The captivating series The Apothecary Diaries has yet to delve into a significant flashback revealing Maomao’s early years. Nonetheless, the first season offers intriguing insights into her familial ties, particularly highlighting the complex dynamics between Maomao and her father, Lakan. Central to this narrative is the enigmatic figure of Maomao’s mother. So, who exactly is she, and what events shaped her fate?
Exploring Maomao’s Mother: A Dive into Her Past
Fengxian, Maomao’s mother, held the esteemed position of a high-ranking consort at the Verdigris Palace, located in the Red Light District. Her journey took a tragic turn after she fell in love with Lakan and gave birth to their child, only to be left to navigate the harsh realities of life alone. As her circumstances worsened, Fengxian’s health deteriorated, ultimately leading Lakan to fight for her freedom from the grips of the Verdigris Palace.
Disclaimer: This article contains potential spoilers from the manga and light novel series and reflects the author’s personal views.
The History of Fengxian: An Intriguing Backstory
Years prior to the events seen in The Apothecary Diaries, Fengxian earned acclaim as a high-ranking consort renowned for her beauty and her talent in strategic board games. This unique skill drew the attention of Lakan, who was captivated by her competitive spirit, which eventually influenced his role as a tactician in the Imperial Palace.
As their bond deepened through daily interactions, Lakan found himself unable to purchase Fengxian’s freedom because of his financial constraints. Unbeknownst to him, Fengxian had begun to develop feelings for him as well. In a desperate attempt to lessen her price, she conceived Lakan’s child, Maomao, hoping it would motivate him to secure her liberty.
Unfortunately, Lakan was sent away during this crucial time to cultivate his skills, leaving Fengxian in a state of neglect. She ultimately bore Maomao and was expelled from the Verdigris Palace due to her pregnancy, leading her to roam the streets in search of Lakan. It was during this period that she contracted syphilis, plunging her into a downward spiral of mental instability. In her despair, she leaned on her daughter, Maomao, for solace.
Three years following this tumultuous period, Lakan received a letter from Fengxian, which contained a severed pinky finger — a haunting reminder of a promise made between them. Rushing to the Verdigris Palace, he learned that Fengxian had vanished.
In a twist of fate, years later, Maomao challenged Lakan to a game of Go. When she emerged victorious, her wager was for him to purchase a consort from the Verdigris Palace. However, unbeknownst to her, the consorts had already planned to part ways with Fengxian. Coincidentally, Lakan arrived at the Palace just as a familiar lullaby echoed—a song that sparked memories of his time with Fengxian.
Pursuing the sound, he found her in a starkly diminished state, playing Go alone and singing. Despite her dire condition, he recognized the beauty he had once adored. Moved by love and nostalgia, Lakan offered a fortune to free Fengxian, ultimately making her his wife.
Contrasting Sources: The Diverging Narratives of Fengxian’s Fate
While fans of the anime witness the emotionally charged story of Fengxian marrying Lakan, the original source materials present different outcomes. In the web novel, Fengxian tragically dies on the streets prior to Lakan’s return. More heartbreakingly, the light novel adapts also reveals that she perishes soon after their marriage. In contrast, the latest anime and manga adaptations leave her fate ambiguous, suggesting she may still be alive, as Lakan is shown to provide her with love and support.