Chapter 29
A side story in the game that can be accessed when certain conditions are met. By definition, it was a narrative structure consisting of stories distinct from the main story, neither directly related nor influencing it. If the main quest revolves around the protagonist's journey to achieve their dreams, side quests were a type of content that provided users with a deeper understanding of the personalities and minor stories of surrounding characters, as well as a clearer view of the world's settings. While side stories might not be as practical as the main story, many players still engaged with them for the sheer enjoyment and generous rewards they offered.
However, meeting certain conditions and delving into the side story about the protagonist offered a dramatic twist.
**Robias Family**
Returning to the main point: upon meeting the conditions and agreeing to the side story, the protagonist receives a letter. To unlock this side story, the protagonist must achieve a certain level of capability. However, this capability was rather ambiguous and wasn't explicitly defined by the game developers. Still, once the protagonist's development reached about halfway through the main story, this side story became available. There are two main issues I want to address here:
Firstly, even though I never opted for the side quest, it was forcibly initiated. This story is, after all, optional – not an essential part of the main narrative. Thus, players could choose to skip it if they wished. But now, I find myself thrust into it. Having progressed smoothly through the main story so far, the sudden onset of this side quest left me feeling uneasy. However, as I say this, such words wouldn't have been strange even if they were negated. The progress of the side story was viewed merely as an in-game allowance. But what I clearly see now isn't a game but a tangible reality. I've realized a while ago that while the standards of the game might be helpful, they aren't an absolute definition. From the start, whether it's the main story or side story, it was all just based on my assumptions using in-game knowledge. Reality was never bound to align with such expectations.
"Can I read it once?"
I cautiously ask Erina, who weakly nods, permitting me to read the letter.
"Yes... I've read it several times already... And Harold... even after you read it, your attitude towards me shouldn't change... okay?"
I don't exactly remember the side story, but I do have a general idea about the letter and the associated quest.