Released on March 11, 2025, The Apothecary Diaries Season 2, Episode 14 dives into the captivating mystery of the “dancing ghost”at the Diamond Pavilion. The episode follows Maomao and Jinshi as they investigate the curious apparition that has been alarming the local ladies of the court. Upon a thorough examination, Maomao uncovers that the ghostly sighting is simply a curtain reacting to a breeze, enhanced by a face reflected from a copper mirror.
The narrative also shifts its focus to a group of newly appointed eunuchs who voice concerns about their treatment by the local ladies-in-waiting. In a bid to address their grievances, Jinshi steps in to assure them of a relocation that would better utilize their talents. As the episode wraps up, an error made by Xiaolan leads to the unfortunate spilling of a eunuch’s ice, which was intended for a high-ranking consort—potentially compromising her standing within the palace.
Disclaimer: This article includes potential spoilers for the anime series and reflects the author’s viewpoints.
Episode Overview: Unveiling the Illusion of the “Dancing Ghost”
This episode, titled “Dancing Ghost,” opens with Maomao facing reprimand from her fellow lady-in-waiting for accepting a case that originated outside the Jade Pavilion. Soon enough, Jinshi arrives to investigate the peculiar case reported at the Diamond Pavilion, setting the stage for the supernatural mystery that ensues.
As the plot unfolds, both Jinshi and Lady Gyokuyou engage in a discussion regarding Maomao’s autonomy in the investigation. The episode effectively explores the tension stemming from a prior awkward incident between Maomao and Jinshi during a field trip. After securing permission, Maomao and Jinshi proceed to the Diamond Pavilion, eager to unravel the ghostly enigma.
Upon arrival, they are greeted by Lady Lishu, who recounts her terrifying experience of witnessing a ghostly figure dancing near the storeroom adjacent to the bathhouse. As the tension rises, the other ladies-in-waiting begin to undermine Lady Lishu, labeling her as an attention seeker. To diffuse the situation, Jinshi requests tea, allowing the scandalous gossipers to leave and providing Maomao the space to conduct her investigation.
With the ladies-in-waiting occupied, Maomao examines the pavilion’s architecture and requests the blueprints. Her analytical skills lead her to the hypothesis that the spectral image may be fabricated rather than a true ghost. To confirm this, she asks Lady Lishu whether the bath plug was removed after use. Upon confirmation, the pieces of the puzzle start to align.
Maomao’s deductions reveal that water flow from the bath to underground channels caused steam to escape in the storeroom, resulting in the curtains’ movement. The supposedly spectral visage was, in fact, a reflection cast by a cherished copper mirror. Just as Maomao concludes her assessment, the other ladies-in-waiting return, and a confrontation emerges over the mirror’s ownership, intensifying the episode’s drama.
Jinshi intervenes decisively, reclaiming a prized hairpin from the head lady-in-waiting and reminding her of the respect owed to Lady Lishu. The episode also highlights an emerging subplot with the recent admission of eunuchs, who express feelings of maltreatment. Following the investigation, Jinshi takes the time to reassure them of their relocation to a more suitable environment.
As the episode winds down, viewers witness a chaotic moment where Xiaolan accidentally tips over a eunuch’s cart laden with ice intended for a high-ranking consort. The potential consequences of this blunder raise the stakes, echoing the precarious nature of life within the palace walls.