One interesting original character is often a powerful mage who comes to Camelot to either help or challenge Merlin. This character might have a different style of magic that Merlin has never seen before. Another could be a mysterious traveler who has knowledge about Merlin's true destiny but is reluctant to share it all at once. There are also original characters who are commoners with hidden magical abilities that Merlin discovers and decides to train.
In Merlin fanfiction, an interesting original character could be an ancient spirit that is awakened by Merlin's magic. This spirit has a connection to the old magic of the land and gives Merlin new insights into Camelot's past and future. Another original character might be a bard who travels around Camelot and the surrounding kingdoms, spreading stories about Merlin. This bard has a way of influencing public opinion about Merlin and his magic. There are also original characters that are servants in Camelot's castle who end up being part of Merlin's secret network to protect Arthur and Camelot from magical threats.
Some original characters are created as love interests for Merlin. These characters are usually very strong - willed and have their own unique skills. For example, a female warrior who is also a magic - user and she and Merlin meet during a battle outside of Camelot. There are also original characters that are part of a secret magical order. They have their own rules and beliefs about magic, and Merlin has to navigate his relationship with them while still being loyal to Camelot. In addition, there are characters like a young orphan with a special gift for seeing the future who Merlin takes under his wing.
Arthur is definitely one. His relationship with Merlin is a key part of the stories, and seeing his perspective on Merlin's magic can be really engaging. Another is Morgana. Her complex personality and her own magical abilities add a lot of depth to the fanfiction.
One popular plotline is exploring Merlin's hidden powers more deeply. For example, fanfictions might have him discover new spells or abilities that were not shown in the original series. Another common one is alternative relationships. Instead of the canon relationships, writers may create different pairings for Merlin, like a friendship - turned - romance with a side character. There are also plotlines that involve Merlin changing the course of major events in Camelot's history, such as preventing certain battles or political upheavals.
There could be a new love interest for Merlin. This character might be a powerful sorceress who initially clashes with Merlin but then falls in love with him. She could have her own set of powers and a backstory that is intertwined with Merlin's new journey. Also, there might be an old character from the original series who has also been reborn in some way, like Morgana. Her new incarnation could have a different role, either as an ally or a more complex antagonist to Merlin.
Merlin himself is of course very interesting. His complex character with his magic and his loyalty. Morgana is also quite fascinating as she has her own struggles and powers.
Gwaine is also well - liked. He can be the fun - loving friend in modern fanfiction, always getting Arthur and Merlin into (and out of) trouble, whether it's at a party or during some kind of modern - day quest.
Merlin himself is extremely popular. After all, the fanfiction is centered around him. Arthur is also very popular as his relationship with Merlin is a major aspect of the original series and fanfictions often explore it further.
Nick Mallory is a very popular character to focus on. His journey and growth throughout the original story make him an interesting subject for fanfiction. You can explore his further adventures or what he might have been like before the events of the main story.
Obviously Merlin is a very popular choice. His magic and his role as the hidden protector of Arthur make him a central and interesting character. Writers can explore his inner struggles with his magic and his loyalty to Camelot.
Perhaps some of the snooty nobles who look down on Merlin and constantly try to get him into trouble. They could be making fun of his clumsy ways one too many times and he just snaps and hits them with a shoe. It would be a moment of satisfaction for the readers who don't like those arrogant characters.
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.