Just when fans thought The Apothecary Diaries had wrapped up its current chapter with the bittersweet end of season two, the franchise has delivered a surprise. A brand-new spin-off manga has been quietly released for global readers and it brings a heartfelt new perspective to the world of the Imperial Palace. Titled The Apothecary Diaries: Xiaolan’s Story, the series offers a deep dive into the past and inner life of one of the show’s most beloved side characters.

Xiaolan quickly became a fan favorite for her charm and loyalty, but her story always felt like it had more to tell. Now, that gap is being filled with a narrative that shines a light on her background, from her difficult early life to her journey into palace service. Fans will get a closer look at how she was sold into the palace and how she shaped her hopes and dreams despite the harsh realities around her.

What makes this spin-off especially important is that it is not just a filler or side project. The manga is written by Natsu Hyuga, the original creator of The Apothecary Diaries, ensuring that every moment and every memory shared in Xiaolan’s story is part of the official canon. This means the emotional beats, backstories, and additional scenes are essential to understanding the bigger picture.

One of the most touching parts of the spin-off is its continuation of Xiaolan’s relationship with Maomao. While Maomao may have left the palace, the story makes it clear that her bond with Xiaolan remains significant. For fans who were moved by their friendship in the anime, the spin-off delivers even more quiet, tender moments between the two. These flashbacks and reflections help to paint a more complete portrait of their shared past.

With The Apothecary Diaries season three still on the horizon, Xiaolan’s Story is a perfect bridge for fans who want to stay connected to the series. It also hints at what may lie ahead for Xiaolan, who was last seen starting a new chapter of her life outside the palace. The spin-off does more than just fill time between seasons. It adds richness and humanity to a character who, until now, lived mostly in the background.

The manga is now available for international audiences through Square Enix’s Manga Up platform. This move makes it one of the rare canon spin-offs to be instantly accessible to fans outside Japan, offering a meaningful way to stay immersed in the world of The Apothecary Diaries.

Follow Anime Insider on Instagram and Facebook for more news, updates, and manga recommendations from your favorite anime universes.