Perhaps a fanfiction could focus on how the events in the Land of Waves affected the economy and the daily lives of the people there. Naruto could witness the struggles of the villagers and come up with a plan to help them, using his unique perspective as an outsider. This would not only show his growth as a character but also give a different view of the Land of Waves.
Obviously Naruto himself. He is the main character and his growth and development during this arc are crucial. Then there's Zabuza and Haku. Their story of being outcasts and their complex relationship is very interesting to explore further. Tazuna also plays an important role as he is the reason Naruto and his team are in the Land of Waves in the first place.
Well, in fanfiction, it could be a way to explore themes of mortality and the transience of life. Maybe the author wanted to create a tragic story within the setting of the Land of Waves, using Sakura as a character to evoke strong emotions in the readers.
A young girl who is an expert in water - based ninjutsu but was self - taught because she had no proper teacher in the Land of Waves. She could join Naruto's team temporarily and teach them some unique water - related techniques.
Another plot could be a time - travel fanfic where Naruto and his friends are sent back in time to the events that led to the Land of Waves' situation in the first place. They then have to figure out how to change things for the better without changing the future too much.
One possible plot could be that Sakura, in this fanfiction, has to face a powerful and unexpected enemy in the Land of Waves. Maybe she discovers a new jutsu during this first kill situation, which then changes her role within her team. It could also involve her making tough decisions that test her loyalty and values.
To be creative, you can introduce unexpected elements. What if Sakura's death is part of a larger conspiracy? You can create new characters who are behind her death. And then show how the existing characters gradually uncover the truth. You can also use flashbacks of Sakura's time in the Land of Waves, highlighting her relationships and experiences there, which will make her death more poignant and the story more engaging.
It could be about a whole new adventure in the Naruto universe. Maybe it focuses on the unique aspects of the Land of Claws and the Land of Fangs. It might involve new characters native to those lands, or perhaps some sort of conflict that Naruto and his friends have to face there.
Sakura may become more empathetic. Killing someone, even in a fictional context, can make a character understand the value of life more deeply. She might start to see the enemies not just as faceless foes but as people with their own stories. This could lead to her trying to find non - violent solutions in future situations whenever possible.