The things you describe are similar to the Encyclopedia Rites rewards. Shift-E (by default) brings up the Encyclopedia. As you complete missions for various people around the world, sometimes one is important and part of a larger picture. Those missions are added to your encyclopedia and are pre-requisites for a final mission for that Rite.
Complete all of the pre-requisite missions for a Rite, then complete the Rite itself, and receive rewards. They include stat increases, new abilities, new crafting patterns, and added conveniences.
Complete all of the pre-requisite missions for a Rite, then complete the Rite itself, and receive rewards. They include stat increases, new abilities, new crafting patterns, and added conveniences.