I would describe my relationship with Fnaf as - toxic ex i keep coming back to. Somehow 8 years of this bullshit and we're still going. Counting animatronic toes and reading yet another wtf is this book

4) Bungoe Stray Dogs

Sighhhhhh. The gayssssss. THE GAAAAAYSSS. But nah honestly it just has everything to get me on the board. The drama, mysteries, pretty WOMEN, silly characters, gut wrenching angst, and of course gay ass mfkas. The manga is better though. I don't consider this a masterpiece (not by a lOng shot) but it a good show to watch and talk about, the characters are all fun and silly, cliche at times but nonetheless entertaining and the fan work is just CHEF'S KISS

5) Frieren: Beyond Journey's End

This is a relatively new one but GOD. DAMN. HOW DOES JUST MAKE THIS MASTERPIECE. IT'S SO GOOD. THE EMOTIONS THE PLOT THE CHARACTERS. HOW DOES ONE EXECUTE EVERYTHING SO PERFECTLY AND JUST LEAVES YOU CRYING AND SOBBING MESS BUT IN A GOOD WAY. Genuinely consider this one of the modern classics that will be talked about in years to come. Exploring the how would an immortal perceives time, is not something everyone (or anyone) really explores in fantasy stories but damn frieren absolutely slays with it. Not cherishing the people she was with only to realize how much they meant to her when it was too late, and they're already gone, is just so. UGH. AND THEN SHE SLOWLY LEARNS TO CHANGE AND APPRECIATE THE WORLD AND PEOPLE AROUND HER WHILE GOING THROUGH THE OLD MEMORIES IAISBSJSBSNSNKS. anyway. I do recommend frieren (they better announce that second season)

6) The Apothecary diaries

Also one of the recent ones. What can i say when we get an imperial china not china setting, with inner palace politics, hierarchies and murder mysteries, packed with probably the greatest female protagonist we had in how many years? How can not love it? Maomao my personal spiritual animal. She is just such a compelling character and breath of fresh air in anime community cuz god knows we need more of em. She just feels so real compare to what we usually, she is just one or the girls and that is beautiful. There are of course others aspects of this show that i like but honestly she is probably the main reason this show is just UGH so good

7) Stanley Parable

Okay, this is a bit of an odd one, but hear me out. This game is so GOOOOD. I remember playing way back when, and it was just so different than anything else that was coming out at the time. The meta narrative of this game was truly amazing, the amount options we had and so many interesting dialogs, the THINGS TO EXPLOREE. I also just loved the narrator, he is so goddamn funny, the banter with Henry (even though it's one sided) is still great

These are the ones i can think of, honestly, there are probably others but i cannot remember them rn

[trooperwrites]

Random Weekly Reviews

Genkai Dokushin Joshi (26) Gohan

Enjoyment: 1/10

Quality: 1/10

Link

Genre: Slice of Life/Philosophical

Synopsis

Follow the daily life of a 26 year old individual NEET.

Review

You know, I was thinking of ways to increase the length of this synopsis but in all honesty there is not much more to this story. It isn't particularly interesting or engaging, and the writing isn't very good. The art of the story is also extremely sexualized; the main character is so sexualized so often it ends up being extremely uncomfortable. I thought it would be an interesting introspective into the ways modern life can be restricting and oppressive but it just ended up being uncomfortably horny. If you want to read something about mental health and someone who isn't having a good time, I'd recommend the autobiographical works of Nagata Kabi.

The Far East Incident

Enjoyment: 8/10

Quality: 6/10

Link

Genre: Historical/Action

Synopsis

Japan has just surrendered following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki and is now under American military occupation. Part of the post war process involves cleaning up the various Japanese forces remaining who refuse to recognize the surrender. One such unit of these rogue forces are the variants, super soldiers created by Unit 731. However, not al variants have refused to surrender, Saika who has defected to the Americans and is helping them clean up her comrades. Kankuro Konoe, a former medic, finds himself under the command of Saika after an unfortunately series of mishaps. What will happen as these two chase down various variants?

Review

There are only two chapters out on MangaDex right now but the text feels like a form of historical revisionism. In the real world, Unit 731 carried out various biological and chemical warfare programs on the civilian populations of Manchuria killing anywhere from 3,000 to 300,000 individuals, mostly civilians. In this story, it seems the focus on the experimentation was various Japanese civilians who are now radical soldiers. I enjoyed the action and the various mysteries, the man leading the Bureau of Public Safety trying to get rid of the variants is in fact the director of Unit 731, but it feels like revisionist history. Perhaps in future chapters, the themes and ideas are explored but for now it is a good story with uncomfortable thematic undertones.

Kusuriya no Hitorigoto

Enjoyment: 10/10

Quality: 8/10

Link

Genre: Mystery/Historical

Synopsis

Maomao, a young woman who has trained her life in the art of medicine has become a servant in the inner palace of the Emperor. Her intelligence and ability to solve the various problems of the consorts living within the palace eventually attracts the attentions of the handsome eunuch Jinshi and, much to her joy, she gets promoted to attendant food taster. Join Maomao as she navigates the complex political situation of the Ming imperial court, attempts to taste various poisons, much to Jinshi's chagrin, and solving the various mysteries that occur.

Review

Who doesn't enjoy a good mystery? I really enjoyed the various mysteries that Maomao has to solve. She uses her expertise in medicine and skills she picked up living on the streets to find logical solutions to the problems of the various consorts. Honestly, the most enjoyable part of this manga is being able to watch Maomao find out the various clues and piece together what exactly happened. There is also a romantic subplot between Maomao and Jinshi but I don't really like it. I don't think the two of them have particularly good chemistry and even though they have a 1 year age gap, the way they're drawn makes the age gap look far bigger. All in all an interesting and fun mystery story that I'd recommend.

[cool-the-binge-eater]

Apothecary Diaries - manga rec

Summary

Before it had an English name I just called it Kusuriya no Hitorigoto. It's about mao mao who was forced by kidnappers to be a court maid. A plain freckled girl who is nonchalant about it but misses working as a doctor assistant for her father.When the high ranking court ladies babies come down with an illness that others deem a curse mao mao figures out the cause. Trying her best not to get stuck in court drama squabbles only leaving a note on the cause. However a eunuch named jinshi figures her out and is forced to solve palace mysteries while also working as poison tester. (it's fine she likes to test poisons on herself)😓 So basically Chinese historical story that deals with harem life that's also a detective and medical story. So their are modern conventions and solutions that we take for granted that are used as solutions in the story. That’s the draw of alot of time traveling stories but since its not we don’t get an outsiders perspective about what we would consider wrong. Maomao has resigned herself to whatever happens to her and dosen’t fight the system directly but she still has a strong sense of justice.

Maomao- the pharmacist

Maomao is the protagonist /pov chara and is the main reason you read the story she's very eccentric when it comes to medicines and poisons but is actually very quick witted and emotionally intelligent. She's a realist and down to earth often thinking little of herself. Maomao has resigned herself to whatever happens to her. She knows she's smart and might be toooo smart. Her only motivation is medcine so political infighting and conspiracies is the opposite of that. Whenever her sense of justice shows up it really bursts and it's great to see💖😊 Even though she pettite skinny and a commoner whenever she decides to do something it really feels like she's risking her life.Also aro/ace representing she really dosent care about much except medicine.💞

Jinshi -Eunuch

He works as a foil to maomao becasue hes a born noble, the boss of her and is one of the most conniving characters. His personality starts off as a sadist/playful tease but eventually really cares for maomao in the story as he gets to know her better. Jinshi is the one who presents the issues to maomao and is the one withe the authority to give her tools to solve the cases.He's obviously hinting at maomao alot but she dosent get it or doesn't care.His job is to work in the harem and to do whatever the emperor requests if him. He's the most beautiful person in the story and alot of woman and men want him. He drinks this a medicine that make him more eunuch like to maintain that appearance. The reason why we don't know and his backstory is one of the big mysteries.

Setting

It's not a specific year which is good Apparently mongels are still a problem and they can keep in contact with the west if they want. Historical Chinese dramas I guess 🤷‍♀️. Politically ppl dislike the last emperor and just over a decade before slavery was abolished. U can technically sell family members tho if ur poor. Maomao was sold as a palace maid and all her earnings go to her "family". In fact most of the maid charachters are the same way.So some cultural things need to be addressed if your new to court drama. Honestly it's a cliche for me cuz I watch alot of Asian dramas but others might not.

In the palace we have the outer court that does real work like paper work and women can join the outer court but they are akin to secretaries. I think they dislike inner court ladies cuz they had to take a test (Also technically maids but they don't do the best job compared to inner court ladies). The inner palace only has women and they are all concubines for the emperor. There have been cases of maids becoming lower ranked concubines if they were pretty. 4 great positions are taken by great noble ladies and their families. These 4 ladies each have their own palace and are the ones most likely to become empress/create heirs.

Hanmachi/red light district is a big part of the story. Mao mao was raised there and is the 2nd location the story takes place. It's both a beautiful gorgeous palace and a dark dangerous alley. Maomao says that the brothels are both a cage and a Wall that protects them from the streets Maomao isn't a courtesan but was raised with her 3 big sisters the 3 princesses of Rokushoukan. All high courtesans need to learn to dance, play instruments, talk, play go or other board games and read. Men don't usually get to sleep with high courtesans and it dosent work on all girls but the more pure you are to get the higher the price.

BTW we never go to them but there are brothels that are lecherous, and there are cases of rape within that district and maomao has almost been in that situation which also hasn't been shown.

Adaptations/art

There are like 3 types of versions of the story for some reason. There are 2 mangas and the og light novel. The mangas not done but maybe the first one went in a different direction of the novel 🤔 idk??? I've read a little bit about the the light novel but honestly not that different. Mao mao is a very introspective charachter she has alot of thoughts and won't say alot of her thoughts or feelings due to fear of nobility or just laziness.

So the manga makes her alot more expressive while keeping her introspective thoughts. She can be very funny and comedic with her expressions. Later on when she gets stitches they keep reopening(she just roles with it and everyone gets freaked out for her)

The 2nd manga makes mao mao her personality more serious and aparently there's less emphasis on romance. Only 1 volume so can't judge on much. (Only read 2 chapters) so I'm gonna talk about the 1st manga.

(Light novel, Kusuriya no Hitorigoto manga and Mao Mao no Kōkyū Nazotoki Techō manga)

The art is really good what happens alot in shoujo series set in harems or inner courts. Is that the women are not hot they can be beautiful, pretty even but they really aren't hot.

But damnnnnnn all the girls are 🔥🔥🔥

Specifically the hanamachi ones and even maomao herself sometimes. Lol 😆 I'm gonna stop now

But seriously I like how they talk about sex, prostitution and harems. Alot of shoujo are so PG about a place that is notorious for sex work.

Last minute thoughts

Check it out there's 2 manga volumes out and more coming. (Or read the scanlations I did both)

I like jinshi when he gets jealous since he's so cool and in control alot seeing him flounder about with mao mao is fun ❤

Maomao has a pretty interesting past too and it's hinted at really early there's this guy she definitely dosent wanna meet in the outer palace (that's my hint for foreshadowing) 🤐

I would read the light novels if ur like dying to know the plot the manga is a monthly series (I won't cuz I'm lazy)

Previous emperor is a pedo current one is a dick. So yea royal family sucks what's new 🙄

[kickassfu]

I think you recced fma and fma brotherhood and i was thinking about starting Shingeki no Kyoji as well, but im not in the mood for those really

not a fan of SnK tbh lol i think i’ve told you that before. right i remember recommending FMA! but that was it? that’s fair, sometimes you’re not in the mood for something.

anyway i’m going for manga here not anime (if you want anime tell me and i’ll think about it better cause as i’ve said before i haven’t watched anime in years)

D.Gray-man -  Set in a fictional 19th century England, D.Gray-man is the story of Allen Walker, a 15-year-old boy who roams the earth in search of Innocence. Washed away to unknown parts of the world after the Great Flood, Innocence is the mysterious substance used to create weapons that obliterate demons known as akuma. - It’s still ongoing (only gets updated like 4 times a year nowadays i think?) and its one of my favorites ever. The drawings get really fucking pretty as time goes on. Idk how far the anime went or if it’ll ever finish.

Akatsuki no Yona -  Being in love with a man of a lower rank was perhaps the only problem in Yona's otherwise peaceful life as a princess, until her world is irrevocably changed and she is forced to flee from her sheltered existence. - also still ongoing and that summary doesn’t do it justice, it’s about a princess that runs away with her bodyguard because someone kills the emperor (her dad) and she then goes looking for the “dragons” that are supposed to protect her, it’s amazing to see how she grows and changes, very good characters tbh. the anime also only had 1 season and i don’t know if it’ll ever get a second one.

Jibaku Shounen Hanako-kun -  At Kamome Academy, rumors abound about the school's Seven Mysteries, one of which is Hanako-san. Said to occupy the third stall of the third floor girls' bathroom in the old school building, Hanako-san grants any wish when summoned. Nene Yashiro, an occult-loving high school girl who dreams of romance, ventures into this haunted bathroom... but the Hanako-san she meets there is nothing like she imagined! Kamome Academy's Hanako-san... is a boy! - also ongoing lol ghosts!! and fantasy like stuff, in the modern world, i really enjoy it. and i think there’s an anime as well but idk how far along it is.

Jujutsu Kaisen -  Yuuji is a genius at track and field. But he has zero interest running around in circles, he's happy as a clam in the Occult Research Club. Although he's only in the club for kicks, things get serious when a real spirit shows up at school! Life's about to get really strange in Sugisawa Town #3 High School! - also fantasy/supernatural stuff. i guess u can kinda see what kinda stuff i enjoy LOL it’s also ongoing. i think there was an announcement there was gonna be an anime.

Ghost Hunt -  The decrepit building was condemned long ago, but every time the owners try to tear it down, "accidents" start to happen-people get hurt, sometimes even killed. Mai Taniyama and her classmates have heard the rumors that the creepy old high school is haunted - this one is older, i remembered it ‘cause i was just recommending a bunch of ghost stuff, but this one is....a lil more serious. There is anime as well, and i remember there was at least one episode that scared the shit outta me, so this one is a bit more horror like, it’s really good tho. Completed.

Kusuriya no Hitorigoto -  In the imperial court, a young woman is put into servitude, Maomao. The tale is just beginning for the woman doctor/pharmacist from the red-light district, as rumors circulate about the emperor's children's lives being short-lived. Her curious nature and thirst for knowledge pushes her to action. To satisfy her curiosity, this young doctor/pharmacist will investigate the origin! What is shifting in the imperial court..!? - ongoing and very fun, the MC is very smart and a bit of weirdo, there is also an ongoing chinese (i think) novel. pretty sure there isn’t an anime.

Raise wa Tanin ga Ii -  Somei Yoshino is a high school girl, born and bred in a yakuza family, but that hasn't stopped her from living a peaceful life - that is, until meeting her fiancé, Miyama Kirishima! - completely different from what i’ve recommended so far. if you like interesting but fucked up relationships this would be a fun read, and the MC looks meek at first but when her shit flips it’s super fun, the dude is off the fucking rails tho lol ongoing

Anyway this was just off the top of my head and I didn’t think about it too hard. But if what you wanted was anime tell me so. Or if you have in mind the kinda stuff you’d rather read or watch tell me, since this was more on my kinda taste than anything else. You could always watch Boku no Hero Academia that one’s pretty big right now and enjoyable. And I love Tokyo Ghoul but i need to be in the mood for that one ‘cause it’s a bit fucked up lol

[cjrae]

Series: React to a Reaction. Episode 20: Thornapple

Here we go again!

1.) "Maomao takes a moment to consider Jinshi's status:

Maomao: Who is this man really?

Oh my god is it finally happening?

Maomao: Knowing would only land me in more trouble. It's got nothing to do with me.

You have got to be kidding me. I suppose I should be happy that she accepts the truth, even if she refuses to look at it."

I believe another commenter used the term "avoidant little shit" and it fits. As frustrating as it is (especially for Jinshi, eventually), the fact that she DELIBERATELY avoids looking at this tells us a lot about how she feels about Jinshi, far more than anything she says or thinks.

2.) "And for as much as he likes Maomao, sometimes Jinshi really doesn't know what the hell he's suppose to do with this girl."

Oh, look, their dynamic in a nutshell!

3.) "Gaoshun teases Jinshi for acting like a child by holding his nose. I wish Gaoshun would get off that already. It's so fucking patronizing. And I know Jinshi has responsibilities and expectations and all that shit, so he has to behave a certain way in public, but does Gaoshun really have to enforce all of that when it's just the two of them relaxing at home?"

In short, yes.

Gaoshun and Jinshi's relationship is interesting, because of the power imbalance. Gaoshun's job is to ensure that the prince is competent - Jinshi's happiness is not a part of this equation. That doesn't mean that Gaoshun doesn't care, but as you put it a while ago in a different review, the prince is powerless to escape his duty.

It takes on more significance as the shadow of his Former Majesty looms over the royal family. Jinshi mentions how the Emperor is only interested in "ripened fruit." His preferences for large busts takes on darker mindset when you realize that he is making a point of choosing his concubines who are grown women, not prepubescent girls, as a political break with the previous administration.

Jinshi is not just a member of the royal family - until a baby boy is born somewhere in that harem, he's the Crown Prince. Which means that not only does the Emperor need to show that he is temperate, competent and not a pedophile, but that his heir is also worthy of taking the throne.

There's a lot of trauma hanging over the royal family that's shaped the Emperor, Jinshi, Ah-Duo and others that we'll see next season. (Or if you start the manga/light novels).

Gaoshun has a hell of a tightrope to walk. And, frankly, he doesn't get to make the call about how Jinshi is raised. He and Suiren have to follow the orders they're given about how to raise him.

4.) "Alright, okay, so Jinshi takes this… concoction to suppress his manhood. I'm trying to figure out mechanically exactly what that means, and I think I know, but wow. What a thing to do to yourself...What is wrong inside Jinshi's head or life that this is something he does?"

This "concoction" is the funniest fucking thing to me, because we saw Maomao pick up the prescription a couple of episodes ago and be confused about why the packet was filled with potato flour. It's specifically taro powder. Someone tell the bubble tea places that too many taro bubble teas are gonna make all the guys unable to perform! Seriously, as fun as the medical mysteries are and they're usually beholden to a modern Western interpretation of medicine and science, occasionally the author pulls out some really weird BS that reminds me not to take it too seriously.

Also, doesn't this just introduce another interesting parallel between Maomao and Jinshi when it comes to self harm with some greater good justifying it?

5.) "We learn that Gaoshun is a GILF grandfather."

You had it right the first time.

6.) "Oh Jinshi…. doesn't know about the baby switch? What the hell? I was convinced he did know. So how did Lady Ah-Duo treat him? I mean he went over to her palace to drink with her alone. The emperor really thinks Jinshi is his little brother huh? Who does know about Jinshi's true identity then? Just me? Do I even know? Have I gotten something mixed up here?"

No, he doesn't know. And neither does the audience really, at this point. Maomao offered a speculation, but that's it.

Something to remember though is that we were just told that Jinshi is 19. Over a year has passed since the first episode (I think it's about 15 months?) which means when the series started, he'd probably just turned 18. He's been doing this for five years as of this episode, which is concurrent to when His Former Majesty died and the succession happened. We also know that before this, Ah-Duo was the Emperor's only consort - which would mean that he was most likely monogamous for all that time.

We don't know much about Jinshi's childhood at this point, but given how determined the characters are to create a break with the previous ruler and how Ah-Duo acted to protect Lishu, I think it's reasonable to assume that this small, nuclear family also worked very hard to keep Jinshi away from His Former Majesty and under their protection - for very gross reasons that are obvious. That would have created a strong bond with Ah-Duo no matter what the status of their biological relationship.

7.) "So why send Maomao away? Is Jinshi concerned after the assassination attempt that it's too dangerous to keep Maomao close? Does he see sending Maomao to the Rear Palace as a way to keep her out of Lakan's grasp?"

As much as Jinshi is fundamentally a good man, he's also a political animal. He usually has more than one reason for the things he does. As Maomao notes, Lakan can't get to her in the Rear Palace, which means that in the Jinshi vs. Lakan power struggle, Jinshi just pulled out his big trump card.

Also, with Lady Gyokuyou pregnant, she's gonna need a food taster even more than before. We know that there were multiple attempted poisonings when she was pregnant with Princess Lingli, which means that as much as Maomao likes the assignment and is happy to do it, the risk just went up.

But Jinshi's duty is very clear. His job is to make sure that baby is born safely - and Maomao is the best person for the job. So, back she goes!

8.) "Lihaku is at Verdigris House and he over hears the news that one of the princesses is about to be bought out and he's terrified that it's the one he's in love with. I may care about Lihaku's personal problems some day, but it's not today."

I suspect Lihaku will grow on you. When he first meets Maomao in her freckles, he's not exactly happy about the cat fishing (from his POV), but we've seen him settle into a sort of big brother role over the course of the Suirei investigation.

Also, you are about to get one of the FUNNIEST scenes in the entire show with Lihaku next episode and if your opening GIF isn't Jinshi twitching, I'll be shocked. :D

The Apothecary Diaries

S1E20 First Watch

Here's where I watch The Apothecary Diaries for the first time and give my thoughts, analysis, predictions, and occasionally I stumble into a joke.

To start at the beginning:

Episode 1

My character/locations cheat sheet

Suiren - Jinshi's attendant

Lakan - strategist. Maomao's biological father.

Lihaku - the military officer who took Maomao out of the Rear Palace

Basan - an officer who is related to Gaoshun

Sir Kounen - Jinshi's older acquaintance who died

Suirei: court lady who doesn't like Maomao

Concubine Loulan - the new Pure Consort

Maomao wakes up. In Jinshi's bed. It's better than recovering in the infirmary.

Suiren helps Maomao prepare to see the others who are all eager for answers. The others also includes Basan, who can fuck all the way off. Why is this guy in a perpetual state of pissed off?

Jinshi hasn't pieced together what happened and asked Maomao to explain. She explains the parts of the conspiracy that she's noticed. That Sir Kounen's death was part of this shocks Jinshi. We get a glimpse of someone ordering replacements of the ceremonial items that were stolen. That person is the exact same guy who was around at the deaths of Sir Kounen and the official who ate poisoned seaweed. Still whoever is the mastermind, must have been aware of the metalworker's technique for this conspiracy to work.

Maomao takes a moment to consider Jinshi's status:

Maomao: Who is this man really?

Oh my god is it finally happening?

Maomao: Knowing would only land me in more trouble. It's got nothing to do with me.

You have got to be kidding me. I suppose I should be happy that she accepts the truth, even if she refuses to look at it.

Suirei and her coconspirators went to a lot of trouble to try to kill Jinshi. What is the connection between Suirei and Jinshi?

Oh Suirei is dead. She took poison. Made from her morning glories perhaps? And she was the sole mastermind behind the incident. Right.

Lihaku is here. He's starting to grow on me. Or maybe he just seems preferrable after having to tolerate Basan. What is with all the men in this palace anyway?

Lihaku: Well anyway the mystery's been solved. I'll see you.

That should not have made me laugh the way it did. The way he just drops this very much not solved case and walks away. Lihaku proves he is not the man for Maomao at every turn.

Maomao wonders if Suirei is the type to commit suicide. She thinks maybe, because Suirei was so apathetic, but their last conversation was so strange. She talked about resurrection medicine, which is impossible, but if Suirei took a poison that only made her appear dead... and Maomao can figure out the antidote, then maybe she can "resurrect" Suirei and maybe get some answers? Or is there something else going on here?

Maomao is on to something, and she is so excited. She asks Jinshi for a favor to speak with the doctor who examined Suirei's body. Her enthusiasm for solving mysteries is on full psychotic display, and even having seen it before, Jinshi is a little taken aback.

Gaoshun doesn't want Jinshi in the morgue.

But:

Jinshi: Where the apothecary goes, so will I. Gaoshun: *sigh* Naturally.

Gaoshun, sweety, if you already knew, then why did you bother?

It seems Suirei was depending on this doctor who is in love with her to perform her autopsy, because he never cut her open to find out what kind of poison she ingested. Maomao reveals that the woman in Suirei's casket is not in fact Suirei. She then taunts the doctor into revealing the truth, that he didn't perform the post-mortem.

Gaoshun is quick to get between the angry man and Maomao.

Maomao's theory is that Suirei concocted a strong poison, containing thornapple, that made her appear dead, but later when the affects wore off, she had help from her coconspirators to replace her body with someone else's and escape. We get another glimpse of our mysterious man. To be able to get in and out they disguised Suirei as a vendor.

Jinshi thinks it's crazy to risk taking such a dangerous poison. Maomao is quick to admit she would do it. And Jinshi knows her all too well, because he says she would do it simply for the pleasure of it.

Maomao has some professional respect for Suirei and all the skills, planning, and daring it took to pull this off. Maomao seems a bit unhinged here; she laughs maniacally as she considers how to get the elixir recipe from Suirei.

Then she quickly switches affect to sweetly ask if she may have her leg restitched. And for as much as he likes Maomao, sometimes Jinshi really doesn't know what the hell he's suppose to do with this girl, because he's completely exasperated that she would wait so long to mention that her leg is bleeding. But of course she waited. She will always put her own well being behind everything else.

Oh. Concubine Loulan. We haven't seen her in quite awhile. She has one of her attendants whisper in her ear and we see her eye narrow for just a moment. Was she receiving word about Suirei? Is Lady Loulan involved in this scheme somehow? Why come at Jinshi?

Jinshi is sitting up alone at night thinking. We've seen him do this before and find something to smile about. This time, he's pensive, troubled. Thinking about the mystery that is Suirei; how she came into the palace and what her motives were.

Then we have the greatest conversation ever between Jinshi and Gaoshun with so many wonderful twists and turns.

Gaoshun comes in to share a drink with Jinshi after tending to Maomao. Jinshi has been thinking a lot about Maomao, and particularly about what to do about Lakan.

Gaoshun drinks first, testing for poison or an aphrodisiac? Just what does Jinshi have to drink here that tastes so bad? Gaoshun claims that Jinshi need not drink it, but Jinshi claims it is his duty as a eunuch??? Okay man...

Gaoshun teases Jinshi for acting like a child by holding his nose. I wish Gaoshun would get off that already. It's so fucking patronizing. And I know Jinshi has responsibilities and expectations and all that shit, so he has to behave a certain way in public, but does Gaoshun really have to enforce all of that when it's just the two of them relaxing at home?

Jinshi tells us here that "Jinshi" the eunuch is 24 years old, and that "Jinshi" is a persona he uses to operate in the Rear Palace.

Alright, okay, so Jinshi takes this... concoction to suppress his manhood. I'm trying to figure out mechanically exactly what that means, and I think I know, but wow. What a thing to do to yourself. Gaoshun threatens that this stuff will one day make Jinshi impotent. Maybe, quit taking it then? Like why is Jinshi risking it? Is this really expected of him? Like, what if something happened to the current emperor while he doesn't have an heir? Wouldn't the empire need to Jinshi as their back up? Why would he even be permitted to risk impotency before the line of succession is secure? It's really fricking odd to me.

What is wrong inside Jinshi's head or life that this is something he does?

We learn that Gaoshun is a GILF grandfather. And that anger-management nightmare Basan is about to wreck some lady's life with marriage. He's only 19, like Jinshi.

Jinshi is only fucking 19? He's, like, just barely an adult. Still a teenager. What a horrible world he lives in, that it would crush this young man with so much responsibility before he has even lived two decades. I want cry, and wrap him up safe and warm and make him some soup. Is it okay that I just want to mother this young man? Can we get Ah-Duo back?

Gaoshun wants to retire, but he can't do it until he sees Jinshi settled. Jinshi says he'll do his best. But at this pace, it's going to take him 10 more years to marry Maomao, so hopefully Gaoshun's grandkids won't be completely grown by the time he gets to meet them.

Oh Lady Loulan can speak! I've never heard her use words before. And Jinshi is sparkling. I feel sick when I see it now. Loulan is constantly changing her look to the point that the emperor cannot recognize her, and I'm sorry what? That's weird enough to be important.

We learn that at least the current emperor isn't a fucking pedophile like his own father was.

Oh Jinshi.... doesn't know about the baby switch? What the hell? I was convinced he did know. So how did Lady Ah-Duo treat him? I mean he went over to her palace to drink with her alone. The emperor really thinks Jinshi is his little brother huh? Who does know about Jinshi's true identity then? Just me? Do I even know? Have I gotten something mixed up here?

Jinshi wonders why the emperor hasn't fathered a new crown prince already. Yeah like what the hell? He didn't even have another wife after Lady Ah-Duo lost her uterus, until he inherited the throne and the Rear Palace. He's got at least 4 main wives, 2 that he doesn't touch, and 2 that he definitely does. And also, like, all the other lesser ranked ladies of the harem. What is this guy doing? Or rather not doing?

Jinshi sounds like he would like a prince to come along so he could gtfo of the line of succession and do his own thing.

Speaking of babies. Lady Gyokuyou is looking exhausted and... pregnant? Yup she's preggo. And Maomao gets to go be a midwife! Yay!

It seems every time Maomao puts down roots she is ripped away to go some place else. This time she literally put down roots when she planted her herb garden. She's come to enjoy this life here, and the people in her orbit. And being near Jinshi. But now, who knows when she will be able to come back.

So why send Maomao away? Is Jinshi concerned after the assassination attempt that it's too dangerous to keep Maomao close? Does he see sending Maomao to the Rear Palace as a way to keep her out of Lakan's grasp? Is this because of Jinshi's conversation with Gaoshun? Does he intend to get serious about finding a wife, one who isn't Maomao?

Maomao is comforted by the thought that she will be away from Lakan, and wonders if this is Jinshi's way of looking out for her. For sure it is. As much as Jinshi would like to keep Maomao around , he will always let her go if he thinks it is better for her. He did it before when he fired her from the Rear Palace the first time.

I am a little excited for Maomao to reunite with the ladies of the Jade Pavilion, even if it means more space between her and Jinshi.

Wow, Lady Gyokuyou's baby has gotten big. How much time has passed? I was thinking a year, but maybe it's closer to two or three? Maomao sees the emperor enjoying some family time and thinks there may be more to him than she thought. I can't read that guy at all. Maomao spares a thought for how difficult the emperor's position is politically with his concubines.

Lihaku is at Verdigris House and he over hears the news that one of the princesses is about to be bought out and he's terrified that it's the one he's in love with. I may care about Lihaku's personal problems some day, but it's not today.

To start at the beginning: Episode 1

Next Episode

Coming Soon!

[recentanimenews]

J-Novel Club Licenses Five New Light Novels and a Pair of Manga

  J-Novel Club held a fresh announcement livestream on November 13, taking the opportunity to reveal five new light novel series with immediate digital launches, as well as two new manga titles that are both set to launch next week.

  Here's a breakdown of what was revealed, starting with the two light novels that are officially live now on the subscription service. 

  The Apothecary Diaries 

by Natsu Hyuuga with Illustrations by Touko Shino 

    Synopsis:

In the East is a land ruled by an emperor, whose consorts and serving women live in a sprawling complex known as the hougong, the rear palace. Maomao, an unassuming girl raised in an unassuming town by her apothecary father, never imagined the rear palace would have anything to do with her—until she was kidnapped and sold into service there. 

  Though she looks ordinary, Maomao has a quick wit, a sharp mind, and an extensive knowledge of medicine. That’s her secret, until she encounters a resident of the palace at least as perceptive as she is: the head eunuch, Jinshi. He sees through Maomao’s façade and makes her a lady-in-waiting to none other than the Emperor’s favorite consort… so she can taste the lady’s food for poison! At her lady’s side, Maomao starts to learn about everything that goes on in the rear palace—not all of it seemly. Can she ever lead a quiet life, or will her powers of deduction and insatiable curiosity bring her ever more adventures, and ever more dangers?

  The Ideal Sponger Life 

by Tsunehiko Watanabe with Illustrations by Jyuu Ayakura 

    Synopsis:

Yamai Zenjirou is your everyday office worker in modern Japan. One morning, he suddenly finds himself summoned to a tropical world where dinosaurs roam the land. He is told that this is the kingdom of Capua and the person who summoned him - its monarch, Queen Aura - wants him to marry her and leave his old life behind for a life of carefree extravagance as her prince consort. The reasons for her offer are many and varied, but she needs an heir, and she wants him to be the one to provide it! 

  If he accepts, he’ll never have to work again, lazing around in luxury with no worries other than securing the kingdom its next monarch. Certainly, sleeping with the buxom beauty is far from a hardship, but is everything really as it seems? He’ll also need to give up everything he knows on Earth. Is he ready to drop it all at a moment’s notice for her sake? And how well will he be able to navigate the politics, people and culture of this new world if he does?

  My Friend’s Little Sister Has It In for Me! 

by Ghost Mikawa with Illustrations by tomari

    Synopsis:

If a girl teases you, that means she likes you!

  Unfortunately, Akiteru knows from experience that isn’t the case. Because every girl he interacts with shows him nothing but scorn, and he’s not scored a single date from it! Luckily, he’s more concerned with securing a spot for him and his game-development buddies at his uncle’s business. But when his uncle throws him a condition that involves playing the part of his daughter’s boyfriend, Akiteru has no choice but to take it.

  What will his best friend’s sister Iroha, who bullies him relentlessly, think of the news? Find out in My Friend's Little Sister Has It in for Me!

  Are You Okay With a Slightly Older Girlfriend? 

by Kota Nozomi with Illustrations by Meruchi Nanase

    Synopsis:

First-year highschool student Momota Kaoru just saved a beautiful highschool girl, Orihara Hime, from a train molester. One thing leads to another, and they end up going on a date! They have a lot in common: they both love video games, they both jam to their favorite songs on mixtapes, they were even both born in the Year of the Snake.

  Except... Orihara’s first game console used cartridges... and her old mixtapes are all on MiniDisc... and, oh, her birthday is actually 12 years before Momota’s!

  When her secret comes out, she thinks it must all be over... but will Momota really let something like a little age gap get in the way of his love for Orihara? Find out if love really can transcend generations in this sugar-sweet romantic comedy!

  She’s the Cutest… But We’re Just Friends!

by Akamitsu Awamura with Illustrations by mmu

    Synopsis:

Kai Nakamura has the average range of otaku hobbies for a high school boy, but the buddy he shares them with is far from ordinary... Kai’s best friend in the whole world is Jun Miyakawa, his classmate known as a super hottie.

  Though Kai and Jun just met when they enrolled in high school, they hit it off with passion for all the same hobbies! When they’re together, the pair never have enough hours in the day. Kai and Jun can’t get enough of each other’s company as they chat about video games and manga or sing anime songs at karaoke.

  Love is fleeting, but friendship is forever in this "just friends" rom-com filled with flirty fun!

  The two manga titles below will launch on J-Novel Club next week.

  Der Werwolf: The Annals of Veight ~Origins~ 

by Yuuchi Kosumi / Original Novel by Hyougetsu 

    Synopsis:

Veight was reincarnated as a werewolf mage, and is now the Vice-Commander of the Demon Lord’s third regiment. His task seemed simple: capture and hold a remote commercial city. But the tension caused by mankind and demonfolk coexisting is the source of endless conflict. As a former human himself, he’ll need to leverage his ability to understand both sides in order to work with the human viceroy and maintain order!

  Welcome to Japan, Ms. Elf! 

by Shimo Aono / Original Novel by Makishima Suzuki 

    Synopsis:

Kazuhiro has one hobby, sleeping. His career and social life come second. Since his youth, he's spent his nights dreaming of adventures in a wondrous world. On an evening like any other, he heads out to explore an ancient ruin with an elf friend of his. Their investigations soon get put to an end when they are doused with a dragon's fiery breath. Waking up from his dream, he finds those dreams may not be as imaginary as he thought! Join Kazuhiro and his elf friend on new adventures, this time in Japan!

  Source: Press release

    -------

Joseph Luster is the Games and Web editor at Otaku USA Magazine. You can read his brand new comic, MONSTER FLIGHT, at subhumanzoids. Follow him on Twitter @Moldilox. 

By: news+feed@crunchyroll.com