Merlin can be developed by showing his growth as a strategist. As a soldier, he would need to learn how to plan battles and outwit his enemies. His skills in magic could be incorporated into his military strategies, making him a unique and formidable force on the battlefield.
One common theme is the struggle between Merlin's magic and the military structure. In most of these fanfictions, Merlin has to keep his magic a secret among the soldiers who may not be accepting of it. Another theme is loyalty. Whether it's his loyalty to his comrades as a soldier or his loyalty to his true self as a sorcerer. And of course, heroism. Merlin often becomes a hero in these stories, using his magic to save the day in the military situations.
One common theme is the power of magic in a military setting. Merlin's magic often provides an edge in battles or helps solve military - related problems.
One common theme could be loyalty. Merlin, being a soldier, would show loyalty to his comrades, his cause, or his kingdom. Another theme might be sacrifice. Soldiers often have to make sacrifices, and in a Merlin - as - a - soldier fanfiction, he might sacrifice his personal desires for the greater good. Also, the theme of honor could be prominent. He would strive to uphold his honor in battle and in his interactions with others.
Well, I really like 'Merlin and the Soldier's Code'. In this fanfiction, Merlin has to balance his identity as a sorcerer with the strict rules of being a soldier. It's fascinating to see how he navigates the two worlds. 'The Gallant Soldier Merlin' is also good. It focuses on Merlin's heroic deeds as a soldier and how his friends react to his new role. And don't forget 'Merlin, Soldier of Magic' where his magic becomes a crucial part of his soldiering life.
I also like 'Merlin Among the Soldiers'. It's a story that focuses on Merlin's journey as he disguises himself as a regular soldier while still using his magic secretly. The author does a great job of creating tension as Merlin tries to keep his identity hidden from his comrades while saving them from various threats.
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.
If Merlin died in the fanfiction, it could trigger a series of tragic events. The balance of power could tip, and the villains might seize the opportunity to attack. It could also bring out hidden strengths in the remaining characters as they try to cope with the loss.
One more idea is that Merlin is tied to the bed in a dream - like state created by an ancient magic. In this dream world, he is faced with his deepest fears and insecurities. His friends in the real world notice his strange behavior and try to wake him up. Merlin, while in the dream, has to find the source of the magic that is binding him and break free. Through his inner strength and the memories of his friends, he manages to do so and wakes up, having learned more about himself and his magic.