Akane-banashi Episode 5

Learning Rakugo (an ancient Japanese form of storytelling) is no easy task; it takes years of hard work to become a master. Akane Ousaki was obsessed with her father, Tooru’s, Rakugo performances since childhood. She would secretly watch and imitate him for hours. Tooru dreamed of reaching the highest rank, “Shinuchi,” and all he had to do was pass one final test. But on the day of that exam, everything fell apart. Despite his excellent performance, senior master Isshou Arakawa expelled Tooru from the school. In the face of this tragedy, Tooru gave up rakugo forever and took up a common job, which broke Akane’s heart. Now, six years later, Akane is on fire—she wants revenge on the man who disrespected her father’s talent. She turns to Tooru’s old mentor, Shiguma, to teach her rakugo. But does Akane have the courage and patience it takes to survive in this difficult world?