あかね噺 [Akane-banashi] #18

A pivotal volume in this acclaimed rakugo drama, the cover of *Akane-banashi* #18 presents a sharply rendered older man in traditional Japanese attire, his expression cool and guarded behind a raised hand — radiating the kind of quiet authority that has defined this series' compelling cast of masters and rivals. Published by Shueisha in 2025, this Jump Comics release continues the story of the world of classical Japanese storytelling with the nuanced character work fans have come to love.