Their relationship could be portrayed as a mentor - mentee relationship in a different way. Instead of Orochimaru trying to use Naruto for his own gain, he could genuinely see Naruto's potential and guide him in the ways of some of the more esoteric jutsu. For example, Orochimaru could teach Naruto about the secrets of the snake contract without any ulterior motives. Another way is to show them as reluctant allies. Maybe there's a common enemy that is so powerful that they have no choice but to work together, and over time, they start to respect each other's abilities.
One way to portray their relationship differently is to make Orochimaru a sort of father figure to Naruto. Since Naruto has always longed for a family, Orochimaru could fill that role in a very different and unexpected way. He could teach Naruto not only about jutsu but also about the history of the ninja world from his own perspective. Another way is to have them as competitors in a non - violent way. They could compete in things like knowledge of ancient ninja arts or in solving complex ninja - related problems. This would create a dynamic where they are constantly trying to outdo each other but also respecting each other's skills.
In some fanfictions, the Naruto - Sakura relationship is portrayed as a slow - burn romance. Naruto's continuous efforts to protect Sakura gradually make her fall for him. In contrast, in the original series, Sakura was mainly focused on Sasuke. Fanfiction gives an opportunity to change that narrative.
Their relationship can be portrayed as more of a mentor - mentee relationship. Naruto, having learned from many great shinobi, could pass on his knowledge to male Haku. This would be different from the original as it flips the dynamic a bit.
The relationship could be portrayed as a more harmonious unity. Instead of two separate individuals with different dynamics, the fusion could represent a perfect blend of their relationship. They could be shown as having a single, unified goal in the story, which is a departure from their individual goals in the original Naruto series. This could be something like protecting the entire ninja world in a more inclusive and efficient way, using their combined strengths and insights.
In terms of relationships, fem Naruto could have a more complex relationship with Sasuke. Maybe she doesn't have the same kind of one - sided crush as Naruto did in the original. Instead, they could start as rivals but slowly develop a mutual respect and understanding that is based on their shared experiences and growth as ninjas.
Nagato, in fanfiction, can be depicted in various ways. Some may show him as a more conflicted character. He has his own beliefs which were shaped by his experiences, like the death of his friends and the destruction he witnessed. He may be more hesitant to change compared to Naruto, but also has the potential for redemption which makes his character interesting.
Their relationship could be portrayed as a mentor - mentee relationship. Catwoman, with her years of experience, could be teaching Batman Beyond some of the more subtle aspects of crime - fighting, like how to read a criminal's motives just by observing their body language. Another way is to show them as rivals in a different sense. Instead of just fighting over loot, they could be competing to solve a mystery first. Or, they could be portrayed as reluctant allies. They don't trust each other completely, but they know that they need to work together to stop a greater evil.
Their relationship could be portrayed as more of a brotherly bond. Goku could be like an older brother to Gohan, showing him the ropes of being a Saiyan and having fun adventures together.
Another way is to show a relationship full of regret. Anakin could be filled with remorse for how he treated Ahsoka in the past, but his dark side self still has the urge to do harm. Ahsoka, on the other hand, is conflicted between her love for the old Anakin and her need to oppose the current, dark Anakin.
Rather than enemies, they could be shown as reluctant friends. They might start to communicate more and find that they have common interests. For example, they could both be interested in stopping a new evil force that has emerged in their town. This would force them to work together and over time, their relationship would change from one of hatred to one of mutual respect.
Often, fanfiction will show a more emotional and in - depth bond. Minato might be a constant presence in Naruto's mind, guiding him through tough decisions. This is different from the original where Naruto only gradually learned about his father. Here, their bond is more like an ever - present support system for Naruto.