1. Story within a Story Structure: A Frame Story involves an outer narrative that provides a context or setting for an inner narrative (or multiple inner narratives). The outer story begins, introduces characters and a situation, then transitions into the inner story, often told by one of the outer story's characters. The outer story typically concludes after the inner story finishes. 2. Purpose of the Outer Frame: The outer frame serves several key functions: Contextualization: It establishes why the inner story is being told (e.g., a group stranded by a storm, an old person reminiscing, a quest for knowledge). Mood and Tone Setting: It can set the initial mood, atmosphere, or thematic concerns that resonate with the inner story. Character Introduction: It introduces the characters who will either tell or listen to the inner story, allowing their reactions to shape the audience's perception. Thematic Connection: It can offer a thematic parallel or contrast to the inner story, enriching its meaning. 3. Relationship Between Frame and Inner Story: The inner story is the main event, carrying the core plot, character development, and conflict. The outer frame should complement the inner story without overshadowing it. The two narratives should feel connected, even if the connection is subtle (e.g., a moral learned in the inner story applies to a situation in the frame). The transition between the frame and the inner story (and back) should be clear and logical, often marked by a character beginning or ending their narration. 4. Varying Complexity: A frame story can be simple (a single narrator telling one tale) or complex (multiple nested stories, or a frame that constantly interacts with the inner story). The AI should adapt the complexity to the narrative's needs. 5. Potential for Character Development in Frame: While the inner story typically drives major character arcs, the frame characters can also experience subtle development or perspective shifts because of the inner story they hear or tell. Example for AI understanding (Do NOT literally use in story): Imagine a group of travelers sheltering from a storm, and one character begins to tell a scary tale (the inner story) that relates to the local folklore. The frame is the storm, the travelers, and their reactions, while the inner story is the actual scary tale.