The Apothecary Diaries Season 3 Episode 5 Recap: The White-Snake Immortal

In the fifth episode of The Apothecary Diaries Season 3, titled “The White-Snake Immortal,” Maomao investigates a mysterious sorceress known as the White Lady who performs at a theater frequented by high-ranking officials. Accompanied by Lahan and his subordinate Rikuson, Maomao attends the show to observe the performer’s methods after her father, Lakan, expressed concern over recent events. During the performance, the White Lady executes several illusions, including transmuting copper into silver and gold, while correctly identifying a number written by Maomao.

Maomao deduces that the tricks rely on chemical and sensory manipulation rather than supernatural power. She determines that the apparent metal transmutation is actually plating achieved through fire, while the vanishing ink trick utilizes salt mixed with the writing medium. The ability to guess the correct tube containing Maomao’s note stems from the White Lady’s sensitive hearing; she detects specific high-pitched frequencies emitted by a flute-like contraption hidden beneath the stage. Additionally, Maomao identifies mercury in the drink served at the end, noting its potential as both a medicine and a poison.