If Naruto and Kushina aren't related in fanfiction, their relationship could become more complex. Maybe they meet as strangers at first. Kushina could be a powerful figure that Naruto looks up to. They could form a bond based on mutual respect for each other's skills and abilities. It might also lead to a more platonic relationship where they support each other in battles and in the ninja world without the pre - set family - like connection.
In this type of fanfiction, their relationship would be a complete departure from the canon. Instead of the mother - son relationship, they could be comrades. Kushina could be a rival to Naruto in some aspects, like competing for the same mission or trying to outdo each other in terms of ninja achievements. This would create a whole new set of storylines and character developments for both of them. For example, they might start off not liking each other much but gradually grow to respect and rely on one another as they face common enemies and challenges in the fanfiction world.
Well, it could make their relationship more of a friendship or a mentor - mentee kind of thing. Without the family bond, they might interact in a different way, like Naruto seeing Kushina as just another strong ninja he can learn from rather than his mother.
Well, it might make Naruto more withdrawn from characters who are close to Kushina. For example, if Minato is still alive in the fanfiction, Naruto's fear of Kushina could cause him to be less open with his father as well, since Minato was Kushina's husband. He might be worried that any information he shares with Minato could get back to Kushina.
Another possibility is that they are mentor - mentee in a non - family way. Kushina could be a self - appointed teacher to Naruto, guiding him in areas where he is lacking. For instance, she could teach him some unique sealing techniques that she has mastered, and their relationship could be built on this teacher - student dynamic.
Well, it could change things a great deal. For one, Naruto's appearance being like Kushina might make her more of a target in the beginning as those who had issues with Kushina in the past could potentially target her. Also, characters like Minato might be more protective from the start. It could also lead to different reactions from the villagers. Instead of the initial hatred towards Naruto because of the Nine - Tails, they might be more conflicted seeing a resemblance to Kushina, a former villager.
It changes the dynamics a great deal. Instead of the typical unrequited love from Naruto towards Sakura in the original, it flips the script. This makes their interactions less about Naruto pining for Sakura and more about a platonic friendship. They might interact more casually and without the underlying tension of unspoken love.
Perhaps Kushina is a powerful ninja from another village who comes to Konoha on a diplomatic mission. Naruto, being curious and always looking for new challenges, gets involved with her. They end up on a journey together to solve a mystery that threatens both of their villages. Or, Kushina could be a trainer in a secret ninja academy where Naruto is sent for special training and they form a bond over his training progress.
It would likely be very strained. Naruto would probably avoid Kushina as much as possible. He might not even look at her when they're in the same room.
They could become more like colleagues or just friends from the past. There's no longer the romantic tension between them. Sakura might have to come to terms with the fact that Naruto's feelings have changed and try to move on as well. Naruto, on the other hand, may focus more on his other relationships, like with his new friends or teammates.
Well, if Naruto is older than Itachi in the fanfiction, it could lead to a role - reversal of sorts. Naruto might take on a more protective or mentoring role towards Itachi. He could use his experience and power, which he has gained over more years, to guide Itachi in a different way compared to the original storyline.
It could change Naruto's relationship with Sakura. Since Naruto now notices Hinata, he might not be as blindly in love with Sakura as before. Sakura might feel a bit strange about this at first, but then she could be happy for Naruto. With his friends like Shikamaru, they might tease Naruto about finally seeing Hinata, but also support his new relationship if it develops.
Another way could be as rivals. Suppose Naruto is from a different village in this fanfiction. He and Kushina might compete in various ninja skills competitions, which leads to a complex relationship full of both admiration and competitiveness.