How does 'the darkness that comes before' influence the plot in dark fantasy novels?

One common element is a dark and often oppressive setting. This could be a decaying city, a haunted forest, or a war - torn land. It sets the mood for the entire story. Also, magic is usually present, but it's not always a positive force. It might be wild, uncontrollable, or have a high cost to use. The power dynamics between different groups, such as the ruling class and the common folk, are also important. The ruling class may use their power in cruel and unjust ways, leading to unrest and conflict.

Dark matter can be used as a mystery element in the plot. For instance, a sudden discovery of strange gravitational effects caused by dark matter could set off a chain of events where scientists race to understand it before some catastrophic event occurs.

It has a big influence. It introduced new ideas about world - building. The concept of the Dark Tower being at the center of multiple realities inspired other works to play with the idea of interconnected universes. Its unique mix of old - west and fantasy elements also led to more works exploring such combinations.

Religion can influence fantasy novels in many ways. For example, it can provide a rich source of mythology and world - building. Many fantasy novels draw on religious concepts such as angels, demons, and the afterlife. Religion can also shape the moral and ethical framework of a fantasy world. In some fantasy novels, characters may follow a religious code that guides their actions.

Steampunk adds a unique aesthetic to fantasy novels. It brings in elements like steam - powered machinery, gears, and Victorian - era fashion. For example, in many steampunk fantasy novels, you'll see characters traveling in elaborate airships powered by steam engines. This gives the story a very distinct look and feel compared to traditional fantasy.

Influence in fantasy novels can manifest through magical means. For instance, a spell might be cast to make a character more obedient or brave. It can also be through the charisma of a leader. A king or queen in a fantasy world might influence their subjects to fight for the kingdom.

MBTI can influence the plot in fiction novels by dictating character actions. For example, an extroverted character (like an ESFP) might be more likely to initiate social interactions that drive the plot forward. If a character is an INTJ, they may plan and strategize, which can create twists in the plot as they outwit opponents. In a mystery novel, an ISTP detective might use their practical skills and ability to observe details to solve the case, thus shaping the plot's progression.

Mentally, it can cloud a character's judgment. They may start making decisions that are not in line with their usual values. This is often used to create internal conflict within the character, as they struggle between their old self and the new, corrupted self influenced by the dark energon. For instance, a character who used to value friendship and loyalty might start betraying their comrades under the influence of dark energon, and this transformation can be explored in great detail in the fanfiction.

In many web novels, the cultivation system sets the ultimate goal for the protagonist. As the character progresses through the levels of cultivation, they uncover secrets about the world and themselves. Their journey of cultivation often intersects with the fate of the world, like having to defeat a great evil that threatens the balance of the cultivation world. So, the cultivation system is deeply intertwined with the plot development, providing a framework for the story's progression and the characters' growth.

The femme fatale often serves as a catalyst for the action in mystery novels. Her actions and motives are not always clear at first, which adds to the suspense. She may be involved in a web of lies and secrets that the main character has to unravel. If she is the object of the male protagonist's affection, his judgment might be clouded, making it harder for him to solve the mystery. Also, she can be a key figure in a conspiracy, which makes the plot more complex and engaging.