Final answer:
Tension is an important element of a story's rising action, leading up to the climax. Exposition and rhetoric are not part of the rising action.
Step-by-step explanation:
Tension is an important element of a story's rising action. It refers to the build-up of suspense and conflict that keeps the reader engaged and eager to know what happens next. As the story progresses, the tension increases, leading to the climax which is the highest point of tension and excitement in the narrative.
The exposition on the other hand, is the part of the story that introduces the characters, setting, and initial conflict, setting the stage for the rising action. However, it is not part of the rising action itself. Rhetoric is the art of persuasion through effective communication and is not directly related to the rising action of a story.
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