<!-- The expanded outline (≈4 pages). -->

## Act I – Setup (≈ 25 % of the story)

<!-- Opening Image / Hook: A vivid snapshot of the protagonist’s ordinary world. Sets tone, setting, and the status‑quo the hero will soon leave. -->

<!-- Inciting Incident: An event that disrupts the status‑quo and forces the protagonist to confront a problem. Creates the central conflict and gives the hero a reason to act. -->

<!-- Key Event / Call to Adventure: The protagonist becomes aware of the stakes and is presented with a clear choice or challenge. Pushes the hero toward the journey; the point of no return begins to form. -->

<!-- Debate / Refusal of the Call: The hero hesitates, doubts, or resists the upcoming change.  Highlights internal conflict and makes the eventual commitment feel earned. | -->

<!-- Lock‑In / End of Act I: The hero decides to take action (or is forced into it). The story’s direction is now set. Marks the transition into the main confrontation; the protagonist is now “in the game.” -->

## Act II – Confrontation (≈ 50 % of the story)

<!-- First Plot Point: A decisive event propels the hero into a new world or situation (often a “point of no return”). Raises the stakes and moves the narrative firmly into the central conflict. -->

<!-- Rising Action / Obstacles: Series of challenges, setbacks, and revelations that test the hero’s resolve. Builds tension, deepens character development, and expands the story’s scope. -->

<!-- Midpoint: A major turning point—often a revelation, victory, or crisis—that changes the hero’s understanding or strategy. Re‑energizes the plot; the hero’s goal may shift or become clearer. -->

<!-- Complications & Darkest Moment: Stakes intensify; the hero may suffer a major loss or face apparent defeat. Heightens emotional investment and sets up the need for a final push. -->

<!-- Second Plot Point: The hero discovers a crucial piece of information or makes a decisive plan that leads to the climax. Provides the catalyst for the ultimate confrontation in Act III. -->

## Act III – Resolution (≈ 25 % of the story)

<!-- Climax: The highest‑stakes confrontation where the hero faces the central conflict head‑on. Delivers the story’s primary payoff; the outcome resolves the main tension. -->

<!-- Falling Action: Immediate consequences of the climax unfold; loose ends begin to tie up.  Shows the impact of the climax on characters and world. -->

<!-- Denouement / Resolution: Remaining subplots are resolved; the protagonist’s new equilibrium is shown. Gives closure, illustrating how the hero (and world) have changed. -->

<!-- Final Image: A closing snapshot that mirrors (or contrasts) the opening image, highlighting transformation. Reinforces the thematic arc and leaves a lasting impression. -->