Rascal Does Not Dream of a Sister Venturing Out

Sakuta is celebrating Mai's graduation while also supporting Kaede as she returns to school. He balances his own university exam prep with watching over his sister's transition. The family dynamics emphasize Kaede's ongoing struggle and resolve to move forward.

The school counselor questions Kaede’s absences and suggests that an online-based high school might be a better fit. Kaede leaves the meeting uncertain and overwhelmed by the options. Sakuta and their father discuss the implications for her future.

Kaede retreats to her room after hearing the counselor's suggestion about online school. The possibility of online studies is presented as an alternative, but it brings fresh doubts. The moment sets the stage for Kaede's internal debate about traditional versus online education.

Sakuta attends an orientation class for the online program and sees testimonials from other students, including Uzuki Hirokawa. The stories illustrate online schooling as a viable path with its own challenges and benefits. He begins to recognize a viable option for Kaede.

Back at home, Sakuta asks Kaede again where she would like to go to school. She reaffirms Minegahara as the place she wants to attend, while still considering the online path. The conversation clarifies her intent to stay connected to a traditional school community.

With tutoring from Mai, Nodoka, and Sakuta, Kaede builds confidence and prepares for her exams. They work through practice questions, discuss memories, and address her fears. The support network strengthens her resolve to pursue education.

Kaede turns in the Minegahara application form after the tutoring sessions. She still carries the bruises from puberty syndrome, and the memories threaten her confidence. The act of submitting the application marks a pivotal step toward choosing her path.

On the day of the exams, Kaede falls ill during lunch and is taken to the nurse. She tells Sakuta she did well on the tests thanks to tutoring, but a former classmate triggers painful memories and her bruises return. She confronts Sakuta, questioning whether he supported the 'other Kaede' and didn't do what was best for her.

Sakuta gathers Kaede’s belongings from the exam room and reads her journal. He reflects on her inner world and the reasons behind her retreat from the real world. The moment underscores the depth of their family bond and his commitment to helping her.

Back home, Sakuta shows the brochure from the online school to Kaede and calls Nodoka for a favor. The brochure provides practical details that make online study feel more attainable. Nodoka's involvement signals a broader support network.

During a walk, they encounter a live event by the idol group Sweet Bullet. Uzuki Hirokawa reveals that she attends the online school as well. The meeting demonstrates how online schooling can coexist with a vibrant public life.

Kaede decides to enroll in the online school and shares her choice with her friends. Soon after, she receives a call saying she was accepted to Minegahara due to class quotas, but she reaffirms her plan to stay with online schooling. Sakuta smiles as he heads out to work, relieved by Kaede's resolve.