One possible plotline could be that Voldemort's attack on the Potter family fails in a different way. Maybe James uses a powerful, unknown spell that deflects Voldemort's killing curse. As a result, Lily and James go into hiding with Harry. They might then start to form an underground resistance against Voldemort, using their knowledge of the Dark Lord's weaknesses. This could lead to a completely different wizarding war, with the Potters at the forefront, and Harry growing up with his parents by his side, learning magic from them directly.
Another plotline could be that a prophecy was misinterpreted. The prophecy about a child born at the end of July who could defeat Voldemort was thought to be about Harry, but it was actually about another child. So Voldemort attacks the wrong family. Lily and James survive and are left to deal with the aftermath. They might become very protective of Harry, and as he grows up, they have to figure out how to deal with the fact that the Dark Lord may still come after them, thinking Harry is the prophesied one.
In some fanfictions, if they survived, they might have changed the whole course of the wizarding war. They could have joined forces with other powerful wizards and witches earlier and potentially prevented Voldemort from gaining as much power as he did in the original story. They might have also influenced the Hogwarts curriculum, emphasizing more on defensive magic against the Dark Arts from an earlier stage.
One possible plotline could be that James and Lily return and have to deal with the changed wizarding world. They might be shocked at how much Voldemort's actions have affected society even after his defeat. Another could be that they return to help Harry face new threats that are emerging from the shadows of the old war.
A plotline could be that the Potter family gets invited to a very exclusive and mysterious magical event. But there are rumors that dark forces are at work there. Harry and Ginny are hesitant, but James is excited, and Albus and Lily are curious. As they attend, they find themselves in the middle of a conspiracy that they have to solve together.
There could also be a plotline where their pregnancy is put in danger. Maybe there are dark forces at work in the wizarding world that target them because of their unborn child. This can create a lot of tension and drama, as they have to fight to protect their family. It can also be a way to explore the darker side of the Harry Potter universe and how Lily and James would handle such threats while being pregnant.
Harry's character development would be significantly different. With his parents alive, he would be exposed to a more stable family environment. His magical education could start earlier and be more comprehensive as he learns from two powerful wizards. This could make him more powerful and less impulsive. Instead of seeking validation from others like he did at Hogwarts in the original story, he would have the unconditional love of his parents, which could shape him into a more well - rounded and less angst - ridden character. For example, he might not have had such a strong urge to prove himself in dangerous situations.
One interesting fanfiction could be about James and Lily's time at Hogwarts before they got together. It might explore how their relationship developed from initial dislike to love. For example, a story could show James maturing from a prank - loving boy to someone worthy of Lily's love.
One common plotline is time - travel. For example, Harry might go back in time and interact with Lily Potter in a way that changes the course of events. Another could be an alternate universe where Lily survives and she and Harry have a different kind of relationship, perhaps more of a mentoring one.
James might impress Lily's parents by showing his intelligence. For example, if they discuss a current event or a historical topic, James could offer well - thought - out opinions and insights. He could also show his caring side towards Lily, like how he always makes sure she's okay when they are out together. This would make her parents think he's a great partner for their daughter.
Well, it could be a very peaceful setting. They might be looking down on Harry and feeling proud of all he has accomplished. Maybe they're reunited with their friends who also passed away. They could be having long conversations about the wizarding world and how it has changed since their time.
One interesting plotline is when Lily is given the chance to change the future. In some fanfictions, she has the power to go back in time and make different choices, like whether to marry James or not. Another is when she discovers hidden magic within herself that no one else knew about. This often leads to her having to face new challenges and enemies.