The wildly popular anime The Apothecary Diaries has captivated viewers with its intricate court intrigue, sharp-witted protagonist Maomao, and the mysterious noble Jinshi. While fans are enthralled by the mystery and drama, many are equally invested in the slow-burning romance between Maomao and Jinshi. However, it seems that the series’ author, Natsu Hyuuga, has a more grounded view of romance in the setting she created, and she is feeling the pressure from fans and loved ones alike.

According to @keiuzuki on X, in a recent interview, Hyuuga shared candid thoughts on the romance subplot. She humorously itted that in a high-stakes palace environment like the one in The Apothecary Diaries, romance feels like a distant concern. With conspiracies, court politics, and survival at the forefront, love does not naturally take center stage. Yet, even with this realistic perspective, the growing demand for romantic development in the story is undeniable, and it is coming from all sides, including her own family.

"My honest opinion on that is that in a situation like this, there is no time for romance (laughs). But if there are not many romantic scenes, people around me tell me to add more of it. Not only the readers, but also my aunt says [Won't they get together soon?], so I am thinking [I'll just add one more romantic scene]. It's almost like I'm being threatened while writing (laughs)."

- Natsu Hyuuga

Caught Between Realism and Reader Expectations

The Apothecary Diaries Creator Has a Lot of Fan Expectations Regarding Maomao and Jinshi

For Hyuuga, writing romance in The Apothecary Diaries is not just about story choice, it is about staying true to the world she’s built. The imperial court is not a place for casual affection, and Maomao, in particular, is not your typical swooning heroine. Her pragmatic and scientific mind does not lend itself easily to the dreamy nature of romance. This makes the development between her and Jinshi deliberately slow, which some fans interpret as frustratingly subtle or lacking.

Despite this, the author faces persistent encouragement to push the romance further. Hyuuga laughingly recounted how even her aunt asks when the two leads will finally become a couple. It is clear that while she respects the pacing and realism of her story, Hyuuga is also very aware of the desire for more romantic tension. This pressure adds a humorous yet relatable layer to her writing process, balancing her creative vision with audience satisfaction.

Romance as a Side Dish, Not the Main Course

The Apothecary Diaries Was Never Meant to be a Full Romance

Hyuuga treats the romantic elements in her story similar to optional seasoning, something added for flavor rather than sustenance. It is an approach that resonates with fans who appreciate the series for its mysteries and grounded storytelling. Still, she acknowledges that completely ignoring the romance is not an option anymore. Whether through a subtle glance or a cleverly placed scene, she has learned to sprinkle in just enough affection between Maomao and Jinshi to keep readers hooked.

This careful compromise shows her respect for the fans without getting rid of her core storytelling intentions. Hyuuga's approach to the Maomao and Jinshi dynamic remains rooted in character authenticity rather than forced intimacy. Romance, in her view, should evolve naturally and not simply because readers demand it. That said, the occasional “threat”, or really request, from eager ers may continue to nudge her into including a few more heart-fluttering moments in The Apothecary Diaries.

The Push and Pull of Character Dynamics

Despite the Author's Statement, Maomao and Jinshi Have Undeniable Chemistry

One reason fans crave more romance is the undeniable chemistry between Maomao and Jinshi. Their relationship thrives on wit, tension, and unspoken emotions, which is a dynamic that teases more than it delivers. Jinshi’s mysterious charm and Maomao’s blunt intellect create a delicious opposites-attract pairing. Their subtle interactions, filled with innuendo and mutual curiosity, give the story a romantic undercurrent that feels rich without being overt.

By keeping their bond ambiguous, Hyuuga maintains suspense while allowing both characters room to grow independently, as The Apothecary Diaries is mainly a drama and mystery series.

Hyuuga’s restraint in their romantic progression is intentional. By keeping their bond ambiguous, Hyuuga maintains suspense while allowing both characters room to grow independently, as The Apothecary Diaries is mainly a drama and mystery series. This slow-burn tactic not only gives the story more emotional payoff but also keeps fans constantly speculating about what lies beneath their sharp exchanges and meaningful silences.

The Apothecary Diaries is Letting the Romance Simmer

Hyuuga Is Choosing to Take the Romance Slow On Purpose

As The Apothecary Diaries continues to grow in popularity, Hyuuga is finding new ways to navigate the delicate art of romantic development. Rather than dramatically shifting the tone of the story, she opts for a more nuanced approach, with a brush of the hand here and a loaded conversation there. These moments feel more authentic in a world where open affection could have political consequences or even endanger lives.

Still, Hyuuga its that outside pressure plays a role in how and when she includes these romantic beats. Whether it is a suggestion from a reader or a casual nudge from a relative, the idea that Maomao and Jinshi must move forward lingers in the background. But if the romance continues to unfold at a glacial pace, it is because the author believes that, in The Apothecary Diaries' world of secrets and schemes, even love must play the long game.

Source: @keiuzuki/X