(Info)What is this branch, and why does it exist?

Hello, readers new and old.

I’m not too sure how the idea of a new branch will be received by current readers of the Main branch, so I’d like to explain why it’s here. For them, and for new, curious readers as well.

I opened this branch to explore some old ideas I had, and ultimately discarded, from the Main branch. Things like shorter Links, an alternate version of the System with new rules, spending more time with existing characters before introducing new ones, etc. There will be a lot of differences in this branch, including mostly new characters and a new locale.

As for what to expect:

Romance and drama, of course. Those two aspects remain my most praised elements in the Main branch, and I don’t see a reason to change them here. The drama may be toned down from the Main branch, but I can’t promise I won’t get carried away!

The Link system will work very differently here, with set missions that must be completed with each Link before they can Rank up. This will give the branch a more “Gamey” feel.

At least one male Link. This won’t be a gay romance option, but rather, an experimental ‘bro’ friendship story.

Photography will play a much smaller part in the story. I considered scrapping the element altogether, but I decided to try using it one more time.

Protagonist development. I’ve been trying to do this with Leon in the Main branch, but I shot myself in the foot by designing him as an ‘average Joe’ reader fill in character. The Leon in this branch has a solidified personality with flaws and goals. This may sacrifice some reader relatability, but I wanted to give it a shot all the same. If you find Leon to be irritating at the start of this branch, give him some time to grow.

One major difference from the Main branch is that this story will not have a behind the scenes overarching story. Some readers will have noticed this slowly building in the Main branch, but don’t expect it here. All the conflict comes from the relationships in this branch.

I have three other branch ideas for the Link systems as well. A fantasy world “Quest Links” system, a smutty “Kink Links” system, and potentially a mystery themed time loop story, “Chrono Links.” I’m also heavily considering revamping “Other Links.” I won’t be rolling these all out at once, or I’ll end up spread too thin, but there’s a sneak peak for people wondering if any other branches are on the horizon.

I’d like to close this out by saying that this branch in no way will replace the Main branch. The Main branch will still be worked on, so don’t worry!