Square Enix to License Xiaolan's The Apothecary Diary Spin-Off Manga

Square Enix Manga & Books has announced that The Apothecary Diaries: Xiaolan’s Story manga will be licensed for print in English. The first volume is available for pre-order and is set for release on October 6, 2026.

The Apothecary Diaries spin-off is written by original light novel author Natsu Hyuuga, illustrated by Itsuki Nanao, and with character designs by Touco Shino. It follows the story of Xiaolan, Maomao's closest friend in the inner place. The series is currently published digitally on Manga UP! and is described as:

Discover The Apothecary Diaries from Xiaolan's perspective in novelist Natsu Hyūga's official spin-off story!

Though born into poverty, Xiaolan was content with her simple life caring for her siblings. But out of desperation, her family was forced to make a terrible decision... Sent to the imperial palace as a servant, Xiaolan now spends her days washing laundry and tending to the consorts' needs. She doesn't mind her new lot in life—after all, there's food!—and soon makes friends with another servant, a strange girl named Maomao. Can the two help each other as they find their way in the scheming, status-seeking society of the rear palace?

Also included in Square Enix's announcements for new book releases slated for Fall 2026 are Boyish Girlfriend, My Ex-Boyfriend Loves Boys’ Love, Stalker Stalks Stalker, Yang Can’t Live Alone, My Dress-Up Darling XOXO!, The Princess Groom, My Dress-Up Darling Season 2 Official Anime Fanbook, and The Art of Final Fantasy Tactics.

Source: Square Enix Manga & Books X (Formerly Twitter)
© Itsuki Nanao/ SQUARE ENIX