The plot structure might be different. Other Merlin fanfictions could follow the general storyline of the show, with Merlin helping Arthur and dealing with the usual villains. However, 'not just a servant' might have a completely different plot. It could be centered around Merlin's own adventures, independent of Arthur, or it could be a story that rewrites the entire Camelot mythology from a new perspective with Merlin at the center in a non - servant role.
In Royal Fem Merlin fanfiction, Merlin is female, which changes the power dynamics and relationships. For example, her interactions with Arthur might have a different romantic or platonic undertone. Traditional fanfiction usually follows the male Merlin's story.
In 'badass Merlin fanfiction', Merlin is often more assertive. In the original series, he had to hide his magic a lot. But in fanfiction, he can be bold with his powers. For example, he might openly use magic in Camelot without fear. Also, the relationships in fanfiction can be more intense. His friendship with Arthur could be more of an equal partnership in terms of power, rather than Merlin always being in a subservient role.
Well, in the original Merlin series, Merlin is mainly a hero. But in Dark Merlin fanfiction, he becomes the antagonist or at least a morally ambiguous character. His actions and motives are often much darker.
One idea could be to explore Merlin's internal struggle in more depth. He has to balance the needs and wants of two very different masters, which can be extremely challenging. For example, what if the two masters have conflicting goals regarding the safety of the kingdom? Merlin would have to use his magic and wits to keep both happy while also ensuring the greater good. Another idea could be to introduce a new character who discovers Merlin's double - serving situation and tries to use it to their advantage, creating a whole new set of problems for Merlin to solve.
In the original Merlin story, his magic is just one part of him, but in the fanfiction 'merlin is magic itself', it becomes his central essence. This changes the way his character is perceived and the role he plays in the story.
One scenario could be when Merlin loses his best friend. In some fanfictions, if Arthur is killed in a battle and Merlin is powerless to save him, he would break down in tears. He has dedicated his life to protecting Arthur and seeing his failure would be a huge blow.
A key element could be the altered power structure. With Merlin serving Morgana, the typical good - bad divide is blurred. Another element is the loyalty conflict. Merlin is loyal to Arthur and Camelot in the original, but as a servant, he has to show loyalty to Morgana. Also, the magic use would be different. He might have to use his magic in ways that support Morgana's goals, which is against his nature.
One possibility in this fanfiction could be that Merlin's role as Morgana's servant leads to a complex power dynamic. He might be using his position to secretly protect Arthur or Camelot from within Morgana's sphere of influence. Maybe he has to perform magic tasks for her while also trying to keep his true intentions hidden.
In a more humorous take on the 'Merlin tied to a bed' fanfiction, it could be that Merlin has fallen ill and the overly - protective Gaius has tied him to the bed to make sure he rests. Merlin, being the active person he is, complains constantly. Arthur comes to visit and teases Merlin about finally being still for once. Meanwhile, Merlin tries to convince Arthur to let him loose, promising that he'll be fine. Eventually, Gaius relents and unties Merlin, who then immediately starts bustling around the room.
It could be for comedic effect to lighten the mood and add some fun to the story.