First, think about the main character's goal. For example, if the opening paragraph mentions a young wizard in a strange land, the goal could be to find a powerful magic spell. Then, introduce some challenges like evil creatures or difficult terrains. Next, develop other characters who can help or hinder the main character. Also, consider the world - its rules, cultures, and histories. This all helps to build a full fantasy story from that opening.
To write a complete fantasy story from the opening paragraph, focus on the key elements already present. If there's a magical object described in the opening, make it central to the story. The character might be on a quest to protect or destroy it. Expand on the character's backstory - where they come from, what led them to this point. And don't forget to add some twists and turns in the plot to keep the reader engaged.
Sure. Let's assume the opening paragraph is 'The old house on the hill had always been a source of mystery. It stood alone, its broken windows like empty eyes staring out into the night.' Then the story could continue: One night, a young adventurer named Tom decided to explore the house. As he pushed open the creaking front door, a cold draft swept past him. He could hear strange noises, like whispers in the wind. He walked further in, his flashlight flickering. In the corner of a room, he saw a shadowy figure. His heart raced as the figure seemed to move closer. Tom tried to run, but his feet felt heavy. Just as the figure was about to reach him, he closed his eyes and screamed. When he opened his eyes again, he was outside the house, not sure if it was all a nightmare or a real encounter with the unknown.
Use vivid descriptions. Describe the fantastical elements in detail. If your story has a dragon, don't just say 'There was a dragon.' Say something like 'A dragon, its scales glistening like emeralds in the sun, soared through the sky, its wings creating a thunderous roar as they flapped.' This will capture the reader's attention.
Start with an attention-grabbing hook. It could be a mystery, a surprising fact, or an intense action. Make the reader want to know more right away.
The key is to create a hook. It could be a question that makes the reader think or a cliffhanger that leaves them eager to find out what happens next. And don't forget to make it engaging and relevant to the main plot of the story.
Sure. Let's say the opening paragraph is 'The old house stood at the end of the lane, its windows like dark, gaping mouths.' The story could continue like this: I approached it warily, my heart pounding in my chest. As I reached for the doorknob, a cold wind swept past me, making me shiver. I pushed the door open and it creaked ominously. Inside, the air was stale and smelled of decay. I walked through the hallway, the floorboards groaning under my feet. Shadows seemed to move on their own. I heard a faint whisper, but when I turned around, there was nothing there. Suddenly, a figure emerged from the darkness, its eyes glowing red. I tried to run, but my feet were rooted to the spot as it came closer and closer.
Set the tone and mood of your story in the opening paragraph. Use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture and make the reader feel like they're stepping into a new world. Also, introduce a character or a problem to pique the reader's interest.
You should start with a creepy setting or a mysterious event to draw readers in. Something like a dark and abandoned house or a strange noise in the night.
To write a great opening for a short story, think about creating suspense or curiosity. Maybe start with a vivid description or a question that intrigues the reader. Make them eager to discover what happens next.
One way is to start with a unique setting. For example, 'On a floating island, where the ground beneath your feet was not soil but a soft, cloud - like substance, a young wizard named Thaddeus began his day.' This kind of setting is not something we see in the real world and grabs the reader's attention right away.
Another option is to introduce a character's thoughts at the start of the war. 'He had always dreamed of glory, but as he stood on the edge of the battlefield, all he could think of was his mother's face. He wondered if he would ever see her again.' This gives a personal touch to the story.