Synopsis: Akane-banashi

Mastering the traditional art of rakugo storytelling and becoming a shinuchi takes years of practice as an apprentice. Akane Osaki has been fascinated by her father Tooru's rakugo performances since she was young, learning from him by watching through a sliding door. Tooru is close to achieving the highest rank in rakugo, but faces a challenging promotion test in front of the respected Issho Arakawa. Despite his passionate performance, Tooru is expelled from the school after the exam, causing him to lose interest in rakugo and disappointing Akane. Driven by grief and anger, Akane aims to seek revenge for her father's unjust removal from the rakugo community. She asks Shiguma Arakawa, Tooru's former master, to teach her rakugo. However, Shiguma is hesitant due to what happened with Tooru in the past. To prove herself as a worthy rakugo performer, Shiguma challenges Akane to perform in front of a live audience.