The snake in the lake in Harry Potter fanfiction might represent an ancient magic that has been long forgotten. It could be a link to the very origins of magic in the wizarding world. The lake itself might be a magical place that amplifies the snake's powers. Characters in the fanfiction might encounter the snake and have to figure out how to either befriend it or defeat it in order to progress in their adventures. It could also be a source of a unique magical ingredient that is crucial for a powerful spell or potion.
The snake might be significant in relation to the Slytherin house. Since snakes are associated with Slytherin, it could be a connection to that side of the wizarding world. It could be a symbol of Harry exploring the darker or more complex aspects of magic that are often associated with Slytherin, even though he's a Gryffindor.
The snake's help could represent an unexpected alliance. In the Harry Potter series, snakes are often seen as symbols of Slytherin, which is usually at odds with Harry. So it's significant as it breaks the stereotype of enmity between Gryffindor (represented by Harry) and Slytherin.
It could also be a snake from the Forbidden Forest. There are many unknown and mysterious creatures in there. A snake from that forest might be more in tune with the natural magic of Hogwarts. Harry, being the curious and kind - hearted person he is, might come across it during one of his adventures in the forest and start a friendship with it.
It could be Nagini. Even though in the original series she was more of a servant to Voldemort, in the fanfiction, she could have a different personality and form a bond with Harry.
A succubus with a snake - like tongue in a Harry Potter fanfic might be a new and unique creation by the author. It could be part of a plot where she uses her appearance, including the snake - like tongue, to infiltrate the wizarding world. Maybe she's a spy for a dark force, and the tongue is a way for her to identify others who might be sympathetic to her cause. Or perhaps it's just a cool and spooky feature that the author added to make the character more memorable and add a touch of mystery to the fanfic.
Maybe it's an anonymous gift from someone who has been observing Harry. This person could be a former student of Hogwarts who has a special connection to snakes and sees that Harry has a kind heart and would take good care of the snake. So they leave the snake for Harry to find with a simple note that just says 'For Harry Potter'.
Well, the plot could be that Harry discovers a snake in the Forbidden Forest. The snake might be a magical one with special powers. Maybe it can communicate with Harry in Parseltongue and help him find hidden secrets in Hogwarts. For example, it could lead him to a long - forgotten chamber that holds ancient magic spells.
One possible plot could be that Harry discovers a new ability to communicate with snakes on a deeper level. Maybe he uses this to uncover a hidden secret in Hogwarts, like a secret passage that was protected by snake - based magic. The snake could lead him to an ancient artifact or some long - forgotten knowledge.
One possible plot could be that the snake is a key to unlocking an ancient prophecy. Harry discovers the snake and realizes it has markings that match an old legend. He then has to protect the snake from Voldemort who wants to use it for his own evil purposes.
One possible plot could be that the snake is a magical guardian of Hufflepuff house. It's been hidden away for years, but due to some dark magic threat emerging in Hogwarts, it awakens. The Hufflepuff students then have to figure out how to work with the snake to protect their house and the whole school.