Another plotline could be that they are all given a mysterious task by an ancient magic entity. To complete this task, they must put aside their differences. Snape and Lucius, who have a history of being on the same side but also having their own rivalries, have to work with Harry, whom they have long seen as an adversary. Draco, caught in the middle, has to choose between his family's old ways and this new alliance, which creates a lot of internal conflict and an engaging story.
In some fanfictions, there is a plot where a dark magic curse has been placed on the wizarding world that only they can break. The curse affects their magic in different ways. Harry's magic becomes unstable, Snape's occlumency is disrupted, Lucius loses some of his family's wealth - based magic advantages, and Draco's pure - blood magic is weakened. They must combine their skills and knowledge, including Snape's potions expertise and Lucius's knowledge of dark artifacts, to find a cure and in the process, form a strong bond.
One interesting fanfiction could be 'The Unlikely Bonds'. In this story, it explores how their relationships develop in a way that defies the typical animosity shown in the original series. It shows Harry, Snape, Lucius and Draco coming together due to a common threat to the wizarding world. They start to understand each other's motives and gradually form a sort of alliance, which eventually turns into an unexpected friendship.
One unique plotline is when Snape has to train both Draco and Harry in a special form of magic that was lost for centuries. This brings out a whole new side of their relationships as they have to rely on each other to master the magic. It's different from the usual Hogwarts drama we see in the books.
Some fanfics have a plotline where Draco becomes a double agent, and Snape has to protect him while also dealing with Harry's suspicions. It creates a really tense and interesting dynamic between the three.
One idea could be a story where they are forced to work together on a dangerous mission for the wizarding world. They start off distrusting each other but gradually come to respect one another as mates. Harry's courage, Snape's cunning, and Lucius's ambition could combine in interesting ways to overcome the challenges.
One unique plotline is when Harry and Draco are magically bound to protect each other's families. It forces them to work together and Hermione is the mediator. They have to overcome their past enmity for the sake of their loved ones.
A great non - adult storyline might be about Snape mentoring Draco in a different way. Instead of just following the dark path his father wants, Snape could guide Draco to explore his own identity and skills in potions or other magical areas. This could also involve some interactions with Harry as they all navigate Hogwarts life. For example, they might all be involved in a magical competition where they have to work together despite their differences. This would show their growth and how they can overcome their initial animosities. And it could also explore Snape's complex character as he tries to balance his role as a mentor and his own secrets.
One great 'Harry and Snape mates' fanfiction is 'The Unlikely Bond'. It shows how they gradually overcome their differences and form a deep friendship. Another is 'A New Understanding' which delves into their shared experiences that lead to their friendship. And 'The Bond Beyond House Rivalry' is also interesting as it explores how they work together despite being from different Hogwarts houses.
In some fanfictions, their plotlines might involve them working against a common enemy within the wizarding world that is not Voldemort. For example, they could be trying to expose a corrupt Ministry official who is trying to undermine the Slytherin house or all pure - blood families. They might also have a plotline where they are forced to trust each other after being framed for a crime they didn't commit and have to work together to clear their names.
There are multiple reasons. First, it's the redemption aspect. Snape has done some not - so - great things in the original story, and seeing him form a positive relationship with Harry is like a form of redemption. Second, it's the exploration of the power of forgiveness. Harry has every reason to dislike Snape, but in these fanfictions, he chooses to forgive and be friends. This sends a positive message. Also, it's the unique chemistry that can be created between these two very different characters, which can lead to engaging and unexpected story developments.
Harry is always a great focus as he is the central character in the original series. His growth and development, especially in relation to the other characters, can make for a great fanfiction. Draco also offers a lot of potential. His struggle between his family's dark past and his own possible redemption can be explored deeply.