His growth in his ninja skills can also be a part of it. If he faces tough opponents while saving Ayame, he might develop new techniques or improve his existing ones. He could learn to better control his chakra flow during the rescue mission, which reflects his development as a ninja.
Naruto's character development could be shown through his increased sense of responsibility. In saving Ayame, he realizes that he has to protect not only his friends but also the people in the village who are important to his friends. For example, Ayame is Teuchi's daughter, and by saving her, Naruto shows that he values the relationships of those close to him more deeply.
His character development could be shown through his decision to save Kin and Tayuya. At first, Naruto might be hesitant as they were once enemies. But his growth in understanding that everyone can change makes him act. He becomes more empathetic and less judgmental, which is a big step in his character development.
His character might develop in terms of his understanding of family. Since Hinata's mom is part of a traditional and complex family like the Hyuga clan, Naruto would have to navigate through their customs and politics to save her. This could make him more empathetic towards family values and the importance of lineage, which is different from his own upbringing as an orphan.
Naruto's character development could be shown through his increased sense of responsibility. He is no longer just thinking about himself or his goal to become Hokage. Saving Hinata from Orochimaru makes him realize the importance of protecting those he cares about, which is a big step in his growth as a ninja and a person.
To write good character development for Ayame, start with her known traits like her kindness as a ramen shop owner. Expand on that by showing how she uses her kindness to help not just Naruto but other villagers in difficult situations. For example, she could offer shelter to orphans during a harsh winter.
Naruto could correct a mistake by facing his own fears. Let's say he had run away from a certain danger in the past due to fear. In the fanfiction, he could deliberately put himself in a similar situation, but this time, stand his ground. His internal monologue could show how he overcame the fear that made him make the mistake in the first place. This would not only correct the mistake but also strengthen his character.
His character development could be evident in his ability to empathize. Naruto has always been about protecting his friends, but in this case, he really tries to understand Tenten's fear and Gai's possible motives. He doesn't just use brute force. He might talk to Tenten, reassuring her, and then approach Gai with a more diplomatic stance at first. This shows that he has developed his emotional intelligence over time in the Naruto world.
The character development can be shown through the apprentice's progress in taijutsu. At first, he might struggle with basic moves, but as he trains with Gai, he becomes more proficient. For example, his kicks become faster and more powerful. Another way is his attitude towards challenges. Initially, he might be hesitant, but over time, he starts to embrace difficulties like Gai does.
Well, Naruto could learn more about empathy. By being in Inari's form, he experiences life from Inari's perspective. This might make him more sensitive to the feelings of others who are not as confident or strong as he is.
The character can show development through their attitude towards their new life. At first, they might be confused or even resentful of being reborn as Naruto. But as time goes on, they start to embrace the world and its values. For example, they could learn to value the concept of ninja way more deeply.
Naruto could start the fanfic being a bit overconfident. But as the fight progresses against Neji, he realizes that brute force alone won't win. This makes him think more about his strategy, showing his growth in combat intelligence. For example, he might start using his Rasengan in combination with his shadow clones in a more creative way.