How do quest fantasy stories usually start?

In fantasy quest novels, the plot often begins with a problem or a goal. This could be something like finding a lost artifact or saving a kingdom. The characters then start their journey. As they progress, they meet new allies and enemies. They might have to solve puzzles or overcome their own weaknesses. For instance, in 'The Hobbit', Bilbo has to deal with his fear as he faces trolls, goblins, and the dragon Smaug during his quest.

Typically, these novels begin by introducing the character in a familiar world. In 'The Wizard of Oz', Dorothy is at home on the farm. Then, a natural or supernatural event occurs. It could be a cyclone in Dorothy's case, which whisks her away to the new world. This allows the reader to relate to the character's initial state before being plunged into the unknown and magical realm of the portal fantasy.

Often, they start with some sort of accident or unexpected event. For example, in 'Alice's Adventures in Wonderland', Alice falls down a rabbit hole. In 'The Chronicles of Narnia', the children stumble upon the wardrobe. It's a common way to get the human characters into the other world suddenly.

Often, it starts with a simple moment. Maybe a compliment that was a bit more than just friendly. For example, 'You look really beautiful today' in a tone that was different from the usual friendly banter.

Often, they start with a normal - seeming situation. For instance, a person finding an old object or moving into a new place. Like in 'Ben Drowned', it starts with someone getting an old Majora's Mask cartridge.

Often, they start from a very close friendship. For example, two friends who have known each other for a long time might suddenly realize there's a physical attraction. One night, after a party where they were dancing closely, they might share a kiss and that could be the start.

Well, it can start with a simple glance or a friendly chat. Sometimes, it's a shared interest or a chance encounter that kicks things off.

In hero quest novels, the main character often starts in an ordinary state. For example, in 'The Lord of the Rings', Frodo was just a simple hobbit living in the Shire at first. Then they are called to action, like Frodo being given the task to destroy the Ring. Through various trials and encounters with different characters, they grow. They learn new skills, gain wisdom, and change their worldviews as they progress on their quests.

They usually start with a spooky setting. For example, 'It was a dark and stormy night in the middle of the forest. The campers huddled around the fire as the wind howled through the trees.' This kind of description sets the mood right away.

Often, they start with a setting like a dark forest or an old, abandoned place. For example, 'In a deep, dark forest where the trees seemed to reach out with their gnarled branches, there once was a group of hikers...' This immediately sets a spooky mood.