If the secret is a character's hidden identity, it can completely change the dynamics of the relationships in the story. For instance, if Harry Potter is actually a long - lost heir to a powerful wizarding family other than the Potters, it could lead to new alliances and enmities. People who once supported him might turn against him out of jealousy or fear, and those who were against him could see him as a valuable asset.
When the secret is about a forbidden magic, it drives the plot forward by creating a sense of danger. Let's say the secret is a magic spell that can bring back the dead but at a great cost. The characters might be tempted to use it for various reasons, like bringing back a loved one. But this would attract the attention of dark forces who want to use it for evil purposes, thus leading to a series of adventures and battles to protect or destroy the knowledge of this spell.
Suppose the secret is a pact made between two characters long ago. This pact could be the key to solving a current crisis in the wizarding world. As the fanfiction progresses, the discovery of this pact and the need to fulfill it or break it would shape the actions of the characters. They might have to go on a quest to find the details of the pact, face obstacles along the way, and make difficult decisions based on what they find, all of which would be integral to the plot.
Well, it could be that a character has a hidden magical ability that's not part of the original canon. For example, maybe Neville secretly has the power to communicate with magical plants in a more profound way than we thought, and this ability is crucial to solving a big mystery in the fanfiction.
If her secret power is strong healing abilities, it could change the plot by allowing her team to take more risks in battles. They know that even if they get seriously injured, Sakura can heal them. So they might engage in more dangerous missions or battles against stronger opponents.
The 'darkness' can make the plot more complex. It might introduce new challenges for the characters that they have to overcome. For example, if there are new dark spells or dark creatures in the fanfiction, the characters need to find ways to deal with them.
It can create immediate conflict. If a young wizard performs magic accidentally, the Trace can bring the Ministry's attention, like in some fanfics where a minor character's small magic act sets off a chain of events because the Ministry gets involved.
Their friends could be divided in their reactions. Some friends might be supportive in a quiet way. They might see how happy Harry and Ginny are, even in secret, and be happy for them. However, others might be worried. They could be afraid that if the relationship is discovered, it could cause problems. For instance, it might cause a scandal in Hogwarts if the teachers find out. And some friends might be jealous, especially if they have a crush on either Harry or Ginny. This could create some tension among the friend group.
It can change the whole dynamic. For example, if a character gets access to divine energy, they might be able to easily defeat enemies that were previously unbeatable. This could lead to a quicker resolution of conflicts or create new ones as other characters might be jealous or afraid of this new power.
It can completely change the direction of the story. If a major character burns their bridges with Hogwarts, for example, they might go off on their own adventure, and the fanfiction could then focus on their journey outside the familiar school setting.
The 'misery crossover' often changes the relationships between characters. A character with a tragic past may be more guarded and less likely to trust the friendly and open - hearted characters in the Harry Potter series. This mistrust can lead to a lot of drama and new storylines. Also, their different values due to their past miseries can drive the plot in unexpected directions. For example, a character from a world where survival is the only goal may see the use of magic for fun or minor tasks as a waste, and this could cause arguments and division among the characters.
If the familiar is something like a dragon, it could greatly impact the plot. Dragons are powerful and feared. The character with the dragon familiar might be constantly hunted by those who want to use the dragon for their own purposes or those who fear its power. This would create a lot of conflict and drive the story forward as the character has to protect their dragon and themselves.
Goblin magic can drive the plot in many ways. For instance, if a goblin - made magical artifact is stolen, it can set off a chain of events. The unique properties of goblin magic might make it crucial for a character to solve a mystery or overcome an obstacle. If a wizard needs to access a goblin - enchanted vault, they have to deal with the goblin magic protecting it, which can lead to all sorts of adventures and conflicts.