To develop Sakura in such a fanfiction, you can focus on her emotional growth. For instance, if she has a difficult beginning like being an orphan or facing discrimination, show how she overcomes these emotional hurdles. You can also develop her skills differently. If she starts training in a non - traditional way, like learning from a self - taught ninja, she might develop unorthodox fighting styles. This would not only make her more interesting as a character but also change how others in the Naruto universe perceive her.
Sakura can be developed by showing her internal struggle. For instance, if she's under mind control, she could have flashes of her true self trying to break through. This would show her strong will. Another way is through her relationships. If she's made to harm her friends while mind - controlled, her guilt and attempts to make amends later can add depth to her character.
One way is through enhanced combat skills. In some fanfictions, Sakura is already a proficient fighter at the start, able to take on opponents that she might not have been able to in the original series. For example, she could be shown as being able to defeat stronger ninja without much effort.
One idea could be that Sakura starts her ninja training much earlier, perhaps as a toddler due to some special family circumstances. This early start could give her a different set of skills and a more confident personality from the get - go. Another idea is that she begins her journey in a different village, like the Hidden Cloud Village. There, she might learn different jutsu and have different relationships with the local ninja. Maybe she meets a mentor who specializes in a unique form of medical ninjutsu that's not common in Konoha, which could set her on a completely different path in terms of her abilities and how she's perceived in the ninja world.
Sakura could develop her character by becoming more empathetic towards all living things. Since Mother Nature represents all life, she starts to see the value in every little creature. For instance, she might stop and listen to the stories of the old trees in the forest instead of just passing by. This newfound empathy could also make her a better ninja as she understands the importance of protecting life in all forms.
Sakura might become more independent. In her original team, she had certain roles and relationships that defined her. In a different team, she'd have to rely on herself more. For example, she might not have the same kind of support she had from her old teammates. This would force her to make decisions on her own and grow as a ninja.
For Sakura, her determination can be further explored. For example, when faced with a difficult decision regarding Neji, like whether to sacrifice her own safety for his in a dangerous situation. This would show her selfless side. Neji's growth could be shown by his ability to open up more. He could start to share his thoughts and feelings with Sakura, which is a big step for someone as reserved as him.
Sakura could develop by becoming more independent. In an Akatsuki - centered fanfiction, she'd be out of her comfort zone in Konoha. So, she'd have to rely on her own skills and judgment more. For example, she might learn new jutsu or combat techniques from the Akatsuki members she's with.
Sakura might meet the founders of the village. For example, she could meet Hashirama Senju. He was a powerful and visionary leader. Meeting him could give Sakura insights into the true origins of the village and how to better protect it. She could also learn some of the ancient ninja techniques from him.
You can start by exploring different settings. Maybe Sakura lives in a world where ninjas and modern technology coexist. How would she adapt? What if she was in a world where chakra didn't exist but she still had her medical knowledge? This can give you a fresh perspective to start your fanfiction. Also, consider her relationships. If she had a different best friend or love interest, how would that change her character development? You can build your story around these new relationships and the interactions they bring.
She is often given enhanced combat skills. For example, she might be shown as being able to take on powerful opponents single - handedly. Her punches could be made even more powerful than in the original, and she could have new moves that are a combination of her medical and combat knowledge.