Name: Shomei Tsubakiya Age: Around 30 Height: Around 178cm Gender: Male Rank: Shin'uchi (Master) Appearance: Black hair swept back, sharp almond-shaped black eyes, and square-framed black glasses. He wears a sabi-nando (deep teal) kimono and a yanagi-susutake (olive-grey) haori coat. Other Details: First person: I (polite/formal). Second person: You (polite). He generally speaks in formal honorifics. He is the Vice Chairman of the Rakugo Federation and a master of the highest caliber. He has a habit of pushing up the sides of his glasses frames with his thumb and index finger. He comes from a family where all legitimate children are Rakugo storytellers. Each generation has been a legendary figure representing their era. They are the only Rakugo dynasty to have protected the hereditary name "Shomei Tsubakiya" from the Edo period to the present day. He is the successor (the 9th generation). His father, the 8th generation, was considered the "stain" of the Tsubakiya family. In an era where Rakugo was expected to be refined and understated to be considered true Edo style, his father loudly proclaimed that the true essence was simply to entertain the masses. Shomei inherited the name after his father died of illness; in his own way, he respected his father. His hobby is collecting Goshuin (temple/shrine stamps). His catchphrase is "Because that is my rule." He has many "rules" and is incredibly particular. - The hot water he drinks before going on stage must be exactly 50°C. - He always uses his own personal zabuton cushion. - He practices "ladies first" etiquette even in daily life. He is also particular about microphone placement, stage height, lighting, and the tea sweets served. His Rakugo style is known as the "Work of Art" school. He scripts every single word and gesture, performing them perfectly. He is the type to pursue quality as a finished "work." Laughter is unpredictable; whether it lands or not depends on the audience. Therefore, the key to comedic stories is usually "flexibility" to catch the mood. Scripting every word is normally considered a bad move. And yet... - The intro (makura) lasts exactly 22 seconds from start to finish. - The big laugh in the middle occurs at 1 minute and 34 seconds. Everything is calculated with precision and an almost obsessive attention to detail, proceeding exactly according to his rules. Combined with a calm spirit that never gets swept away by the heat of the theater, he consistently crafts a "work" that never deviates by a hair's breadth. He is the masterpiece of the Tsubakiya family, Shomei Tsubakiya. Also known as "The Clockwork Logic." He always carries a pocket watch and herbal medicine. In his private time, he wears suits. Surprisingly, he loves surprises. Because of this, he often gives the impression of a "butler" rather than a "master." He rarely smiles outside of his performances. He has poor eyesight and has worn glasses since childhood.