In this week’s episode of Oshi no Ko Season 2, the focus shifts away from Aqua’s personal drama to spotlight the female characters, particularly Ruby, Akane, and Kana. Titled “The Curtain Rises,” the episode zeroes in on the buildup to the play’s opening night, highlighting the everyday challenges young actors face in the entertainment industry, with minimal supernatural elements.
Aqua, who often wrestles with his own dark issues, finds his troubles compounded by his relationship with Akane. Initially, Aqua seemed to want to shield Akane from his problems, but he underestimates the depth of her own struggles. The episode reveals that Akane, with a disturbing sense of detachment, is eager to support Aqua in his plans, as long as she can achieve her own goal of outshining Kana in the play. This week, the rivalry between Akane and Kana is explored through their acting skills, rather than their romantic entanglements. Their interactions, including a sharp exchange where Kana uses an old magazine interview to gain an upper hand, are depicted with a vibrant and playful energy, showcasing the voice actors’ engaging performances.
Ruby makes a brief return to the story, visiting her brother’s rehearsal. While Aqua is preoccupied with dark conversations with Akane, Ruby encounters Melt and subsequently witnesses a tense scene involving Melt and Sakuya. Sakuya’s harsh criticism of Melt, though justified, makes for a difficult watch, particularly when contrasted with the more lighthearted moments involving Akane and Kana. Ruby’s interaction with Sakuya and Melt highlights her lack of awareness about the potentially troubling dynamics around her.
Ruby also experiences a moment of “Dark Mode” during a comical scenario where Minami imagines exaggerated situations involving Aqua and Akane. This moment underscores Ruby’s awareness of how seemingly harmless interactions can lead to serious consequences, like a potentially career-damaging scandal.
In a parallel scene, Aqua’s own emotional turmoil is reflected in his reaction to a picture of his mother, with his eyes showing a troubling shift from white to black—a visual cue that suggests both he and Ruby are grappling with deep-seated guilt and trauma. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, with the play’s curtain rising, setting the stage for future developments. Overall, the episode is engaging and effectively builds anticipation for what’s to come.