What does the climax in a story typically lead to?

The climax of a story is the point of greatest tension and conflict, where the main character faces a pivotal challenge or decision. This moment is critical as it directly impacts the outcome of the narrative. Following the climax, the story typically moves toward the denouement or resolution, where the conflicts are resolved, and the consequences of the climax become clear. This progression allows the audience to see how the characters evolve as a result of their experiences during the climax, thus providing closure to the story. The resolution ties up loose ends and often reflects on the themes and moral lessons presented throughout the narrative.