One common plotline is Merlin using his youth to his advantage. For example, he might be able to blend in more easily with the younger generation in the kingdom, gathering information that Arthur can't. Another is Arthur having to deal with his own insecurities about getting older while Merlin is full of energy. Also, there could be a plotline where Merlin's younger age makes him more adaptable to new magic or technologies that are emerging, and Arthur has to rely on him for that knowledge.
Often, you'll see plotlines where Merlin's youth causes others to underestimate him. But then he surprises everyone, especially Arthur, with his wisdom and abilities. There are also plotlines where the age difference creates a bit of a love - triangle situation. Maybe a younger character is interested in Merlin, while Merlin has eyes only for Arthur. And sometimes, the story focuses on how Arthur and Merlin bridge the gap between their different life experiences due to the age difference.
One common plotline is Merlin using his age - related wisdom to save Arthur from various threats. For instance, he might have prior knowledge of a magical curse that's about to befall Arthur and uses his experience to counter it.
One common plotline could be Arthur realizing his roughness is wrong and trying to redeem himself. Another might be Merlin getting fed up and leaving, which then makes Arthur see how much he needs Merlin.
Well, leadership is a common theme. Arthur's growth as a leader and how Merlin influences that. Also, the theme of sacrifice. There are stories where either Merlin or Arthur has to sacrifice something for the greater good of Camelot. And then there's the theme of adventure. They go on quests together which helps in building their relationship in a non - romantic way.
One interesting plotline could be Merlin using his magic in modern times to secretly protect Arthur, who is a powerful businessman or politician. For example, he might use magic to prevent assassination attempts on Arthur.
The age difference in this fanfiction can have a profound impact on their relationship. Merlin's youth could lead to him being more impulsive, which might initially annoy Arthur. However, it also means Merlin has a more open - minded view. Arthur, being older, has more experience and power, but Merlin's younger age gives him a certain charm and innocence. This contrast can lead to a relationship where they both balance each other out, with Merlin bringing spontaneity and Arthur bringing stability.
One interesting plotline could be the knights and Arthur facing a new, powerful dark magic threat that only Merlin's unique powers can help them overcome. They might journey to a far - off land in search of a magical artifact Merlin has foreseen as the key to victory.
One common theme is friendship. Their relationship is often at the heart of the stories, showing how they support and grow with each other. Another is loyalty. Arthur and Merlin are extremely loyal to each other in the original series, and this is often emphasized in fanfiction.
Magic is a big theme. Since Merlin has magic in the series, fanfictions may center around how he uses it in relation to Arthur. For example, secretly protecting Arthur with his magic. Love is also a theme that pops up. Whether it's a deep platonic love or a romantic one, it's often a part of these fanfictions. The idea of destiny is another, as they seem to be intertwined in the original story, and fanfictions might play with that concept.
One common theme is the jealousy over their respective friendships. For example, Arthur might be jealous if Merlin spends too much time with other knights. Another theme could be romantic jealousy. If there are love interests involved for either of them, it can lead to some intense jealous moments. Also, jealousy over power or status can play a part. If Merlin's magic gives him an edge in certain situations, Arthur might feel a twinge of jealousy, and vice versa.
One interesting plotline could be Arthur's initial shock and then his gradual acceptance of Merlin's new identity. He might start to see Merlin in a whole new light and realize how much power Merlin truly holds.