Well, it could be that the snake has some magical powers that Harry discovers. Maybe the snake can talk and leads Harry to a hidden place in Hogwarts where there are ancient spells or treasures.
There could be a group of magical creatures who see the snake as an abomination or a threat to their kind. They would try to destroy the snake and Harry would have to protect it. These creatures could be from a part of the Forbidden Forest that has not been explored much in the original books and they have their own set of rules and magic which makes them a formidable antagonist.
The snake could be an injured or lost magical creature. Harry, being the kind - hearted person he is, decides to take care of it. As he does, he realizes that the snake has a connection to a powerful wizard or witch who has been lost for ages. This connection then draws Harry into an adventure to find out what really happened to that powerful figure and how it affects the present state of the wizarding world.
It could be a dark wizard who also has an interest in the snake. Maybe he wants to use the snake's powers for evil purposes, like opening a portal to a dark dimension or controlling other magical creatures. So he becomes the main obstacle for Harry as he tries to protect the snake.
There could be many interesting fanfictions involving Harry Potter and a snake. Maybe the snake is a magical creature with special powers that helps Harry in his adventures. For example, it could lead him to hidden secrets or protect him from dark wizards.
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.
In this kind of fanfiction scenario, Snape might initially be conflicted. On one hand, he has his long - standing dislike for James Potter, Harry's father. But on the other, his sense of duty as a Hogwarts professor could kick in. He might reluctantly start to heal Harry, all the while muttering under his breath about how much trouble Harry always seems to get into, just like his father. Then, as he heals Harry, he might start to see some of Lily, Harry's mother, in him and soften a bit.
Well, Harry has a lot of friends who could help him. Hermione might research the best ways to take care of the snake and give Harry advice. Ron could help with some of the more physical tasks like moving the snake's enclosure if needed. Harry would also use his own intuition and the knowledge he has gained from his time at Hogwarts to ensure the snake is well - cared for. He would spend time with the snake, getting to know its habits and needs, and use magic to meet those needs.