How do handicaps in fantasy stories affect the plot?

In fantasy stories, handicaps can be physical disabilities like a character being blind or lame. It adds depth to their journey as they overcome these challenges. For example, in 'The Blind Assassin' in a fantasy world, the blind character uses other heightened senses to fight enemies.

Choices in fantasy stories can significantly affect the plot. If a hero chooses to accept a dangerous quest, it sets the story in motion, leading to various challenges and encounters. For example, if Frodo in 'The Lord of the Rings' had chosen not to take the One Ring to Mordor, the entire plot would have been different. His choice led to a long and arduous journey filled with battles and tests.

The rules of fantasy fiction can greatly affect the plot. For instance, if the rule is that magic has limitations, the plot will revolve around characters finding ways to work within those limitations. If there's a rule about a certain race being more powerful in certain situations, it will influence the strategies in battles or quests in the plot.

Drugs in fantasy novels can be a major plot device. For example, if a character is poisoned (a form of 'drug' in a sense), it can set off a search for an antidote, driving the plot forward. If a hero drinks a magic potion that gives him superhuman strength, it can change the course of a battle and thus the overall plot.

Titles of nobility can create power struggles. For instance, if a young prince wants to claim the throne but an older duke with more influence opposes him, it can lead to a major plot point.

Weapon grades can greatly impact the plot. If a hero has a high - grade weapon, it gives them an edge in battles, which can change the outcome of important fights. For example, if a protagonist gets a legendary sword, they can defeat stronger enemies more easily, advancing the story.

The laws of magic can drive the plot by creating challenges. If magic has a cost, characters may struggle to find ways to use it without sacrificing too much. For example, a hero might need to decide whether to use a powerful spell that could save the day but also kill him. This creates a moral and practical dilemma that moves the story forward. Also, if magic is restricted in certain areas, characters may have to find ways to work around those restrictions, which can lead to interesting plot twists.

Themes directly influence the plot. For example, if the theme is revenge, the plot will likely be centered around a character seeking vengeance. This could lead to a series of events where the character hunts down the wrongdoer.

They can introduce new conflicts. For example, if two groups with different values form an alliance, they may clash over how to deal with the enemy. This internal strife adds complexity to the plot.

In 'Eragon', the magic system, which involves using the ancient language, has a direct impact on the plot. If Eragon mispronounces a word in the ancient language while casting a spell, it can have disastrous consequences. This adds a layer of danger and unpredictability. Also, the fact that magic users are rare and often persecuted in the world of 'Eragon' creates a lot of the story's conflict and drives the plot forward as Eragon tries to change that situation.