The recent arcs have moved away from the high school setting and into a much darker, psychologically complex world. Asakura-sensei has never shied away from exploring injury, imposter syndrome, and the physical toll of dance. Chapter 172 ended on a brutal cliffhanger. Without spoiling too much for new readers, the narrative focused on a grueling rehearsal session where Junpei’s unique, aggressive style (a remnant of his Jeet Kune Do training) clashes with the classical purity required for a lead role.