Slash fanfiction involving Harry Potter and Severus Snape in a 'dark' context often explores alternative relationships. These stories might re - imagine their interactions in a more complex or morally ambiguous way. Writers might be intrigued by the contrast between Harry's 'light' side and Snape's 'dark' and brooding nature, creating unique storylines that deviate from the original series.
One good example could be those that explore Harry's darker side in his interactions with Snape. For instance, a fanfic where Harry, influenced by dark magic, challenges Snape's authority in a more menacing way. Another is a story where Harry discovers some dark secrets about Snape and uses that knowledge to manipulate situations in Hogwarts. There are also fanfictions that show a more complex relationship between them, with Harry having a darker personality due to the traumas he has faced, and Snape being caught in the middle of Harry's internal struggle.
In these fanfictions, Harry is often made more cynical and power - hungry. His usual heroic traits are overshadowed by his darker desires. Snape, on the other hand, might be shown as more sympathetic towards Harry's new state. His strict and often cold exterior could crack as he tries to help Harry. For example, if Harry starts to dabble in dark magic, Snape may find himself torn between his duty to Hogwarts and his growing concern for Harry.
One aspect that makes it unique is the exploration of the power dynamics. Harry has power as the 'Chosen One' and Snape has his own kind of power and knowledge. In the 'dark' fanfiction, these powers can be pitted against each other or combined in unexpected ways. Also, the way their personalities clash and maybe even merge in these stories is different from the normal fanfiction. It delves deeper into their psyches and the unspoken tensions between them.
In some fanfictions, Snape might use his advanced knowledge of potions to create a special concoction to heal Harry. He could draw on his skills in Herbology as well to find rare ingredients for the potion.
One more to consider is 'Snape: Beyond the Surface'. In this story, the author explores Snape's relationships with other characters like Dumbledore and McGonagall. It shows how his interactions with them were not always as straightforward as they seemed in the original books and adds more depth to his character.
One great Snape fanfiction is 'The Prince's Tale Redux'. It delves deeper into Snape's relationship with Lily. It shows his internal struggles and how his love for her influenced his actions throughout the series. It gives a more in - depth look at his character than what was shown in the original books.
In some fanfictions, Snape is indeed portrayed as Harry Potter's father. Fanfiction allows for creative reinterpretations of the original story, and this is one such interesting deviation from the canon where Snape's complex relationship with Harry takes on a whole new dimension.
One possible motive could be a misunderstanding. Maybe Snape is framed for something really bad, like a dark magic plot against Hogwarts. Harry, in his haste to protect the school and his friends, believes Snape is guilty and takes drastic action. Another reason could be if Snape accidentally endangers someone Harry loves dearly, like Ginny or Ron, and Harry's emotions get the better of him in the heat of the moment.
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.