I'm having trouble writing because I can't plot out my entire story. I understand my beginning, the climax, and end, as well as some other major points I want to focus on, but I find that when it comes to writing story between those points has been difficult. I was wondering if anyone has any tips on how best to build up and fill in more writing towards those parts of the story.
If anyone needs to know, a quick summary of the plot is my main character is cursed, and has to get to an island with an enchanted spring to undo the curse. She finds the help of a sea witch and several sailors to take her to the island. Near the end they're captured by a rival ship, but eventually make it to the island where they break free and my main character's curse is broken. Between the beginning, where they set off to the island, and the climax, where they're captured, is where I'm having the most trouble.
Maybe there are some items they need to retrieve in order to find the island such as a map or compass. Having a competition to find these items between the rival ship could make for interesting scenes. Maybe the spring demands a sacrifice. You could also focus on how you want the characters to develop as people. What flaws does your main character have that can be drawn out by events in the story? Mistakes that they can make? Those are some of the things I like to think about.
You can also think about, what is the absolute worst thing that could happen to your characters? And then make it happen. Think about your side characters motivations. Why would they want to help your MC? What do they get out of it? What are some hobbies or interests of your MC? Can they pursue them somehow while on the ship? Put obstacles in your character's way and make them struggle to get over them. But make sure they are mindful and help shape your character in some way and aren't just obvious filler.
For some specific things;
-How do they find the sea witch? Why would she agree to help them? Is she the type to betray them easily or is she unwaveringly loyal?
-How does your MC acquire a ship and crew? Do they need money for it? Seduce the Captain? Blackmail? Or do they steal the ship?
-What about the weather? Could there be a storm? What if they get lost?
-How does the crew feel about the MC or the Sea Witch on board? I'm sure there are diverse thoughts. Maybe someone (or a group of someones) is a little aggressive?
