In 3–5 sentences, describe changes you could make to the dream subplot that would increase tension, mystery, or surprise in the story: The Crow Child

1. Introducing a recurring dream motif where the crow child gradually reveals cryptic messages to the protagonist, hinting at a hidden prophecy or secret. This would increase tension as the protagonist becomes more desperate to decipher the meaning behind the dreams and their purpose in the story.

2. Amplifying the surreal and haunting nature of the dreams by incorporating elements of magical realism. For example, the dreams could transport the protagonist to an eerie parallel world where they must uncover the truth about the crow child and their connection to the protagonist's past. This would increase mystery and surprise as the protagonist grapples with the blurred lines between reality and dreams.

3. Adding a twist by revealing that the crow child in the dreams is not just a figment of the protagonist's imagination, but a real entity with its own agenda. This would create an unexpected surprise and increase tension as the protagonist realizes they are being manipulated by forces beyond their comprehension, and must navigate a web of deceit and danger to uncover the truth.