Stage 9: The Reward

And after your hero has gone through all of the Ordeal, you may want or need to reward them with something that they can use to take on the final threat they face during the climax of your story.

Here are the five types of rewards that your protagonist may need to prevail at the end of their journey.

Special Weapon

If you're writing in the action, science fiction, thriller, or fantasy genres, your character may need a special weapon — which Joseph Campbell referred to as "The Sword" — to defeat their greatest conflict.This physical manifestation of The Reward can also be used in other genres, but it's far more prevalent in ones that involve action and adventure.

2. An Elixir

An elixir is a magical or medicinal potion that can heal a wounded ally or land. During the peak of a story, the hero and their allies usually find themselves in peril — their lowest of lows. An elixir can be something that heals them enough to prevail in the end.

3. Knowledge

Knowledge is often mightier than any sword. It can be a fantastic tool to acquire to defeat a foe. It can drive a protagonist's internal need to succeed. It can inform them of the information they require to solve a final riddle or devise a certain plan of attack.In Burning America, Paul obtains knowledge from two attorneys, his family, in particular, his mother and sister; and, perhaps more arguably, from Kaitrin. Knowledge allows him to proceed as he needs to succeed and carry on the fight toward the reward, Kaitrin returning home.


4. Experience

Sometimes protagonists have to experience an event or moment that opens their eyes and gives them the confidence that they need to prevail.To a lesser extent, but still relevant in Burning America, is the experience that Paul enjoys to encourage him from time to time throughout his Ordeal.

5. Reconciliation

When a protagonist reconciles with a love interest — as we see so often in romantic comedies and love stories — that reward can help them to conquer any emotional conflict that they've been facing. This reward is yet another outstanding option for dramatic stories, but it can also work within genre flicks as well.

The Reward offers the protagonist the added boost they need to propel themselves through the conflict they face during the climax of the story where they are facing their toughest challenge — be it physical or emotional. A special weapon, an elixir, some knowledge, an experience, or reconciliation are the five types of rewards that heroes need to prevail.Burning America: In the Best Interest of the Children?https://www.amazon.com/G-Mick-Smith/e/B0B59X5R79

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Mick, The Doctor of Digital, Smith mick.smith@wsiworld.com
Burning America: In the Best Interest of the Children?
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