Akane, a third-year high school student, breathes a sigh of relief after finishing her midterm exams, but her relief is short-lived as she receives guidance from her homeroom teacher about her future. And her teacher is none other than Iwashimizu, known as the "Ice Lady." Akane, who aspires to become a rakugo (traditional Japanese storytelling) performer, finds Iwashimizu unwilling to budge, instead advising her to pursue a more realistic path like university. Desperate to convince Iwashimizu to accept her dream, Akane consults with her friends in an attempt to win her over…

The day of the Karaku Cup qualifiers has arrived. This year's focus is on Karashito Renmaya, a university student who has won the Karaku Cup two years in a row, and Hikaru Takaragi, a rising young voice actress. Meanwhile, Kaisei, who is hosting the event, tells reporters that an unknown high school girl named Akane is the favorite to win. Koguma, Guriko, and Iwashimizu are also in the audience, watching over Akane. With such formidable rivals, will Akane be able to win the qualifiers with her "Jugemu" performance?