Hey guys and girls, this is the penultimate episode and we’re greeted to Sukeroku as he told Yakumo Yurakutei… that he’s dead in his sleep.
This is not a dream by the way, it’s the afterlife! And yes, I was shocked on that revelation.
Of course, Sukeroku won’t take Yakumo Yurakutei to the Sanzu River right away as he wants his friend to enjoy the festivities before ascending into heaven.
C’mon, staying at the purgatory without the stalls and shops to entertain souls is pretty grim! Also, Yakumo turned back into a young man for this occasion.
On the other hand, looks like Miyokichi has returned but it seems that she’s not the scorned woman that I know of.
In fact, she mellowed out and somewhat forgive Yakumo Yurakutei for being possessive towards him. Then again, Yakumo apologized to both Miyokichi and Sukeroku for not saving them.
Still, it’s all good now that Miyokichi has matured into a respectable woman. Too bad that her only regret was not taking good care of Konatsu, but I digress that as she became a fine woman as well thanks to Yakumo Yurakutei!
And speaking of the 8th Generation Yakumo, he became an old man again as he perform Jugemu in front of a large group of wandering souls, waiting their time to ascend and leave the human world behind.
On the other hand, looks like Shinnosuke went to see his adoptive grandfather perform his favorite story together with Sukeroku, Miyokichi, and Konatsu. Wait, is Shin-chan and Konatsu dead too or they’re just dreaming?
Still, it was a great show for the 8th Generation Yakumo Yurakutei as he finally realized that Yakumo loves rakugo much like his disciple Yotarou!
But now, it’s time for him to move across the Sanzu River alone as he say good-bye to Sukeroku!
Of course, Yakumo Yurakutei won’t go alone on his journey towards heaven…
…as it turns out that Matsuda-san will be joining Master Yakumo on going to the other side.
Yes, it seems that Matsuda-san died while taking care of his master for one final time. Oh well, at least Yakumo Yurakutei won’t get lonely on his ascension!
And that’s about it for this week’s episode. Damn, I’m gonna miss Yakumo Yurakutei and Matsuda-san, they had a good life in Earth and it’s sad that they’re be going to the big rakugo theater in the sky!
With that said, I’ll be seeing you next time for the final episode. What’s gonna happen to Yotarou and his family? We’ll find that out, but I’m hoping that the 3rd Generation Sukeroku will have a great career as a rakugoka beyond Showa era!
The Anime Rambler - By Benigmatica 