OOC: Social link script!
Because I am tired of looking the scenes up on youtube when all I want to do is check facts :|
RANK 1
Rise: hey, sempai?
Now that I'm getting the hang of school, I want to go out more and see the sights.
But I tend to get recognized everywhere I go, so I'm a little nervous about going out on my own...
And you seem like the type of guy who knows all the cool spots in town.
[>sure, I'll show you around
If I have the time...
Yeah, I know a few places.]
Rise: Really? Woohoo!
>You sense Rise's natural, easy friendliness...
>You feel a faint bond forming between you and Rise...
Rise: If you ever have some time to kill, think of me, okay?
Now c'mon, let's go pester Teddie!
Teeeediiiiiie! Heeeeey!
RANK 2
>Souzai Daigaku...
>You came at Rise's earnest request...
Rise: I can't take another bite. My stomach's full...
But that really hit the spot! I've been wanting to come here.
But it's a little embarrassing to show up alone, you know?
[ Why?
You don't eat out?
> Just order takeout. ]
Rise: How little you know, Sempai!
It's the atmosphere that's important. The meal itself isn't everything, you know.
>Rise's voice is swelling with pride for some reason.
Rise: To tell you the truth, I've wanted to do this since I was a child.
My parents were actually really strict.
I didn't really have many friends.
Though I guess that couldn't be helped, since I hardly ever showed up for school.
......
Er, that's enough talk about that! What a depressing subject, huh?
Let's talk about something fun. After all, I don't want to waste the time we have together!
It's so great that I came to this town and met you.
Really, I'm serious!
>Rise smiles naturally...
>You feel your relationship with Rise has grown deeper...
Rise: Soooo, why don't I start by asking you what kind of girl you like?
>You dealt with Rise's barrage of questions until it became dark, then went home.
RANK 3
>Okina City, in front of Okina station...
>Rise took you here.
Rise: Whew, that was a long trip...
It'll take time to get back, so let's walk around quick!
[ You come here often?
Can't you shop in Inaba...?
>What are you looking for? ]
Rise: A one-piece, of course!
Make sure you take notice when I wear it, okay?
>Rise is smiling mischievously...
Rise: Oh, come to think of it, where does Kanji buy his clothes?
You can't find pointy stuff like those at Junes, can you?
Does he buy them online...?
......
Maybe he makes them...?
Suspicious guy: U-umm...
A-aren't you Risette?
I, I-I-I-I...
Rise: No... I'm not.
Let's go, Senpai.
>Rise dragged you away...
>Many people approached Rise over the course of the day...
Rise: They just never learn!
*sigh* But I told them!
I told them today, Senpai!
“No, I'm not.” “You're mistaken.” “I'm not Risette!”
And it's true... I'm no longer “Risette”...
I'm just an ordinary girl...
*giggle* Which is fine with me!
I never thought I'd be out in public like this.
I love Inaba, Senpai...
You see the same faces every day, rumors spread fast, and there are times when it gets on my last nerve...
And sometimes I feel I might be better off if I was in a big city full of strangers...
But even then, I love that town.
You're there, Grandma's there...
And above all, there's something I can do there.
Let's keep at it, Senpai!
>You can sense Rise's passion...
>You feel that you understand Rise even better...
Rise: I didn't see any one-pieces that clicked with me, so I guess we should go home.
Let's go, Senpai.
>You walked Rise to her house and went home.
RANK 4
>Central shopping district...
>You decided to walk Rise home after eating at Aiya...
Rise: The flavor was a little strong, but it was good.
My grandma's food is kind of bland. Though tofu is good for you, so...
>There is a suspicious man in front of Rise's house...
Rise: Is that a reporter...?
Or... a stalker?
>Rise is worried...
[ Yell
Call the police
>Grab her hand and run ]
Rise: Uh, th-that's alright. We don't know if he's really dangerous or not.
Let's just wait and see, okay?
But... thanks for that.
>Rise no longer seems worried.
Rise: Hmm, but still... that guy... Where have I...?
!!
Inoue-san, is that you?
Inoue: Rise-chan!
Rise: Wh-Why are you here...?
I already settled everything with the agency...!
Inoue: I'm here because... personally, I can't accept that.
I've watched over you this entire time as your manager...
Rise: I'm no longer a “personality”!
My private time doesn't belong to a manager any more!
Go home. If you don't, I'll call the police.
Inoue: W-wait!
Could you just think it over? I strongly believe that no other actress can play that role better than Rise Kujikawa.
Your fans were looking forward to the movie, too...
Rise: You still want me to act...!?
Inoue: Huh...?
Rise: ...Anyway, I'm through with it! I have nothing to do with showbiz and all that stuff now!
I...
I-I've decided to marry this man once we graduate high school!
I said before it was only a hiatus, but I've changed my mind! There's no way I'm coming back!
Souji sees the real me...
He's so gentle...!
>Rise is desperate...
[ >Go along with her
Deny it ]
>You went along with her story...
Rise: S-See? I told you...
>Rise looks relieved...
Inoue: ......
I understand. I'll go home... for today.
B-But I...
Rise: Go away! Now!
>He leaves
Rise: Oh... U-Ummm...
...That was Inoue-san. He was... my manager.
I'm his daughter's age, so he treated me like one of the family...
But... he's a stranger now.
......
S-Senpai, umm...
I'm sorry... Lying about marrying you and all...
[ >I don't mind.
Lying is wrong.
It... It was a lie? ]
Rise: Senpai...
You're so mature...
>Rise smiled a smile of relief.
Rise: You really are a nice guy.
Th-This isn't good... I feel like I'm going to depend on you even more...
...J-Just kidding!
>Perhaps due to her relief, Rise is smiling sheepishly...
>You feel your relationship with Rise has grown deeper...
Rise: I wish I could spend more time with you, but... I'll save it for next time.
See you later, Senpai.
>You watched Rise walk in and went home.
RANK 5
>The hill overlooking town...
>You came here at Rise's request, as she says she likes it here...
Rise: When I first got to town, I used to sit here and do nothing...
I would just listen to the sound of the river, the sound of the birds, the sound of the rain...
I felt I could forget “Risette” and find myself that way...
But...
Senpai, have you ever thought that you're pushing yourself too far, or that you were just acting...?
[ >All the time
Sometimes.
Not really ]
Rise: Really...? Then you might even be a better actor than me.
But I see... you've been through a lot too...
>It seems Rise is a bit relieved.
Rise: I feel like I've been able to relax after coming to Inaba.
Meeting all of you, laughing together... Watching the store, reading comics, playing with the cat...
...When I was at my parents' house, I was on my best behavior around them...
Oh, but Grandma doesn't ask me anything. Y'know, like why I quit or what I'm thinking of doing next...
She just talks about tofu. She says... I'm like tofu.
I had to ask her what that meant.
The way she explained it... Tofu looks weak and fragile, but it's actually pretty resilient.
Even though it stands out because it's not like any other food, it can be mixed in with any recipe or flavor...
Tofu is incredible.
I'm nothing like that...
......
I...
I was actually bullied at school before I made my debut...
I wasn't good at talking, and always looked at my feet...
I was alone the entire time...
But I didn't have a problem with that. No one expected anything of me.
And then... the application my relative sent without telling me passed the first audition.
I wasn't interested in being an idol, but... I wanted the chance to change myself.
And just by chance, I won.
Haha... When it happened, I panicked, thinking maybe I should turn their offer down.
Then I thought... if I appeared on TV, I could make friends...
That was literally the only reason I went through with it...
After a while... I realized something.
The person everyone likes, the one they say “hi” to on the street? That's not the real me.
Risette is the one everyone likes... the fictional character they sold the public.
...It's the same with you, isn't it?
You don't have to deny it... I won't be mad.
You're with me right now because I'm Risette, yeah?
[ That's right.
No.
>I don't know... ]
Rise: W-wow, I'm kinda surprised...
You project this image of strength, so I didn't expect you to say that...
But I see... you're just a year older than me, huh?
I never thought of that...
>Rise is smiling sheepishly.
Rise: When I got back to school after my debut, no one bullied me...
I was happy at first, with people I didn't even know talking to me...
But they weren't suddenly interested in Rise Kujikawa...
They wanted to hang out with Risette.
The bullying stopped, but... I felt like none of them saw the real me.
In my heart, I've always thought... “This isn't the real me...”
Funny, huh? I was the one who wanted to change, and...
But none of that matters now! I'm done being Risette!
Now I have people who know the real me.
Plus, I have power that can help everyone... I love that!
This time, I'm going to change into a Rise that everyone can like!
Keep an eye out for her, Senpai!
>Rise is smiling...
>You feel that you understand Rise even more...
>You walked Rise to her house and went home.
RANK 6
>Central shopping district...
>You walked Rise home after a trip to Okina City...
Rise: *giggle* I placed lots of special orders.
Come with me next time when I go pick 'em up, Senpai.
I had tons of fun today. Not many people tried to come up and talk...
...Maybe they already forgot who I am.
Oh, yeah. Want some tofu to take home?
I helped make them today.
Wait right here.
Inoue: Excuse me... Souji-san, is it?
Ummm... Sorry about the other day...
I'm Minoru Inoue, Rise Kujikawa's former manager.
I'm sorry to bother you, but... Could you give this to her?
>Inoue handed you a letter...
Inoue: A fan letter came, you see...
[ >Give it to her yourself.
Does she even need them?
Why so interested in her? ]
Inoue: I don't think she'd take it from me...
And Rise always did look forward to this girl's letters...
In today's cult of personality, being popular carries its own problems.
Your schedule fits together, minute by minute, like a jigsaw puzzle... Every day you're squeezed utterly dry...
But even knowing that, I still want her to come back...
She was genuinely brilliant... Not only that, but she's strong enough to use her pain as a foundation.
From what I could see... she's relying on you.
So could you...?
Rise: Sorry, Senpai, but we're all sold out...
Inoue-san!? Quit pestering me!
Wait... What did you say to Senpai!?
Inoue: I-I'm sorry. I'm leaving now... Goodbye...
Rise: Hounding me even after I quit... He's practically a stalker!
To think I trusted him... I feel betrayed!
[ That's not nice.
>He's worried about you.
You're really quitting? ]
Rise: No... He just wants Risette back.
The “me” he created...
>Rise is biting her lip...
Rise: So... what did he come for?
>You told Rise why Inoue came and handed her the fan letter.
Rise: This letter...
She wrote again...
I see... But he came all the way out here for this...?
......
This girl is a middle school student. She writes to me all the time.
I did this public service campaign once to stamp out bullying...
She said it inspired her... She wrote that she wouldn't let bullies get her down, that she'd try to make friends...
Ever since then, she wrote me letters... “This happened to me today,” “I was able to say this,” stuff like that.
“Seeing Risette work hard encourages me,” “It makes me feel like I can still hang in there...”
Haha, she doesn't really know how it works, huh?
But still, every time I read her letters, I felt like Risette actually meant something...
So whenever things got tough, I would read them over and over...
Senpai... Do you still have some free time...?
>Tatsuhime Shrine...
>Rise seems to be deep in thought after reading the fan letter...
Rise: ...She's worried about me.
Officially, I'm taking a break due to illness, so...
......
Before I quit, there was talk about a part in a movie...
She sounds like she was really looking forward to it...
“Please get well soon and come back,” she says...
......
I'm so glad you were here. I was scared to read it alone...
I gave up on being Risette. I can't meet her expectations...
[ >Having second thoughts?
This was your decision.
She'll understand. ]
Rise: I have no regrets.
...At least, I think not.
I mean, it was such a relief to quit. To go back to being the real me...
Haha...
......
>Rise has a lonely smile on her face...
Rise: Anyway, Risette doesn't exist any more.
It's not just this girl. I disappointed lots of other people...
The president of the company told me that over and over, and I knew already...
I knew this was the path I chose, but...
......
Maybe I'll just inherit the tofu shop!
I'm the shop's main attraction now. I bet I could make it thrive!
...Senpai.
Maybe we should really just do it... Y'know, what I was saying a while back.
You could marry me once we graduate high school, and the two of us could work at the tofu shop together.
Doesn't that sound fun? H-How about it? Haha... ha...
[ Sounds great.
> If you're serious...
I can't decide that now. ]
Rise: If I'm serious...? I think I'm pretty serious...
You're always so calm.
But... I like that.
>Rise is smiling sheepishly.
Rise: Thank you, Senpai. For being with me all of today...
I feel a bit better.
Yeah... I'm fine.
I can contribute something...
And it looks like there are still plenty of things only I can do...
>You can sense Rise's quiet will...
>You feel that you understand Rise even more...
Rise: Sorry for dragging you around all day.
I'll let you go now.
>You walked Rise to her house and went home.
RANK 7
>Okina City, in front of Okina Station...
>Rise invited you to go shopping with her.
Rise: Today, we're buying for you!
I'll put together the best outfit for you, so be prepared.
I've already checked out most of the stores. First is... over there...
That ad...
I see... So Kanami is the new poster girl...
......
Oh, uhh...
That store's sign has a girl who was at the agency with me.
Kanami Mashita... She was my junior...
...She was cute, so I figured she would sell.
[ >She's cute, huh?
Jealous?
That's good, isn't it? ]
Rise: Er... Senpai...?
That's not a question you should be asking when I'm standing right here.
>Rise is pouting.
>You overhear a conversation between some teenagers...
Bored teenager: Man, Kanamin is soooo cute.
It's crazy that she's still in middle schoo.
I like how she's not so fake, like Risette.
Idle teenager: Yeah, Kanamin's like... plain, and honest.
Somewhere between a little sister and the girl next door. Like, the kind of girl you want to protect.
Rise: …...
Yeah, yeah, I'm “fake”.
That's the role I played...
It was all an act... Everything...
...Hey! All that stuff about Kanami is an act, too!
…...
Let's go home, Senpai.
I don't want to be here.
>Samegawa Riverbank...
>Rise dragged you back here...
Rise: …...
Senpai, are you... happy right now? Do you like being with me... like this, the way we are now?
You like having such a cute underclassman, right? I'm an ex-idol, after all.
[ >I'm happy.
I'm miserable.
That part doesn't matter. ]
Rise: …...
Why are you being so nice...?
I-It doesn't make sense...
>Rise is biting her lip...
Rise: ...I'm sorry. I was just irritated...
I dragged you all the way to Okina, then just came back without doing anything...
I'm really sorry...
Nanako: Oh, big bro and Rise-chan!
Rise: Oh, Nanako-chan... Y-You going home?
Nanako: Yep!
Rise: Oh, I know...
H-Hey, Nanako-chan, umm...
Well...
Do you know who Kanami Mashita is...?
Nanako: Ummm... Kanami... Mashita...
…...?
Oh, you mean Kanamin?
Yeah, I know her. Some of my friends like her.
I tell them, “Rise-chan's way better!”
Rise: Y-You do, huh? Hahaha, thanks...
B-But I'm totally different from how I am on TV. You must be disappointed...
Nanako: Nope.
I like you.
Rise: Huh? Oh... thanks.
But that means... you like the “me” over here, huh...
Nanako: The... “me”...?
Aren't you just Rise-chan? I like you, that's all.
Rise: Oh, er... ummmm...
...Thanks, Nanako-chan. I like you too.
Nanako: Yay!
Oh, the show's about to start! I'm going home now! Bye!
Rise: “You're just Rise-chan,” huh?
Wh-What was I thinking, asking all that to Nanako-chan...?
*sigh* Risette...
I quit so I wouldn't have to think about stuff like this...
…...
...I have no regrets about showbiz. I wouldn't want to go back.
Why would I sacrifice my real self!?
I just want to become a Rise who's needed by the ones who see the real me. Like you, Senpai.
That's the “me” I want to be. It's the truth.
>You can sense Rise's passionate will...
>You feel that you understand Rise even more...
Rise: I... got a little upset today when I heard those kids talk about Kanami.
...I'm sure I'll forget it by tomorrow.
>Rise looks helpless...
[ Cheer her up
>Move closer to her
Laugh it off ]
Rise: S-Stop, Senpai...
...Though maybe I'm in the mood to be close to you right now.
>Rise is smiling sheepishly...
Rise: I'm sorry for being so selfish today.
…...
When I was working, I met lots of people, but at the cost of free time to meet people outside of work.
I had no free time at all...
So when I was alone, I was truly alone. Whatever I was thinking about... I had to keep that to myself.
So...
Right now... I don't want to be alone...
Stay with me... just a little longer...
>You spent time with Rise until it got dark and went home.
RANK 8
>Souzai Daigaku...
>You came with Rise, who seems enthusiastic about eating out...
Rise: What should I have...?
Heck, maybe our shop should do something like this.
How about a “ganmo kebab”? Or a “Tofu croquette”?
Middle aged man: Well, if it isn't Rise-chan.
Rise: Ummm, you're the deputy mayor... right? Good afternoon...
Deputy Mayor: I heard the news! You know, about the upcoming film!
...Hm? You haven't heard yet?
You know Kanamin, right? Kanami Mashita!
They're going to be filming nearby, right? I hope they stop by Inaba, too.
Oh, I know! Why don't you ask?
Rise: Kanamin...
...I don't have anything to do with them any more.
Deputy Mayor: But wait... How many are coming? We only have small bed-and-breakfasts around here...
Got it! They can stay at the Amagi inn!
Alright, I need to go tell that manager guy I was just talking to!
Rise: …...
Inoue: Oh, Rise-chan. Nice to see you.
Rise: Inoue-san... What do you want today?
Inoue: I'm down here scouting film locations, so I thought I'd come see you.
I wanted to hear your answer one more time, face to face.
...Are you sure you're not coming back?
Rise: …...
I...
I'm not going back...
…...
Inoue: I see...
Okay... I understand. Well, now I can focus on my new job.
I signed up as Kanami Mashita's manager.
Remember how we were talking about doing that movie? They picked Kanami as your replacement.
...We're going to sell Kanami.
I have every confidence she'll be just as popular... no, even MORE popular than Risette.
Rise: I-I see...
Inoue: Although... Kanami is an ordinary girl. We have to “polish” her so she sells...
…...
But you had that spark...
You learned fast, adapted well to new situations, had that smile that could be as strong or weak as you needed...
And those acting skills of yours! You were like an old pro.
You could have reached heights most girls could never dream of...
...That's what I think, anyway.
So... I just had to hear it from your own mouth.
Well, then... goodbye.
Stay healthy, okay?
Rise: …...
What the heck... That's not fair... After he made me answer...
He never told me any of that when we were still working together...
Acting skills...? Of course I have 'em.
What the heck...? Telling me all that stuff now... It's too late!
…...
>It seems Rise is crying...
Rise: Hey... Why... am I crying...?
There's no reason to cry... There's nothing... to be sad about...
Nothing...
Senpai, I... I don't know why I'm crying...
[ You mustn't cry!
>Cry all you want. ]
Rise: Haha... I can't... My eyes will be all swollen tomorrow...
I... I lost... everything...
I don't know how, but... I lost everything...
I'm scared... I'm sad... What's going on...?
Senpai...
Please, stay here...
Stay by... my side...
Senpai...!
>Rise is trembling...
>...You sense this is an important moment. There's no turning back.
[ >Hold her
Stand there ]
Rise: S-Senpai...
Senpai...
>Rise began pouring out tears...
Rise: Senpai...
I have you... I have the others...
I didn't lose everything...
There are people who need me, right...?
>Rise is smiling through her tears...
>You feel your relationship with Rise has grown deeper...
>......
>You can feel Rise's warmth as she trembles...
>There's no turning back...
>Your relationship with Rise has become intimate.
Rise: I'm going home now.
My head's all messed up...
I need time to think it all over. About how I feel now...
I don't want to lose anything more...
Goodbye, Senpai...
>You watched Rise walk off and went home.
RANK 1
Rise: hey, sempai?
Now that I'm getting the hang of school, I want to go out more and see the sights.
But I tend to get recognized everywhere I go, so I'm a little nervous about going out on my own...
And you seem like the type of guy who knows all the cool spots in town.
[>sure, I'll show you around
If I have the time...
Yeah, I know a few places.]
Rise: Really? Woohoo!
>You sense Rise's natural, easy friendliness...
>You feel a faint bond forming between you and Rise...
Rise: If you ever have some time to kill, think of me, okay?
Now c'mon, let's go pester Teddie!
Teeeediiiiiie! Heeeeey!
RANK 2
>Souzai Daigaku...
>You came at Rise's earnest request...
Rise: I can't take another bite. My stomach's full...
But that really hit the spot! I've been wanting to come here.
But it's a little embarrassing to show up alone, you know?
[ Why?
You don't eat out?
> Just order takeout. ]
Rise: How little you know, Sempai!
It's the atmosphere that's important. The meal itself isn't everything, you know.
>Rise's voice is swelling with pride for some reason.
Rise: To tell you the truth, I've wanted to do this since I was a child.
My parents were actually really strict.
I didn't really have many friends.
Though I guess that couldn't be helped, since I hardly ever showed up for school.
......
Er, that's enough talk about that! What a depressing subject, huh?
Let's talk about something fun. After all, I don't want to waste the time we have together!
It's so great that I came to this town and met you.
Really, I'm serious!
>Rise smiles naturally...
>You feel your relationship with Rise has grown deeper...
Rise: Soooo, why don't I start by asking you what kind of girl you like?
>You dealt with Rise's barrage of questions until it became dark, then went home.
RANK 3
>Okina City, in front of Okina station...
>Rise took you here.
Rise: Whew, that was a long trip...
It'll take time to get back, so let's walk around quick!
[ You come here often?
Can't you shop in Inaba...?
>What are you looking for? ]
Rise: A one-piece, of course!
Make sure you take notice when I wear it, okay?
>Rise is smiling mischievously...
Rise: Oh, come to think of it, where does Kanji buy his clothes?
You can't find pointy stuff like those at Junes, can you?
Does he buy them online...?
......
Maybe he makes them...?
Suspicious guy: U-umm...
A-aren't you Risette?
I, I-I-I-I...
Rise: No... I'm not.
Let's go, Senpai.
>Rise dragged you away...
>Many people approached Rise over the course of the day...
Rise: They just never learn!
*sigh* But I told them!
I told them today, Senpai!
“No, I'm not.” “You're mistaken.” “I'm not Risette!”
And it's true... I'm no longer “Risette”...
I'm just an ordinary girl...
*giggle* Which is fine with me!
I never thought I'd be out in public like this.
I love Inaba, Senpai...
You see the same faces every day, rumors spread fast, and there are times when it gets on my last nerve...
And sometimes I feel I might be better off if I was in a big city full of strangers...
But even then, I love that town.
You're there, Grandma's there...
And above all, there's something I can do there.
Let's keep at it, Senpai!
>You can sense Rise's passion...
>You feel that you understand Rise even better...
Rise: I didn't see any one-pieces that clicked with me, so I guess we should go home.
Let's go, Senpai.
>You walked Rise to her house and went home.
RANK 4
>Central shopping district...
>You decided to walk Rise home after eating at Aiya...
Rise: The flavor was a little strong, but it was good.
My grandma's food is kind of bland. Though tofu is good for you, so...
>There is a suspicious man in front of Rise's house...
Rise: Is that a reporter...?
Or... a stalker?
>Rise is worried...
[ Yell
Call the police
>Grab her hand and run ]
Rise: Uh, th-that's alright. We don't know if he's really dangerous or not.
Let's just wait and see, okay?
But... thanks for that.
>Rise no longer seems worried.
Rise: Hmm, but still... that guy... Where have I...?
!!
Inoue-san, is that you?
Inoue: Rise-chan!
Rise: Wh-Why are you here...?
I already settled everything with the agency...!
Inoue: I'm here because... personally, I can't accept that.
I've watched over you this entire time as your manager...
Rise: I'm no longer a “personality”!
My private time doesn't belong to a manager any more!
Go home. If you don't, I'll call the police.
Inoue: W-wait!
Could you just think it over? I strongly believe that no other actress can play that role better than Rise Kujikawa.
Your fans were looking forward to the movie, too...
Rise: You still want me to act...!?
Inoue: Huh...?
Rise: ...Anyway, I'm through with it! I have nothing to do with showbiz and all that stuff now!
I...
I-I've decided to marry this man once we graduate high school!
I said before it was only a hiatus, but I've changed my mind! There's no way I'm coming back!
Souji sees the real me...
He's so gentle...!
>Rise is desperate...
[ >Go along with her
Deny it ]
>You went along with her story...
Rise: S-See? I told you...
>Rise looks relieved...
Inoue: ......
I understand. I'll go home... for today.
B-But I...
Rise: Go away! Now!
>He leaves
Rise: Oh... U-Ummm...
...That was Inoue-san. He was... my manager.
I'm his daughter's age, so he treated me like one of the family...
But... he's a stranger now.
......
S-Senpai, umm...
I'm sorry... Lying about marrying you and all...
[ >I don't mind.
Lying is wrong.
It... It was a lie? ]
Rise: Senpai...
You're so mature...
>Rise smiled a smile of relief.
Rise: You really are a nice guy.
Th-This isn't good... I feel like I'm going to depend on you even more...
...J-Just kidding!
>Perhaps due to her relief, Rise is smiling sheepishly...
>You feel your relationship with Rise has grown deeper...
Rise: I wish I could spend more time with you, but... I'll save it for next time.
See you later, Senpai.
>You watched Rise walk in and went home.
RANK 5
>The hill overlooking town...
>You came here at Rise's request, as she says she likes it here...
Rise: When I first got to town, I used to sit here and do nothing...
I would just listen to the sound of the river, the sound of the birds, the sound of the rain...
I felt I could forget “Risette” and find myself that way...
But...
Senpai, have you ever thought that you're pushing yourself too far, or that you were just acting...?
[ >All the time
Sometimes.
Not really ]
Rise: Really...? Then you might even be a better actor than me.
But I see... you've been through a lot too...
>It seems Rise is a bit relieved.
Rise: I feel like I've been able to relax after coming to Inaba.
Meeting all of you, laughing together... Watching the store, reading comics, playing with the cat...
...When I was at my parents' house, I was on my best behavior around them...
Oh, but Grandma doesn't ask me anything. Y'know, like why I quit or what I'm thinking of doing next...
She just talks about tofu. She says... I'm like tofu.
I had to ask her what that meant.
The way she explained it... Tofu looks weak and fragile, but it's actually pretty resilient.
Even though it stands out because it's not like any other food, it can be mixed in with any recipe or flavor...
Tofu is incredible.
I'm nothing like that...
......
I...
I was actually bullied at school before I made my debut...
I wasn't good at talking, and always looked at my feet...
I was alone the entire time...
But I didn't have a problem with that. No one expected anything of me.
And then... the application my relative sent without telling me passed the first audition.
I wasn't interested in being an idol, but... I wanted the chance to change myself.
And just by chance, I won.
Haha... When it happened, I panicked, thinking maybe I should turn their offer down.
Then I thought... if I appeared on TV, I could make friends...
That was literally the only reason I went through with it...
After a while... I realized something.
The person everyone likes, the one they say “hi” to on the street? That's not the real me.
Risette is the one everyone likes... the fictional character they sold the public.
...It's the same with you, isn't it?
You don't have to deny it... I won't be mad.
You're with me right now because I'm Risette, yeah?
[ That's right.
No.
>I don't know... ]
Rise: W-wow, I'm kinda surprised...
You project this image of strength, so I didn't expect you to say that...
But I see... you're just a year older than me, huh?
I never thought of that...
>Rise is smiling sheepishly.
Rise: When I got back to school after my debut, no one bullied me...
I was happy at first, with people I didn't even know talking to me...
But they weren't suddenly interested in Rise Kujikawa...
They wanted to hang out with Risette.
The bullying stopped, but... I felt like none of them saw the real me.
In my heart, I've always thought... “This isn't the real me...”
Funny, huh? I was the one who wanted to change, and...
But none of that matters now! I'm done being Risette!
Now I have people who know the real me.
Plus, I have power that can help everyone... I love that!
This time, I'm going to change into a Rise that everyone can like!
Keep an eye out for her, Senpai!
>Rise is smiling...
>You feel that you understand Rise even more...
>You walked Rise to her house and went home.
RANK 6
>Central shopping district...
>You walked Rise home after a trip to Okina City...
Rise: *giggle* I placed lots of special orders.
Come with me next time when I go pick 'em up, Senpai.
I had tons of fun today. Not many people tried to come up and talk...
...Maybe they already forgot who I am.
Oh, yeah. Want some tofu to take home?
I helped make them today.
Wait right here.
Inoue: Excuse me... Souji-san, is it?
Ummm... Sorry about the other day...
I'm Minoru Inoue, Rise Kujikawa's former manager.
I'm sorry to bother you, but... Could you give this to her?
>Inoue handed you a letter...
Inoue: A fan letter came, you see...
[ >Give it to her yourself.
Does she even need them?
Why so interested in her? ]
Inoue: I don't think she'd take it from me...
And Rise always did look forward to this girl's letters...
In today's cult of personality, being popular carries its own problems.
Your schedule fits together, minute by minute, like a jigsaw puzzle... Every day you're squeezed utterly dry...
But even knowing that, I still want her to come back...
She was genuinely brilliant... Not only that, but she's strong enough to use her pain as a foundation.
From what I could see... she's relying on you.
So could you...?
Rise: Sorry, Senpai, but we're all sold out...
Inoue-san!? Quit pestering me!
Wait... What did you say to Senpai!?
Inoue: I-I'm sorry. I'm leaving now... Goodbye...
Rise: Hounding me even after I quit... He's practically a stalker!
To think I trusted him... I feel betrayed!
[ That's not nice.
>He's worried about you.
You're really quitting? ]
Rise: No... He just wants Risette back.
The “me” he created...
>Rise is biting her lip...
Rise: So... what did he come for?
>You told Rise why Inoue came and handed her the fan letter.
Rise: This letter...
She wrote again...
I see... But he came all the way out here for this...?
......
This girl is a middle school student. She writes to me all the time.
I did this public service campaign once to stamp out bullying...
She said it inspired her... She wrote that she wouldn't let bullies get her down, that she'd try to make friends...
Ever since then, she wrote me letters... “This happened to me today,” “I was able to say this,” stuff like that.
“Seeing Risette work hard encourages me,” “It makes me feel like I can still hang in there...”
Haha, she doesn't really know how it works, huh?
But still, every time I read her letters, I felt like Risette actually meant something...
So whenever things got tough, I would read them over and over...
Senpai... Do you still have some free time...?
>Tatsuhime Shrine...
>Rise seems to be deep in thought after reading the fan letter...
Rise: ...She's worried about me.
Officially, I'm taking a break due to illness, so...
......
Before I quit, there was talk about a part in a movie...
She sounds like she was really looking forward to it...
“Please get well soon and come back,” she says...
......
I'm so glad you were here. I was scared to read it alone...
I gave up on being Risette. I can't meet her expectations...
[ >Having second thoughts?
This was your decision.
She'll understand. ]
Rise: I have no regrets.
...At least, I think not.
I mean, it was such a relief to quit. To go back to being the real me...
Haha...
......
>Rise has a lonely smile on her face...
Rise: Anyway, Risette doesn't exist any more.
It's not just this girl. I disappointed lots of other people...
The president of the company told me that over and over, and I knew already...
I knew this was the path I chose, but...
......
Maybe I'll just inherit the tofu shop!
I'm the shop's main attraction now. I bet I could make it thrive!
...Senpai.
Maybe we should really just do it... Y'know, what I was saying a while back.
You could marry me once we graduate high school, and the two of us could work at the tofu shop together.
Doesn't that sound fun? H-How about it? Haha... ha...
[ Sounds great.
> If you're serious...
I can't decide that now. ]
Rise: If I'm serious...? I think I'm pretty serious...
You're always so calm.
But... I like that.
>Rise is smiling sheepishly.
Rise: Thank you, Senpai. For being with me all of today...
I feel a bit better.
Yeah... I'm fine.
I can contribute something...
And it looks like there are still plenty of things only I can do...
>You can sense Rise's quiet will...
>You feel that you understand Rise even more...
Rise: Sorry for dragging you around all day.
I'll let you go now.
>You walked Rise to her house and went home.
RANK 7
>Okina City, in front of Okina Station...
>Rise invited you to go shopping with her.
Rise: Today, we're buying for you!
I'll put together the best outfit for you, so be prepared.
I've already checked out most of the stores. First is... over there...
That ad...
I see... So Kanami is the new poster girl...
......
Oh, uhh...
That store's sign has a girl who was at the agency with me.
Kanami Mashita... She was my junior...
...She was cute, so I figured she would sell.
[ >She's cute, huh?
Jealous?
That's good, isn't it? ]
Rise: Er... Senpai...?
That's not a question you should be asking when I'm standing right here.
>Rise is pouting.
>You overhear a conversation between some teenagers...
Bored teenager: Man, Kanamin is soooo cute.
It's crazy that she's still in middle schoo.
I like how she's not so fake, like Risette.
Idle teenager: Yeah, Kanamin's like... plain, and honest.
Somewhere between a little sister and the girl next door. Like, the kind of girl you want to protect.
Rise: …...
Yeah, yeah, I'm “fake”.
That's the role I played...
It was all an act... Everything...
...Hey! All that stuff about Kanami is an act, too!
…...
Let's go home, Senpai.
I don't want to be here.
>Samegawa Riverbank...
>Rise dragged you back here...
Rise: …...
Senpai, are you... happy right now? Do you like being with me... like this, the way we are now?
You like having such a cute underclassman, right? I'm an ex-idol, after all.
[ >I'm happy.
I'm miserable.
That part doesn't matter. ]
Rise: …...
Why are you being so nice...?
I-It doesn't make sense...
>Rise is biting her lip...
Rise: ...I'm sorry. I was just irritated...
I dragged you all the way to Okina, then just came back without doing anything...
I'm really sorry...
Nanako: Oh, big bro and Rise-chan!
Rise: Oh, Nanako-chan... Y-You going home?
Nanako: Yep!
Rise: Oh, I know...
H-Hey, Nanako-chan, umm...
Well...
Do you know who Kanami Mashita is...?
Nanako: Ummm... Kanami... Mashita...
…...?
Oh, you mean Kanamin?
Yeah, I know her. Some of my friends like her.
I tell them, “Rise-chan's way better!”
Rise: Y-You do, huh? Hahaha, thanks...
B-But I'm totally different from how I am on TV. You must be disappointed...
Nanako: Nope.
I like you.
Rise: Huh? Oh... thanks.
But that means... you like the “me” over here, huh...
Nanako: The... “me”...?
Aren't you just Rise-chan? I like you, that's all.
Rise: Oh, er... ummmm...
...Thanks, Nanako-chan. I like you too.
Nanako: Yay!
Oh, the show's about to start! I'm going home now! Bye!
Rise: “You're just Rise-chan,” huh?
Wh-What was I thinking, asking all that to Nanako-chan...?
*sigh* Risette...
I quit so I wouldn't have to think about stuff like this...
…...
...I have no regrets about showbiz. I wouldn't want to go back.
Why would I sacrifice my real self!?
I just want to become a Rise who's needed by the ones who see the real me. Like you, Senpai.
That's the “me” I want to be. It's the truth.
>You can sense Rise's passionate will...
>You feel that you understand Rise even more...
Rise: I... got a little upset today when I heard those kids talk about Kanami.
...I'm sure I'll forget it by tomorrow.
>Rise looks helpless...
[ Cheer her up
>Move closer to her
Laugh it off ]
Rise: S-Stop, Senpai...
...Though maybe I'm in the mood to be close to you right now.
>Rise is smiling sheepishly...
Rise: I'm sorry for being so selfish today.
…...
When I was working, I met lots of people, but at the cost of free time to meet people outside of work.
I had no free time at all...
So when I was alone, I was truly alone. Whatever I was thinking about... I had to keep that to myself.
So...
Right now... I don't want to be alone...
Stay with me... just a little longer...
>You spent time with Rise until it got dark and went home.
RANK 8
>Souzai Daigaku...
>You came with Rise, who seems enthusiastic about eating out...
Rise: What should I have...?
Heck, maybe our shop should do something like this.
How about a “ganmo kebab”? Or a “Tofu croquette”?
Middle aged man: Well, if it isn't Rise-chan.
Rise: Ummm, you're the deputy mayor... right? Good afternoon...
Deputy Mayor: I heard the news! You know, about the upcoming film!
...Hm? You haven't heard yet?
You know Kanamin, right? Kanami Mashita!
They're going to be filming nearby, right? I hope they stop by Inaba, too.
Oh, I know! Why don't you ask?
Rise: Kanamin...
...I don't have anything to do with them any more.
Deputy Mayor: But wait... How many are coming? We only have small bed-and-breakfasts around here...
Got it! They can stay at the Amagi inn!
Alright, I need to go tell that manager guy I was just talking to!
Rise: …...
Inoue: Oh, Rise-chan. Nice to see you.
Rise: Inoue-san... What do you want today?
Inoue: I'm down here scouting film locations, so I thought I'd come see you.
I wanted to hear your answer one more time, face to face.
...Are you sure you're not coming back?
Rise: …...
I...
I'm not going back...
…...
Inoue: I see...
Okay... I understand. Well, now I can focus on my new job.
I signed up as Kanami Mashita's manager.
Remember how we were talking about doing that movie? They picked Kanami as your replacement.
...We're going to sell Kanami.
I have every confidence she'll be just as popular... no, even MORE popular than Risette.
Rise: I-I see...
Inoue: Although... Kanami is an ordinary girl. We have to “polish” her so she sells...
…...
But you had that spark...
You learned fast, adapted well to new situations, had that smile that could be as strong or weak as you needed...
And those acting skills of yours! You were like an old pro.
You could have reached heights most girls could never dream of...
...That's what I think, anyway.
So... I just had to hear it from your own mouth.
Well, then... goodbye.
Stay healthy, okay?
Rise: …...
What the heck... That's not fair... After he made me answer...
He never told me any of that when we were still working together...
Acting skills...? Of course I have 'em.
What the heck...? Telling me all that stuff now... It's too late!
…...
>It seems Rise is crying...
Rise: Hey... Why... am I crying...?
There's no reason to cry... There's nothing... to be sad about...
Nothing...
Senpai, I... I don't know why I'm crying...
[ You mustn't cry!
>Cry all you want. ]
Rise: Haha... I can't... My eyes will be all swollen tomorrow...
I... I lost... everything...
I don't know how, but... I lost everything...
I'm scared... I'm sad... What's going on...?
Senpai...
Please, stay here...
Stay by... my side...
Senpai...!
>Rise is trembling...
>...You sense this is an important moment. There's no turning back.
[ >Hold her
Stand there ]
Rise: S-Senpai...
Senpai...
>Rise began pouring out tears...
Rise: Senpai...
I have you... I have the others...
I didn't lose everything...
There are people who need me, right...?
>Rise is smiling through her tears...
>You feel your relationship with Rise has grown deeper...
>......
>You can feel Rise's warmth as she trembles...
>There's no turning back...
>Your relationship with Rise has become intimate.
Rise: I'm going home now.
My head's all messed up...
I need time to think it all over. About how I feel now...
I don't want to lose anything more...
Goodbye, Senpai...
>You watched Rise walk off and went home.