The complex relationship between them. They were friends once, but so many things tore them apart. Fanfiction allows people to explore what could have been, whether it's a romantic relationship that might have developed under different circumstances or a more stable friendship.
One interesting fanfiction could be where Lily and Severus reconcile in an alternate universe after her death. In this story, Lily's spirit somehow manages to communicate with Severus more directly. It shows a different side of their relationship, exploring the deep-rooted connection they had before everything went wrong.
Well, a lot of fanfictions depict Snape's love for Lily as a silent, internal struggle. He doesn't always show it outwardly, but it's always there, burning inside him. Some stories show how his love for her makes him protect Harry, not because he likes Harry, but because Harry is a part of Lily. This love is also sometimes shown as a complex emotion that is intertwined with his sense of self - worth. He feels unworthy of her love, but still can't let go of his feelings, and this internal conflict is explored in great detail in many fanfictions.
One great fanfic is 'The Prince's Tale Continued'. It delves deeper into Snape's life after the events of the original series. It shows his struggle to come to terms with his past and his role in the wizarding world. Another good one is 'Snape's Redemption'. This fanfic focuses on how Snape tries to make amends for his past actions towards Harry and the others. It gives a more in - depth look at his complex character.
There's a fanfiction called 'A Different Kind of Love'. In this story, it explores the complex relationship between Severus and Lily beyond just friendship or unrequited love. It shows how their relationship could have developed in an alternate universe. 'Lily's Last Wish' is another one. This story focuses on how Snape deals with Lily's death and how he tries to fulfill what he believes might have been her last wishes. Then there's 'Severus and Lily: The Forbidden Bond' which examines the idea of a deeper, more secret bond between them that was never fully explored in the original books.
Often, fanfiction will explore the idea of Lily having a deeper understanding of Snape's actions and motives. This can lead to a relationship where she is more forgiving and empathetic towards him. For instance, in some stories, when Snape is bullied, Lily steps in more actively to defend him, which changes the dynamic of their relationship. In other cases, the relationship might be reimagined in a romantic way that was only hinted at in the original. There could be a scenario where they actually start a relationship during their Hogwarts years, which would completely change the course of their individual lives and how they interact with other characters like James Potter.
One idea could be that in the fanfiction, the collar is a magical device used for protection rather than a form of control. Snape might put it on Harry to shield him from dark magic threats at Hogwarts.
Well, friendship is a big theme. You see, their relationship started as a friendship, and many fanfictions expand on that. They might write about how their different houses in Hogwarts affected their friendship. Also, redemption is a theme. Snape's actions towards the end of the main story can be seen as a form of redemption for his past mistakes, and fanfictions often play with this idea in relation to his relationship with Lily. And of course, the power of love. How Snape's love for Lily influenced his life and actions is always interesting to explore in these fanfictions.
Snape's reaction would be complex. He has so much history with the Potter family. At the start, he might show his usual cold exterior. However, if Albus shows respect and a genuine desire to learn from him, Snape could gradually warm up. He might share some of his potions knowledge and secrets that he never shared with others. He may also tell Albus stories about his mother, Lily, in a roundabout way, to help Albus understand his family's past better and the sacrifices that were made for him to be alive.
A great Severus Snape fanfiction often delves deep into his complex character. It shows his inner turmoil, his love for Lily, and his conflicted relationship with Harry. If it can capture his snarky yet vulnerable side, it's a plus. For example, a story that shows his thoughts and feelings during his time as a double agent during the war is really interesting.