%e6%8e%a8%e3%81%97%e3%81%ae%e5%ad%90%2c%e2%80%93%2craw%2c%e3%80%90%e7%ac%ac72%e8%a9%b1%e3%80%91%2c%e6%8e%a8%e3%81%97%e3%81%ae%e5%ad%90%2c%e2%80%93%2craw%2c%e3%80%90%e7%ac%ac72%e8%a9%b1%e3%80%91%2craw%2cfree%2conline%20 -

Chapter 72 of the manga , titled "Freedom" (自由, Jiyū), is a pivotal chapter that serves as the emotional climax of the "Private" arc. It explores the complex relationship between Aqua Hoshino and Akane Kurokawa while seemingly concluding Aqua's years-long quest for revenge. Plot Summary

: Aqua reveals to Akane that he believes his search for his father—the man responsible for Ai’s death—is over. Having discovered a half-brother (Taiki Himekawai) through DNA testing, he deduced that their shared biological father was a man who died years ago in a murder-suicide. Chapter 72 of the manga , titled "Freedom"

: While Aqua feels a sense of relief, the chapter ends with Akane realizing a massive logical flaw—or "loophole"—in Aqua's deduction. She suspects that the man Aqua identified might not actually be his biological father, but she chooses not to tell him to protect his newfound happiness. Key Details Key Details : Believing his father is dead,

: Believing his father is dead, Aqua tells Akane he is finally "free" to live his own life and do whatever he wants, as the burden of revenge has been lifted. Chapter 72 of the manga

: Ruby Hoshino unknowingly walks past a mysterious man—implied to be her and Aqua's true biological father—at a park, which heavily foreshadows that Aqua's "freedom" is temporary. Reader Reception & Theories

According to discussions on Reddit and manga wikis , fans often point to this chapter as a turning point for Akane's character, as she transitions from a supportive partner to a "co-conspirator" who actively hides the truth to safeguard Aqua's mental state.