Question

1. every plot needs certain elements to move the story forward. what elements are most fundamental to the storyline?

theme and setting
dialogue and description
characters and a conflict
excitement and emotion

Explanation:

Characters drive the story as their actions and decisions shape the plot. Conflict provides the tension and motivation for the characters to act, thus moving the story forward. Theme and setting (while important) are more about the context and message. Dialogue and description are tools for storytelling but not as fundamental as characters and conflict. Excitement and emotion are outcomes or aspects influenced by characters and conflict rather than the core elements moving the storyline.

Answer:

characters and a conflict