Akane-banashi

The Karaku Cup finals. Following Karashi, voice actress Takaragi Hikaru takes the stage. Determined to change the current situation where voice actors are often judged on their looks rather than their acting ability, Hikaru enters the Karaku Cup and presents a human interest story that will allow her to showcase her expressive abilities. Coincidentally, the story she performs is "Shibahama," the same story that Shinta performed in his promotion exam to master rakugo performer six years ago. Hikaru's passionate performance electrifies the audience. In that atmosphere, it is finally Akane's turn to take the stage.

Unlike the preliminary rounds where she showcased her sharp wit and skill, Akane's performance in the main competition was a relatively understated rendition of "Jugemu." Karashiya Hikaru wondered if she had given up, but in reality, it was a rakugo-style approach that was pleasing to the audience, who were caught up in the excitement of the competition. By empathizing with the character's emotions and using a non-pushy delivery, Akane naturally drew the audience into the story, gradually reaching a certain level of mastery.

At a roundtable discussion, Akane confronts Issei Aragawa and directly asks him about the reason for Shinta's expulsion. Issei dismisses the surrounding reporters and sees through Akane's deception, realizing that she is a disciple of Shiguma. As Akane falters, Issei finally begins to explain the true meaning behind the expulsion incident six years ago, a topic he had never addressed before. What thoughts will arise in Akane's mind as she learns the reason for her father's expulsion, a question she has long sought...?

After winning the Karaku Cup, Akane suddenlybecomes the center of attention at her high school. However, Akane's feelings are complicated, as she feels she hasn't quite reached the level of impressing everyone. As graduation day approaches, her friends are inspired by Akane's success and begin to pursue their own dreams. Meanwhile, Shiguma ponders what stage name to give Akane when she officially becomes an apprentice after graduation. Akane, too, reflects on the origin of her own name and her father, Shinta.