Akane-Banashi, Vol. 2 (manga)

Akane accompanies her senior apprentice Kyoji to a retirement home to perform as his zenza opening act before he takes the stage. Her assignment is to offer rakugo that pleases the audience in front of her. How will Akane be able to prove to Kyoji that she has grown from his training?

Later, she learns about a rakugo competition for students. The presiding judge is none other than Issho Arakawa—the man who banished Akane’s father from the Arakawa school. Desperate to take part in the competition, Akane must first seek permission from Master Shiguma. He allows her to participate under one unique, tongue-twisting condition... “Jugemu.”