Maybe in a story where Iruka adopts Naruto to protect him from various external threats and help him grow stronger in a more nurturing environment. This could lead to many interesting character developments and plot twists.
One possible plot could be that Kakashi and Iruka notice Naruto's loneliness more acutely than in the original story. They decide to formally adopt him. Kakashi might train Naruto more intensively in his own unique ways, while Iruka helps Naruto with his schoolwork and emotional growth. Naruto would then grow up with a stronger support system and become even more confident and powerful at a faster rate.
It also improves Naruto's skills a great deal. He becomes better at combat and using his ninja techniques. For example, his Rasengan might be more powerful or more easily controllable after Iruka's training. Moreover, Naruto's confidence grows under Iruka's guidance. He no longer doubts himself as much and is more willing to take on challenges.
Naruto would be more confident. With Kakashi as a mentor in a more family - like way and Iruka as a parental figure, he would have more self - assurance. He wouldn't have to constantly seek validation through pranks and being overly loud. His ninja skills would also develop faster as he has Kakashi's direct guidance.
It could be that he believes fanfiction sometimes goes against the intended spirit of Naruto. Fanfiction might include elements that he doesn't approve of, like changing the characters' personalities in a way that he thinks is wrong. For example, if a fanfiction makes Naruto overly mean or out of character, Iruka, who has a deep understanding of Naruto's true nature, would dislike it.
Well, in the fanfiction, Iruka may be protective by constantly checking on Naruto's well - being. He could ensure Naruto has enough to eat, is getting proper training, and is not being bullied by other villagers. He might also be protective in the sense that he gives Naruto extra attention and guidance in his ninja training, more so than he would for other students.
Physically, Iruka takes care of Naruto's symptoms. If Naruto has a cough, Iruka might make him herbal tea to soothe his throat. If Naruto has a fever, he uses cold compresses to bring the temperature down. He monitors Naruto's condition closely and adjusts his care accordingly, making sure Naruto is on the road to recovery as quickly as possible.
At first, it might start with Iruka showing simple kindness to Naruto, like making sure he has enough to eat. As time goes on, Naruto starts to see Iruka as a father figure. He looks up to Iruka and wants to make him proud.
Iruka influences Naruto's early development by being a positive role model. Naruto looks up to Iruka and wants to be like him. Iruka's kindness and belief in Naruto give Naruto the confidence to start believing in himself.
Perhaps in a fanfiction that focuses on Legolas' softer side and his desire for a family. He could adopt a girl who has special powers or is from a persecuted background, and he vows to keep her safe and help her grow.
One scenario could be when some villagers start to be mean to Naruto. Iruka steps in and scolds them, telling them Naruto is just a kid. Another could be during a training exercise that gets a bit too dangerous for Naruto, and Iruka quickly intervenes.