: Re: How to make a world building reveal relevant to the plot I am writing a story that is based on mythology. I have my own characters which have their own voice. One of those characters, the

@Smith147

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Does it need to be built upon?
If your character bumps into an old legendary hero, and they give a useful bit of advice, it doesn't necessarily mean that the hero is invested in your character's journey - just that their paths crossed. There are other stories unfolding elsewhere in your world that you aren't showing. Perhaps the old hero's story is "quiet retirement in a village where no one knows who he is"
If you find this is a repeating theme, then you might want to start thinking about those background events - why are so many old heroes, monsters, demons and gods "bumping into" your character with a "wink-wink-nudge-nudge"?
Is there some secret in their background - or in their future - that these mythical eidolons are aware of? Are they subtly directing their path or testing them for some reason? Or, do they do this to lots of people, and the only unusual thing is that, this time, it's been noticed?
Lots of authors feel the need to grab every detail, and tie it into an overarching plot. But others have mastered the art of "one-off" references, little titbits which add richness to the world without impacting the plot in any meaningful way, and may never be referenced again.

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