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.

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...?