A common characteristic is the exploration of their relationship. It could be a friendship that blossoms into something more, or just a really strong platonic bond. In many fanfics, they are shown to be there for each other in times of need, like when Sakura heals Lee after a battle, and Lee protects Sakura from danger.
For a Rock Lee and Sakura fanfic to be good, it needs to have a unique concept. Maybe it's a story set in an alternate universe where Rock Lee is a famous chef and Sakura is a food critic. Their initial interactions are prickly but as they get to know each other better, they start to fall in love. The fanfic should also have good pacing, not too rushed or too slow. It should build up their relationship gradually, showing how they overcome obstacles, whether it's misunderstandings or external threats.
A good 'Rock Lee and Sakura' fanfic can be interesting because it can show different aspects of their growth. Maybe Lee helps Sakura with her physical combat skills in a way no one else has, or Sakura teaches Lee something about the medical ninja arts. Their relationship has so much potential for development, and when a fanfic taps into that, it can be really fascinating. It can also add more depth to the Naruto universe by showing how different characters can interact and influence each other in new ways.
A common theme is friendship. They are both part of the ninja community and their friendship often develops through training and missions. Another theme is admiration. Rock Lee often admires Sakura's strength and kindness. And Sakura may admire Lee's determination. Also, growth is a theme. They both grow as ninjas and as individuals, and their relationship can be a factor in that growth.
In a Rock Lee and Sakura fanfic, there could be a plot where Sakura is in danger and Rock Lee is the first to come to her rescue. He saves her from the clutches of a powerful enemy. This heroic act makes Sakura look at Rock Lee with admiration. As time passes, Rock Lee starts to court Sakura in his own unique, clumsy yet endearing way. He gives her small gifts like hand - carved wooden animals that he made himself, and Sakura begins to appreciate his simple and sincere nature.
There is also 'Lee and Sakura: A New Beginning'. This fanfic delves into an alternate universe where Lee and Sakura meet under different circumstances. It's really interesting as it shows a different side of their relationship. They start off as rivals but gradually develop a deep respect for one another as they train together.
FanFiction.net is a great place to start. It has a large community of writers and readers. Just use the search bar and type in 'lee x sakura fanfic'. Also, AO3 is another option. It has a more organized tagging system, so you can easily filter and find the 'lee x sakura' fanfics you're interested in. There are also some smaller, more niche fanfic communities dedicated to the same series that might have some good 'lee x sakura' stories.
There are quite a few. 'A New Perspective on Sakura and Lee' is a fanfic that gives a fresh take on their relationship. It shows how they both have different sides that they gradually show to each other. For example, Sakura's more vulnerable side and Rock Lee's humorous side. Another one is 'The Path of Sakura and Lee' which follows their individual growth paths while also highlighting the moments where their paths cross and they influence each other.
One popular 'lee x sakura fanfic' might be 'The Blooming Bond'. It beautifully portrays their relationship development. Another could be 'Lee and Sakura's Adventure' which takes them on an exciting journey together. And 'Lee's Promise to Sakura' shows a deep emotional connection between them.
A possible plot idea is that Sakura discovers a hidden side of Rock Lee. Maybe she stumbles upon his love for painting or some other artistic hobby that he has kept secret because he thought it might seem un - ninja - like. This could lead to a deeper understanding between them and a new level of friendship. Or perhaps there's a plot where Rock Lee gets injured severely, and Sakura has to use all her medical knowledge to save him. During his recovery, they have long conversations that make them realize how much they have in common and respect each other more.