The Apothecary Diaries - LN 14
The Apothecary Diaries Volume 14 by Natsu Hyuuga, Illustrations by Touko Shino. Translated by Kevin Steinbach. Published by J-Novel Club.
We're finally back to Maomao's perspective this volume. There are a few light mysteries, but most of the intrigue of this book was the background politicking.
We get to see how the "Named Clans" meeting proceeds, as Lahan drags Maomao into the proceedings for the La Clans's benefit. Taomei also works hard to setup the match between Basen and Lishu, and we see Lahan's Brother (Kan Junjie) finally show off his husband-potential. Unfortunately, he ends up interested in the wrong person!
Spoilers
I know that En'en is basically in love with Yao, but I also think it would be really cute if she caught feelings for Junjie, since he fits En'en's criteria for an "ideal master". Yao even told her in the last book that En'en should marry that "ideal master" herself! Yao meanwhile, is making zero progress with Lahan, but honestly I'm not expecting anything there. (RIP Yao, hopefully you have better taste next time LOL)We also get further into the mystery of the Book of Kada, and learn a bit more about Tianyu's family and Joka's role in all of this.
It seems like similar to how one of the overarching threats of the last arc was the locust plague, this time it will probably be smallpox. This has been hinted at ever since the introduction of Kokuyou, the weird doctor with the scars that Maomao helped on the way back from Western Capital (the first time). I'm curious to see how they might implement a large scale vaccination program, as that would be the only realistic solution to avoiding economic and human loss from such a disaster.
I also appreciated learning more about Suiren, and seeing Lihaku and Basen's friendship in this book. As always, this book flew by quickly, and I'll be eagerly waiting for the next one in September.