One way is to have them face a common enemy. Maybe there's a rogue ninja who is targeting medical - ninjas in Konoha. Sakura and Tsunade have to team up to protect themselves and the other medical - ninjas. During this time, they get to know each other better. Tsunade might see Sakura's courage and determination, and Sakura would see Tsunade's experience and wisdom in combat situations. Also, they could have heart - to - heart conversations during lulls in the battle or while preparing for the enemy's next attack.
Their relationship can be developed through shared experiences in the medical field. For example, they could work together on a difficult medical case that requires both of their skills. This would force them to communicate, trust each other, and learn from one another.
They could start training together more often. Since Tsunade is a great medical ninja and has a lot of combat experience, she could teach Sakura some advanced medical and combat techniques. This shared learning experience would strengthen their bond.
Perhaps a shared experience like fighting a common enemy could bring them closer. If they are in a battle together and Naruto saves Tsunade's life, or vice versa, it could be the start of a deeper emotional connection. Tsunade might then open up about her family to Naruto, and Naruto could share his own feelings about family, as he has always longed for one.
For Naruto, he could develop by learning more about leadership from Tsunade. He already has his own unique style, but Tsunade's wisdom in leading the village could give him new insights. Sakura could develop her medical ninjutsu further under Tsunade's guidance and also become more confident in her combat abilities. Tsunade herself could develop by seeing the new generation, Naruto and Sakura, grow and be inspired to take on new challenges for the village.
The relationship can start with a moment of vulnerability. For example, if Sakura is in a dangerous situation and Sasuke comes to her rescue. His licking of her (in a non - sexual, affectionate way like licking a wound) can be the first sign of his deeper care for her. This could lead to Sakura realizing that Sasuke's feelings for her have changed, and she starts to open up more to him.
The relationship could start with Sasuke being secretly jealous of Sakura's closeness to someone else. He might not show it at first, but little actions would give it away. For instance, he might glare at the other person when they are around Sakura. Sakura, being perceptive, could start to suspect something. This would create an interesting dynamic as she tries to figure out what's wrong with Sasuke.
Naruto could be developed by having him face moral dilemmas that Tsunade has already experienced. Tsunade can guide him through these, and in the process, Naruto becomes more mature and worldly. Tsunade's character can be developed by Naruto challenging her traditional ways. For example, Naruto might suggest a new approach to handling village finances or medical training, which forces Tsunade to adapt and grow. This interaction would make both characters more three - dimensional in the fanfic.
Another approach could be a story where they are stranded on an island together. They have to rely on each other for survival, which would force them to communicate on a deeper level. They could discover new things about each other, like Tsunade's hidden insecurities or Sakura's childhood dreams that she has never shared with anyone.
In a college - set fanfic, their relationship could develop through study groups. For example, if they are both in a difficult class like advanced calculus. They start off as just classmates in the study group, but as they spend more time together, they notice each other's strengths and weaknesses. Sasuke might admire Sakura's patience when explaining concepts to others, and Sakura could be drawn to Sasuke's determination to master the subject. This mutual respect could turn into something more romantic over time.
It can start with mutual respect. Naruto respects Tsunade as the Hokage and for her great strength. Tsunade, in turn, can see Naruto's potential. For example, Tsunade could start mentoring Naruto more closely, like sharing her experiences during the wars which Naruto hasn't been through yet. This would create a bond between them.
Another way to develop their relationship is through a common goal. Let's say there is a new threat to the village that requires both their skills. Tsunade's medical expertise and Naruto's combat abilities are both needed. As they work together towards this goal, they learn to trust each other more, share their techniques, and their relationship evolves from acquaintances to comrades and then to close friends.