In a more complex plot, Hermione could be depressed due to a prophecy she discovers that she believes she can't change. Snape, having been involved with prophecies himself, might be the only one she can turn to. As they work together to understand and possibly alter the prophecy, their relationship evolves from animosity to a deep understanding. Along the way, Snape helps Hermione come to terms with her feelings and overcome her depression.
One possible plot could be that Hermione is struggling with the pressures of her studies and the ongoing battle against the Dark Arts. Snape, being a complex character, might notice her distress in his own way. Maybe he initially dismisses it but then realizes she's in a deeper state of depression. He could then use his knowledge of potions to try and help her, leading to an unexpected bond between them.
One possible plot could be that Snape discovers Hermione has been sneaking into the restricted section of the library for some research that could get her in big trouble. He threatens to expose her to the school authorities unless she does his bidding, like helping him with some dangerous potions experiments. This would put Hermione in a difficult situation as she doesn't want to break the rules further but also doesn't want to get in trouble.
Often, the plot starts with Hermione showing signs of depression, like isolation or a drop in academic performance. Then Snape notices. He may be initially reluctant to get involved but his sense of duty as a teacher or some hidden softness makes him step in.
One common plot is that Snape discovers Hermione's depression due to her overwork and the pressure of being a Muggle - born in a sometimes hostile wizarding world. He then takes it upon himself to mentor her in a way, teaching her how to better manage her stress and deal with the discrimination she faces. Another plot could be that Hermione is depressed because of a personal loss, like the death of a friend, and Snape, who has his own experiences with loss, helps her through it in an unexpected way.
You can try fanfiction websites like Archive of Our Own (AO3). It has a vast collection of fanfictions on various topics, including those related to Hermione and Snape. Just use the search function and type in relevant keywords like 'Hermione depressed Snape' to find the stories you're interested in.
Well, one possible plot could be that Hermione discovers a long - hidden side of Snape. Maybe she stumbles upon some of his old research or personal writings that show a different Snape than the one she knew at Hogwarts. This could lead to her having a newfound respect for him and they start to work together on some magical project, gradually forming an unlikely friendship.
One possible plot could be Hermione seeking to learn advanced potions from Snape. Snape, initially reluctant, gradually discovers Hermione's unique understanding of magic and begins to teach her rare techniques. They might also face challenges together within Hogwarts, like dealing with other students' jealousy or uncovering secrets about certain spells.
In a fanfiction, Snape might want to help Hermione when she is wrongly accused of stealing powerful magical artifacts. Snape, knowing her character, decides to use his skills as a Potions master and his knowledge of the castle's secrets to find the real culprit and clear Hermione's name. He could be motivated by his new - found respect for her intelligence and her Muggle - born status which he has come to understand better over time.
Maybe in a time - travel fanfiction. Hermione travels back in time and ends up in Snape's student days. She tries to change some events for the better, and in the process, she gets to know a younger Snape. Their interactions are initially rocky but gradually turn into something more, leading to a kiss. This would be a very different take on their relationship, as it involves a different time period and different versions of themselves.
Perhaps Snape discovers Hermione's extraordinary intelligence in a new way, which makes him excited. Maybe she solves a really difficult magical problem that he thought was unsolvable, and this newfound respect and admiration leads to his excitement.
Well, the plot might start with a magical accident. Maybe a spell goes wrong during one of Snape's lessons and Hermione is the only one who can help him reverse the effects. This brings them closer as they have to work together in secrecy. As time passes, they find that they share a similar passion for certain areas of magic, like ancient spells. Their relationship develops slowly, with Hermione helping Snape to heal some of his past traumas, and Snape teaching Hermione more advanced magic. But they must keep their relationship a secret from the other students and teachers who would not understand.