Their friendship could start with a simple exchange. Maybe Sai tries to draw Sasuke and Sasuke is initially annoyed. But then Sai shows him the drawing and Sasuke sees a different side of himself in it. This small moment could be the start of them getting to know each other better. For example, Sasuke might start to ask Sai about his art and Sai would be happy to share, gradually breaking the ice between them.
It could develop through training sessions. Sai is always looking to improve his skills and Sasuke is constantly striving for more power. If they train together, they would learn about each other's fighting styles and limits. As they push each other during training, they would start to respect each other. Sasuke might admire Sai's determination and Sai would respect Sasuke's raw power. This mutual respect could then turn into a real friendship over time.
A common theme is the exploration of their different personalities. Sasuke is often brooding and focused on his own goals, while Sai is more of an enigma at first. Fanfics may focus on how they come to understand each other better.
Often, it develops through shared hardships. For example, they might be captured by a powerful enemy and have to escape together. During this time, they learn to trust each other more deeply.
Their relationship could develop in a very deep and emotional way. They might start having heart - to - heart conversations. Naruto, who usually keeps his feelings bottled up, might open up to Sai. Sai, in turn, will use his unique understanding of emotions (even if it was initially artificial but has now become real) to comfort Naruto. This will strengthen their bond, making Naruto even more attached to Sai and further ignoring the others.
It could start with a chance encounter. For example, at a festival in Konoha. Hinata is there with her friends and Sasuke is just passing by. Their eyes meet briefly, and there's a spark of something new. Later, they are paired up for a training exercise. Hinata's unique fighting style impresses Sasuke, and he gives her some tips. Hinata is shy but also grateful. Over time, they start to communicate more, sharing their thoughts about the future of the village, and from there, their relationship blossoms.
The relationship could develop through mutual respect. Female Sai might be impressed by Naruto's determination to protect the village and his friends. Naruto, on the other hand, could be intrigued by Sai's different way of thinking. They could start to exchange ideas about ninjutsu and life in general. As they do this more often, they realize they have a deeper connection than just being comrades, and feelings start to grow.
One plot idea could be Sasuke and Sai being forced to team up on a mission. Sai, with his unique artistic abilities and Sasuke with his powerful jutsu. They start off not getting along as Sasuke is still brooding and Sai doesn't quite understand his ways. But as the mission progresses, they learn to trust each other. For example, Sai could use his ink techniques to create diversions while Sasuke attacks the real enemies from the shadows. This would show their growth as characters and how they can work together despite their differences.
One great place to start looking for Naruto Shippuden Sasuke and Sai fanfic is Fanfiction.net. There are tons of stories there that focus on their relationship, from team - up adventures to exploring their individual growth within the context of the Naruto Shippuden world.
Another reason is that fanfiction gives fans the freedom to shape the relationship between Sasuke and Sai as they like. Some might want to write about a romantic relationship between them, while others might focus on a more brotherly or rival - like bond. This creative freedom attracts a lot of fans who want to put their own spin on these beloved characters from Naruto Shippuden.
In most of these fanfics, the friendship develops through Naruto's persistence. He refuses to let Sasuke go, whether it's physically or emotionally. For example, in some stories, Naruto follows Sasuke on his travels, constantly trying to talk to him and remind him of their bond. Also, shared experiences play a big role. When they face a common enemy or a difficult situation together, it makes them rely on each other more and thus strengthens their friendship.
Their relationship might start out rocky. Kakashi is a cautious person, and Hanare's background could make him suspicious. But as they spend time together, they could start to see the good in each other. For example, if they are on a mission, Hanare's quick thinking could impress Kakashi, and his combat skills could earn her respect.