No matter how many antagonists the dev introduces, no matter how awful or how much the stakes are raised, they will always pale in comparison to the true evil in this game: Kaija and the parents.
For me there isn’t any possible redemption path for Kajia ( wasn’t one for Steph either). At this point she could throw herself on a grenade to save MC and I still wouldn’t care about her. She has basically been deceiving MC for their entire relationship- since they were kids and then decided to ramp it up when they were adults- I don’t even believe that she was there as a bodyguard- more like a spy
I don't know if it's cause im super forgiving , just don't think about things until after I play something. As usually when I play a AVN I really don't think critically about how fucked up what person X did , I just accept it go through the motions and move on with the story. However that is also part of the reason why I find it so damn easy to not be angry or dislike certain characters at times. ( Tho there are some cases for sure that isn't the case for me , just depends on the character and game)
My first playthrough I didn't even think Kaija or the parents even really did anything that bad at first. Because to me Kaija trying to save us in my mind made up for any wrong then also I totally understood why she never told us about the Templars.
With the Parents I didn't even see that either , I saw them as loving parents that tried to not have the MC apart of their world. I Blame TV for this one as I see this trope all the time but usually the parents on TV are portrayed better to show they are more caring and loving.
It wasn't until I read post on this thread after my first playthrough I started to think about it and I understand why they are disliked so much why others see what they did as something unforgiveable.
However I will say I still don't dislike them or the templars , I just don't agree with what they did but hard for me to be mad at them either just not in my nature. However that is for several reason. I find it easier to be more understanding and forgiving with a parent or lover if they had good intentions or reasons for what they did but they just went about it all wrong. Or I just don't agree with what they did but can see the why without any ill will behind it. Which is where I put Kaija and the parents and why I never thought once about the option to burn bridges with them in the last update.
Me not disliking the Templars is simply because I don't believe they are evil nor do I think they are good. I have the same thoughts about the Elfs I just like the Elfs slightly more cause they seem more friendly and peaceful to live with once you get to know them and they accept you.