Some fanfics explore the idea of a magical bond being formed between them. Maybe it's a spell gone wrong or a mysterious ancient magic. This bond makes them share emotions and thoughts. As a result, they are forced to understand each other on a deeper level. It's a very creative plot as it takes their relationship to a whole new level of complexity. They have to deal with not only their own feelings but also the ones they are receiving from the other through the bond.
A common and really interesting plot is the idea of a time - turner being involved. For example, in some fanfics, James Potter goes back in time to understand Snape better. This allows for a whole new exploration of their relationship as James sees Snape in a different light, away from the schoolyard rivalries. It's a great way to rewrite their history in a more positive way and shows how they could have been friends under different circumstances.
One plot could be that Snape, under some dark magic influence, forces Harry to accompany him on a dangerous mission to retrieve a lost magical artifact. Snape believes Harry has some hidden power that can help. Another could be Snape forcing Harry to study a very advanced and dangerous form of magic, thinking it will protect Harry in the long run. And there could also be a plot where Snape forces Harry to enter a magically sealed area to face some long - forgotten threat that only Harry can potentially defeat.
Yes, there are quite a few. You can start by looking on platforms like Archive of Our Own (AO3). There, you'll find a variety of fanfics exploring their complex relationship. Some focus on their school days and how their rivalry might have had different turns. Others might be more AU (alternate universe) based, imagining different scenarios for them, like if they had to work together on a special project or if they were sorted into different houses.
There are also fanfictions where Snape time travels and gets involved in the founding of Hogwarts era. This is a very creative plot as it combines Snape's character with the ancient history of the wizarding world. He might use his modern - day knowledge to influence the founding principles of Hogwarts or have interactions with the founders themselves, which completely changes the course of wizarding history.
In some fanfictions, the flagrum fire whip is enchanted in a way that it can control emotions. Snape has to figure out how to break this enchantment. This plot is full of mystery and suspense as he tries different spells and potions. It also shows his intelligence and determination. Also, there are fanfics where the whip is a key to a hidden magical realm, and Snape is the chosen one to explore it. This takes Snape on an adventure full of magical creatures and ancient spells.
The complexity of their relationship. They start as rivals, with James often bullying Severus. But there's so much more beneath the surface. It makes for great storytelling as writers can explore how they might overcome their differences or if they can ever truly forgive each other. There's also the connection through Lily Evans, which adds another layer of intrigue.
Another popular theme is the idea of an alternate universe where they could have been friends. In these fanfictions, events are changed, like Snape not being sorted into Slytherin or James being more understanding, which leads to a different relationship between them.
One of the most interesting plots could be Snape having to protect Harry in a very unexpected way. For example, in a fanfic where dark magic has been unleashed in a different form and it targets Harry specifically. Snape, despite his initial reluctance, realizes that Harry is the key to stopping it and has to put aside their differences. Another plot could involve Snape and Harry being transported to an alternate magical realm where they have to rely on each other to survive. They slowly start to understand each other's past traumas and develop a grudging respect. A third plot might be that Snape discovers a long - lost prophecy about Harry that changes his perception of him completely and he becomes his secret mentor in a much more involved way than in the original books.
One great fanfiction might be one that delves into Tobias Snape's influence on Severus's early life. It could show how Tobias's harsh nature shaped Severus's personality, making him the brooding and complex character we know. For example, a story could explore how Severus coped with his father's abuse at home and how that affected his relationships at Hogwarts.
A possible fanfic could explore what would happen if Severus Snape had to save James Potter's life. Maybe James is in a life - threatening situation during a battle with Death Eaters. Snape, despite his hatred for James in some ways, decides to help him because he realizes that James is important to Lily. This event could be a turning point in their relationship, making Snape question his own feelings and James to reevaluate his view of Snape.
I really liked 'Snape and Potter: A Reimagined Past'. In this fanfic, there's a magical accident that forces Snape and James to work together. As they do, they start to understand each other more. It's interesting to see how their personalities clash at first but then gradually find common ground. The author writes in a very engaging style, and it's full of little details about Hogwarts life that add to the authenticity of the story.