What role do firearms play in fantasy novels?

They play a crucial role. They can be the heroes, using their magic to save the day. For instance, they might rescue a princess or stop a war.

Sometimes they are just observers. They find themselves in a fantasy world by accident, perhaps through some magical experiment gone wrong. They observe the different cultures, magic systems, and military forces in the world without really interfering much, at least at first. But as they get more involved, their modern military perspective can start to influence the events in the fantasy world.

In many fantasy novels, constellations can give characters a sense of identity. If a character discovers that they are linked to a particular constellation, it can shape their self - perception. They may strive to live up to the qualities associated with that constellation, like wisdom if it's a constellation related to an old sage. It also adds depth to the character as it gives them a connection to something greater in the fictional cosmos.

Characters often play a crucial role. For example, a young protagonist might be on a quest to save a loved one who has recently passed away. On the Day of the Dead, they might have a chance to communicate with the spirit. Or perhaps a group of thieves may try to steal from the altars set up for the dead, which would be seen as a great taboo. And then there are the characters who are mediators between the living and the dead, using their powers to keep the peace during this chaotic time.

They can be disruptors. They might disrupt the existing power balance in the fantasy world. For instance, if a small group of modern troops with advanced technology arrives in a world where battles are fought with swords and magic, they could easily tip the scales in a conflict.

They play a healing role, using both traditional and magical means to treat the sick and injured in the fantasy world.

Subplots are important in novels as they can flesh out the world-building, introduce new conflicts, and offer different points of view. They make the overall story more rich and multi-faceted.

In many cases, they do. They can enhance the world-building, give a sense of authenticity, and distinguish one fantasy realm from others. However, not all fantasy novels rely on them heavily.

Time can be a source of power. In some fantasy novels, those who can control time are among the most powerful beings. They can use it to their advantage in battles, freezing their enemies in time or speeding up their own actions. Moreover, time is often linked to the cycle of life and death in fantasy worlds. It can determine when certain magical events occur, like the blooming of a magical flower once every hundred years.

Electricity can play the role of a power source for advanced technology in a fantasy world that has a blend of magic and machinery. For instance, a flying ship might be powered by an electrical crystal.