I don’t know if Suirei understands exactly how many powerful and capable people she’s bringing down on herself by kidnapping Maomao, but she’s about to find out, lol (and it’s more than usual with Luomen in the palace). Not sure if it’s related or just a simultaneous scheme, but Lakan’s taunting of Shishou was great - it’s clear he’s testing some theories (like with the juice) and setting up some bait to see if he’ll take it (I don’t believe for a second that the interrogation was botched).

Meanwhile, I’ve been suspicious for a while that Shisui has some connection with Loulan (they look too similar), but now we’ve got a more direct hint. My guess currently is that she’s Loulan’s alter ego she uses to run around the palace freely, but she may instead be her sister or some other relative or a backup/body-double or something.

I haven’t seen this yet, but I’m off to watch and soon back to discuss!

ETA: Well there were some abrupt revelations, but mostly setup for the next episode or two, I think. Good, but I’m more excited for what follows.

This episode is the reason why I love The Apothecary Diaries.