How does Dark Merlin fanfiction differ from the original Merlin series?

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.

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.

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.

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.

He could become a Dark Lord due to betrayal. If someone he trusted deeply, like Arthur perhaps, turned on him because of his magic, it might push him over the edge.

In fanfiction, the revelation of Merlin's magic can be much more elaborate. In the show, it was a slow build - up, but in fanfictions, it can happen all at once or in a very different order. For example, he might reveal his magic to Morgana first instead of Arthur. Also, the extent of his magic can be different. Fanfictions might give him abilities like teleportation or mind - reading which were not shown in the show. Another difference is the reaction of the characters. In the show, Arthur had a certain way of reacting, but in fanfictions, characters can have a wide range of reactions from immediate acceptance to total rejection and trying to kill Merlin.

The dark fanfiction may also explore themes that the original series only hinted at or avoided. Such as the true nature of the Irken Empire in a more sinister way. It might show how Zim's loyalty to his home planet is more complex and disturbing, while the original series focused more on his individual antics on Earth.

If Merlin is a Dark Lord in fanfiction, it could be an interesting exploration of the 'nature vs. nurture' concept. Maybe he turned dark because of the constant fear of being discovered and persecuted for his magic. His actions as a Dark Lord might include taking over Camelot or exacting revenge on those who wronged him in the past. It gives a whole new perspective on his character.

In the original Merlin storyline, Kilgarrah was often a mysterious and somewhat distant figure. When they are mates in fanfiction, it humanizes Kilgarrah to an extent. He becomes more involved in Merlin's day - to - day life. Their relationship becomes more central to the story. Instead of Merlin's adventures being mainly about his role in Camelot and his relationship with Arthur, now his relationship with Kilgarrah also plays a major role. This can lead to new sub - plots. For example, they might have to hide their relationship from some of the more superstitious or anti - dragon characters in Camelot, which adds a new layer of drama to the story.

The main difference is the 'dark gamer' concept. In the original Percy Jackson series, there's no such element. The fanfiction adds this new aspect, which changes the nature of Percy's adventures. In the original, his challenges are more traditional in the context of Greek mythology. But in the fanfiction, he might face challenges that are more like video game levels.