AsThe Apothecary Diariesprepares for its third anime season, fans are coming to terms with a major character absence. Shisui (also known as Concubine Loulan when using that disguise), a fan-favorite figure known for her chemistry with Maomao, will no longer be part of the story moving forward, even though her fate is far more ambiguous than it seems.
Shisui’s heartwrenching exit in season 2 was emotional but misleading. Though the show faked her death, the finale episode of season2 confirms that she survives, but vanishes from the narrative entirely after Light Novel 4. Her disappearance is not just the end of an amazing and mysterious character arc; it is the end of one of the story’s most beloved duos.
Official Artwork Gives Fans the Maomao-Shisui Moment They Missed
A Bittersweet Goodbye in a Single Image from The Apothecary Diaries
While Shisui does not return in the novels or upcoming season 3 episodes, a recent piece of official artwork gave fans something they may not ever see in the anime again. This was an an image of Maomao and Shisui happily together. The image shows a gentle moment between the two, with Maomao smiling as Shisui reaches out for a warm hug.
This rare visual hit fans right in the feelings. Despite not sharing any scenes after season 2,Maomao and Shisui’s bond remains a highlight of the early arcs.The art taps into that nostalgia, offering a quiet farewell to a friendship that resonated deeply with viewers.
Shisui’s Quiet Exit Leaves a Big Hole in Season 3
Why The Apothecary Diaries Is Moving On Without Shisui
Shisui’s absence from Light Novel 5, and by extension,season 3 ofThe Apothecary Diariesanime, is not due to a lack of popularity. She is simply written out of the main narrative after her escape from the palace, presumed dead by the court. While her survival is shown at the end of season 2, she does not reappear, and her story is left where it stands.
This decision frustrates fans who appreciated her contrast with Maomao. Shisui’s elegance and quiet resilience played perfectly off Maomao’s pragmatism and sarcasm. Losing her means losing a unique dynamic that brought balance to the palace’s drama and intrigue. Whether her removal is for better pacing or narrative focus, it still stings. Shisui may be gone, but thanks tomoments like the recent artwork forThe Apothecary Diaries, she will not be forgotten.
