Merlin could influence Harry to be more empathetic. Merlin, having witnessed the rise and fall of many, would understand the importance of seeing things from different perspectives. So Harry, under Merlin's tutelage, may start to look at the motives of his enemies and not just see them as pure evil. This could make Harry a more complex and well - rounded character, as he tries to find solutions that don't always involve combat but rather understanding and negotiation.
Merlin's magic is very old and powerful. It could make Harry more attuned to the natural elements of magic. For example, he might be able to control the weather more easily during battles. His spell - casting could also become more instinctive and less reliant on wands as Merlin's magic was less wand - centric.
Merlin, being smart, could influence Harry's view on magic. He might show Harry that magic is not just about power but also about wisdom and responsibility. He could share his own experiences from his time, which could make Harry more cautious and strategic in his actions. For example, when dealing with Voldemort, Harry might start thinking more long - term and not just react impulsively like he sometimes did. Merlin could also introduce Harry to different magical cultures and traditions that were long forgotten, expanding Harry's understanding of the magical world and making him a more well - rounded wizard.
Merlin might use his magic skills to help Harry. For example, he could use his knowledge of ancient spells to protect Harry from dark magic. Maybe he helps Harry in battles by creating magical shields or illusions to deceive the enemies.
Harry's character would develop in a more patient and self - assured way. Merlin's long - lived experience and his different approach to magic would shape Harry. Instead of the somewhat isolated and often confused boy in the original story, he would be more open - minded. He would be exposed to different magical cultures and ideas from Merlin, which would make him a more well - rounded wizard. He would also be more in tune with the ancient and hidden parts of magic, and this would give him a different kind of power and presence.
Merlin's character may become more confident. Being raised by dragons, he has a different source of wisdom. He might be more fearless in the face of danger compared to his canon counterpart. For instance, when facing Morgana's schemes, he won't be as hesitant.
Merlin's character might develop a sense of loyalty to Nimueh at first. Since she raised him, he would see her as a mother figure. But as he grows and experiences more of the world, he starts to question her motives. This leads to a more complex character as he has to decide where his true loyalties lie.
Merlin might become more confident as Harry Potter. In his past life, he was often hiding his magic, but as Harry, he can be more open in the wizarding world. So he could be more assertive in dealing with challenges.
Maybe he finds it in a hidden chamber at Hogwarts. There could be some ancient magic protecting it, but Harry, with his knack for getting into trouble and finding things, stumbles upon it.
Well, in many such fanfictions, Merlin might use his magic skills. He could draw on ancient spells and his deep knowledge of magic. Maybe he starts by gathering special materials like a rare wood from an enchanted forest. Then, with precise incantations and his powerful magic, he shapes the wood into the form of a staff, imbuing it with magical properties.
In the fanfiction, Merlin might use his ancient and powerful magic to source rare materials for Harry's wand. He could search for a special type of wood, perhaps from a magically protected tree. And for the core, he might look for a unique magical essence like the hair of a mythical creature. He would then combine these elements with his incantations and spells to shape the wand into a perfect tool for Harry.