REVIEW: ‘The Apothecary Diaries’ Episode 18 — “Lakan”

The Apothecary Diaries Episode 18 is yet another standout in the series. With startling revelations and intricate, spellbinding artistry, “Lakan” is seeped in poorly hidden sorrow as Maomao (Aoi Yûki) tries and fails to bury her past. Throughout its first season, The Apothecary Diaries (Kusuriya no Hitorigoto) continues to prove a formidable adaptation. With a clear sense of direction, stunning visuals, and layered character drama that slowly builds in tension throughout the series, it’s one of the very best released in the past year. Episode 18 continues to build on this patient momentum.

Directed by Mayu Tanimoto and Jun Ōwada, “Lakan” quickly establishes its tone. The color stories of the series remain gorgeous, utilizing strong, contrasting shades in the opening moments. The colors of the vibrant orange lanterns settle warmly against the violet glow cast against the architecture as Maomao and Jinshi (Takeo Otsuka) part ways. Despite the warmth the colors create, it also hints at a sense of foreboding as the lights dim and Maomao enters the next scene, becoming a nightmare.

Lighting is integral to the series, demonstrated immaculately in The Apothecary Diaries Episode 18. Soon after she leaves Jinshi, we see her awaken to a violent nightmare at her home. The sequence with Jinshi bleeds into the nightmarish, garish green as we see the silhouette of a woman holding a blade above what is, assumingly, young Maomao. It’s just one instance of revelation for the character who, up until this point, has been relatively unknowable. We know where she grew up, and she’s persistent in informing us of her low status, but she holds her cards close to her chest. Her enthusiasm tapers, and her tone becomes monotonous if it isn’t related to herbs and medicine. It’s a credit then to Ali Yabusaki — especially in this episode — for how much reveals itself when that mask slides.

We see it slip throughout the episode as she struggles to gain her bearings following the conversation with Jinshi about how a courtesan’s value can decrease. She takes care of a mysterious woman at the Verdigris house who has become incapacitated from syphilis. Later, she must hide when a “weirdo with a monocle” arrives, viewers at this point able to decipher that the man is Lakan (Takuya Kirimoto). Until Maomao returns home, she’s confronting emotions she’d rather keep tucked away. In a revealing moment, she confesses to believing she’s left the feeling of being loved behind her. Pairing this moment of introspection with the other courtesans of the Verdigris house doting on her is telling. She may believe love is a thing of her past, but there’s no denying the many people who adore her.

It’s why Lakan’s interference is so concerning. Inherently repulsive thus far, he continues to barter with Jinshi over her. Luckily, Jinshi isn’t having it, mainly when Lakan refers to Maomao as a “prize” that Jinshi stole away from him. The moment, though, reveals something critical to the series in the relationship between Maomao and Lakan, something that will undoubtedly change the dynamics moving forward. When Jinshi suggests that Maomao and Lakan speak, Jinshi is so horrified by Maomoa’s shock and distress that he immediately withdraws the request.

Despite everything in the episode, so much of it feels like a setup. The episode never loses itself despite the introduction of new characters and new relationships. Written by Hitomi Ogawa, “Lakan” is a tightly woven episode possessing intriguing insight and an even greater setup. Instead, this character-driven installment simply sets the table for more excellent mystery. As all of this is happening to Maomao, Jinshi is preparing for something that she can’t decipher. From a necessary vegetarian pallet to burning incense, Jinshi is taking part in rituals that usually those of nobility would take part in. We’ve yet to see the payoff of his actions, but Maomao struggles to grapple with what she sees of Jinshi and how he acts.

The Apothecary Diaries Episode 18 is a gorgeous, visually arresting installment. With a mix of style and tones ranging from horror to straight comedy, “Lakan” overflows with all that makes this series a must-watch. Packed with mystery and character-defining moments, the episode pushes against our expectations of these characters, particularly Maomao. Beyond the story and the increasingly layered narrative, the animation and direction continue to surprise and stun. Its bold artistry and peculiarity perfectly match the bold, peculiar characters at its heart.

The Apothecary Diaries Season 1 is streaming now on Crunchyroll.