Asexual people – also known as “Aces” – may have little interest in having sex, but still desire emotionally intimate relationships. So is Jinshi from The Apothecary Diaries an ace?
The Apothecary Diaries spoilers ahead!
Summary
- Jinshi is not actually a eunuch.
- Jinshi is not an asexual.
- Jinshi has a sexual interest in Maomao.
Is Jinshi asexual?
Some claim yes — the main character has this trait of personality.
A beautiful man runs most of the palace administration. Both men and women are attracted to his appearance, but Jinshi finds himself attracted to Maomao, the only person who does not love him unconditionally.
Jinshi’s a eunuch. But this does not stop him from feeling for the main character, because in a relationship sex is far from the main attribute – asexuals are known to put feelings first. Sex, as such, is of little or no interest to them.
So how do we know that Jinshi is asexual?
Actually, he is not.
In China, the term eunuch generally refers to a man who has been castrated just to serve a specific social function – they're going to be palace servants, and the Emperor didn’t want them to be seen near or in his harem. Castration included removal of the penis as well as the testicles. Both organs were cut off with a knife at the same time. In chapter 34, it is revealed that Jinshi is not a eunuch. In fact, Maomao squishies Jinshi's privates, and discovers something that eunuchs shouldn't have.
Jinshi is actually the Emperor's son and the crown prince. There’s no guarantee he will sit on the throne, but if so, he doesn’t need to be castrated as he is royalty. Later in the novels, he has to get married. Moreover, he actually pursues sexual contact with Maomao.
Any examples of aces in anime?
Here are some examples for you to understand the real identity of asexuals.
Levi - Attack on Titan
Levi completely ignores any romantic relationship. Having experienced many losses, he just can't stop living as an eternal soldier. Although he mentions in his conversation with Zeke that girls loved him, he doesn't talk about whether he loved anyone or not. We definitely can't picture him in a wedding suit or holding hands with someone cute.
Haruhi Fujioka - Ouran High School Host Club
Haruhi is in a circle of attractive young men, at least three of whom are actively attempting to win her affection. But she shows no interest in any form of romance, either toward men or women. That’s why fans are sure she is either asexual, aromantic or both.
Haruka Nanase - Free!
One of the main characters appears thick-headed when it comes to sexuality or romance stuff. Why? It’s simple. Swimming – not people – is and always has been his passion. Swimming is Haruka’s love story that many are looking for.
You may think Haruka just has no time for romance, but keep one thing in mind. The anime is full of fanservice, where the majority of characters are constantly touching one another. But Haruka doesn’t. He prefers not to touch anyone or be touched. It's very telling.