Fengming is one of the central figures in The Apothecary Diaries, also known as Kusuriya no Hitorigoto, and her journey is nothing short of captivating. At first glance, she appears to be just another palace maid, but as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Fengming is much more than that. After being wrongfully accused of a crime and thrust into servitude, she finds herself navigating the complex and often dangerous world of the imperial court—armed only with her intelligence, resilience, and deep knowledge of medicine.

Now, what really sets Fengming apart is how she manages to thrive despite her circumstances. Even though she starts off in a vulnerable position, Fengming quickly proves that she’s not someone to underestimate. Her background as an apothecary gives her a unique edge, allowing her to gain the trust of the imperial concubines by tending to their health with unmatched precision. And let’s be honest—her sharp mind and attention to detail don’t go unnoticed. Fengming doesn’t just follow orders; she observes, analyzes, and anticipates problems before they arise.

It’s fascinating to see how Fengming uses her skills not only to survive but to quietly influence the power dynamics within the palace. She’s always thinking several steps ahead, carefully balancing caution with boldness. Of course, this comes with its fair share of risks. The deeper she gets into court politics, the more enemies she makes. But Fengming? She doesn’t back down. Instead, she doubles down on her mission—to uncover the truth, protect those she cares about, and ultimately reclaim her freedom.

Over time, we witness a powerful transformation in Fengming. She evolves from a somewhat naive young woman into someone incredibly strong-willed and fearless. It’s not just her intelligence that shines through, but also her emotional strength and moral compass. And honestly, that’s part of why so many viewers connect with her—she feels real, relatable, and deeply human.

When it comes to personality, Fengming fits the ESFJ type remarkably well. Now, if you’re familiar with personality typology, you’ll know that ESFJs are often described as warm, responsible, and highly attuned to the needs of others—and that’s exactly who Fengming is at her core. She consistently puts others first, whether it’s calming a distressed concubine or quietly ensuring everyone’s well-being behind the scenes. There’s a genuine care in everything she does, and it’s hard not to admire her for that.

Plus, let’s talk about her work ethic. As an apothecary, Fengming is meticulous—every herb measured, every dosage calculated with extreme care. That kind of precision isn’t just skill; it reflects her deep sense of duty. She’s organized, reliable, and capable of juggling multiple responsibilities without missing a beat. All of these traits make her not only effective in her role but also someone others naturally come to depend on.

Then there’s the Enneagram angle, where Fengming clearly aligns with the 6w7 type. This combination explains a lot about her behavior. On one hand, she’s loyal, security-oriented, and values trust above all—classic Type 6 traits. She doesn’t jump into situations blindly; she seeks advice, weighs risks, and looks out for her allies. But on the other hand, there’s that 7 wing adding a spark of spontaneity and optimism. Even in tense moments, Fengming can surprise you with her quick thinking and willingness to take calculated risks when it matters most.

So, when you put it all together—her compassion, her discipline, her loyalty, and that subtle adventurous streak—it’s easy to see why Fengming stands out. She’s not just surviving in a cutthroat environment; she’s shaping her own path with quiet determination. And throughout The Apothecary Diaries, Fengming continues to grow, adapt, and inspire.

In the end, Fengming isn’t just a character—you root for her, you learn from her, and you remember her. Whether it’s her unwavering sense of justice or her ability to stay grounded amid chaos, Fengming leaves a lasting impression. And honestly, that’s what makes her such a compelling protagonist in The Apothecary Diaries.