Typically, Naruto himself is often a main character in these fanfictions. His determination and unique abilities make him a natural fit for a retrieval team. Sasuke can also be a main character, especially when it comes to his combat skills and strategic thinking.
One interesting story could be about the team facing unexpected challenges during a retrieval mission. For example, they might encounter a new and powerful enemy that has unique jutsu. Another could involve a member of the retrieval team having to make a difficult moral choice that affects the whole mission.
The relationship between Naruto and Sasuke is complex. In this retrieval fanfiction, their past memories together could play a big role. Flashbacks of their time at the ninja academy, their first missions, and the bond they formed could be used to heighten the drama of Naruto's quest to bring Sasuke back.
In some fanfictions, Naruto may become more mature. After going through the arduous process of retrieving Sasuke, he realizes the complexity of relationships and the importance of his comrades more deeply. He might also become more reserved in his emotions, as the experience has made him more aware of the consequences of his actions and words.
Friendship is a very common theme. Naruto's strong bond with Sasuke is at the heart of the retrieval arc in the original story, and fanfictions often explore this further. They show how Naruto's love for his friend drives him to go to great lengths to bring Sasuke back.
Naruto may turn more cautious. The Sasuke retrieval was a dangerous and complex situation. In fanfiction, it could make him think twice before jumping into action. He may analyze situations more carefully to avoid potential disasters. For instance, he won't be as quick to engage in a fight without considering all the possible outcomes. This is a big change from his usually head - first approach. He may also become more protective. Having almost lost Sasuke, he could be overprotective of his friends and the village, constantly on guard to prevent any harm from coming to them.
Well, Naruto would probably face a lot of tough opponents. Since Sasuke has his own goals and might be with some powerful people, Naruto would have to fight his way through. He might encounter new jutsus and strategies that he has to overcome.
In this type of fanfiction, Naruto could be banished to a far - off land. Maybe he discovers a new form of chakra or ninja technique there. He could also form a new community with outcasts like himself. As for the village, Sasuke might feel guilty about Naruto's banishment and try to convince the village elders to reverse their decision. But the political situation in the village could be complex, with some factions seeing Naruto as a threat even after he retrieved Sasuke.
It could be some of the village elders. They were the ones who decided to banish Naruto, so they could continue to oppose him even when he's in exile. They might see his growing power and influence as a threat to their traditional ways of running the village.
One great 'Naruto Sasuke Retrieval Arc' fanfiction is 'The Bonds Beyond Retrieval'. It delves deeper into the emotional turmoil of Naruto during this arc. The author does an amazing job of portraying Naruto's unwavering determination to bring Sasuke back.