Maybe the past Slytherin has some knowledge or power that Hermione needs. As she approaches the Slytherin for help, she discovers that he or she is not as bad as she thought. Over time, they could become friends. The Slytherin might introduce Hermione to the more positive aspects of Slytherin culture, like their loyalty to their own and their cunning in a non - malicious way.
Their relationship could start with hostility. Hermione, being a Gryffindor, might be initially suspicious of the past Slytherin. But as they get to know each other better, they could develop a grudging respect. For example, if they are forced to work on a project together in the fanfiction, they find that each has unique skills to contribute.
At first, their relationship might be full of tension. Draco is used to the pure - blood ideology of Slytherin and Hermione is a Muggle - born. But as they spend more time together, they start to see each other's good sides. For instance, Draco might notice Hermione's determination and loyalty, which are also Slytherin traits in a way.
If Hermione was in Slytherin, their relationship would be more complex. They would have to overcome the typical Gryffindor - Slytherin rivalry. Harry might initially be more suspicious of Hermione's motives since Slytherins are often seen as more self - serving. However, Hermione's intelligence and loyalty would still shine through, and she would prove to Harry that not all Slytherins are bad. Their friendship would likely be more private as they would face scrutiny from both houses.
The plot could involve a time - travel scenario where Hermione is sent back in time and has to interact with a Slytherin student. At first, they clash due to their house differences. But as they face common challenges, like dealing with a dark wizard threat in that era, they start to understand and respect each other. This experience changes Hermione's view of Slytherins when she returns to her own time.
Hermione may become more cunning. In Slytherin, she has to adapt to the house's traits. So she might start using her intelligence in more devious ways, like setting up elaborate traps for those who try to bully her, but still within the bounds of good. For example, magically rigging a classroom so that when a bully tries to embarrass her, they end up getting a face full of slime.
In these fanfictions, Hermione's character often develops a more nuanced view of the wizarding world. She no longer sees things in the simple black - and - white way of Gryffindor vs Slytherin. She realizes that Slytherin has its own merits. So she becomes more open - minded and less judgmental. She also might develop a more complex social network, befriending Slytherins who have different outlooks from her old Gryffindor friends.
It could be Draco Malfoy. Despite his past animosity towards Hermione, in the fanfiction, he might have a change of heart. Maybe he realizes that the old pure - blood ideas are wrong and decides to use his Slytherin cunning to protect her. Another character could be Blaise Zabini. He's often portrayed as a bit of an enigma in the original books, and in this fanfiction, he could see Hermione's value and take it upon himself to keep her safe.
Hermione would likely become more cunning. She already has a sharp mind, but in Slytherin, she might learn to use her intelligence in more devious ways to achieve her goals. Harry would probably develop a thicker skin. He'd have to deal with a lot of negative attitudes in Slytherin, which would force him to be more resilient.
Harry's character could develop a more calculating side. He might become more aware of the political undercurrents in the wizarding world. Hermione would likely become more assertive in a different way. She would have to be tough to survive in Slytherin as a muggle - born. Her knowledge would be both a weapon and a target.
If in Slytherin in fanfiction, Harry's character could become more shrewd. He'd have to learn to use his natural instincts in a more Slytherin - like way. His sense of right and wrong would still be there, but he might be more calculating in how he approaches situations. Hermione would likely become more aware of the power dynamics within a group. She'd have to use her intelligence not just for academic purposes but also to survive in the often cut - throat Slytherin environment. Her loyalty might be tested in different ways as she has to balance her own values with the house's values.
Hermione's character development could involve her learning to balance her traditional values with the new ones in Slytherin. She might start to value self - preservation more, as it is a trait often associated with Slytherin. This could make her a more well - rounded witch, not just relying on her Gryffindor - like courage all the time. Draco, on the other hand, could become more empathetic. Seeing Hermione face the challenges of being in Slytherin as an outsider could make him realize how wrong some of his previous actions were, and he could grow to be more inclusive.