Akane-banashi #5

Takamasa Moue's artwork is in fine form on this fifth volume of Yuki Suenaga's rakugo drama, presenting a striking pair of characters in traditional Japanese kimono — a fierce, red-eyed young woman with black-and-pink hair pointing boldly at the viewer, backed by a cool, smirking blonde — set against the suggestion of a traditional performance hall. The energy between the two figures crackles with rivalry and determination, perfectly capturing the competitive spirit at the heart of *Akane-banashi*. If you've been following this series about the demanding world of rakugo storytelling, volume 5 looks primed to deliver more of the charged ambition that makes it such a compelling read.