In some fanfictions, a mutual friend or mentor plays a big role. For instance, Kakashi could set up a series of training exercises where they have to cooperate. During these exercises, they start to respect each other's skills and personalities more, which leads to them becoming best friends. It's like Kakashi is the catalyst that brings them closer together.
One common scenario is that they get trapped in a different dimension together. In this strange new place, they have to rely on each other to survive. Without the distractions of their normal lives and the expectations of the village, they really get to know each other on a deeper level and become best friends.
A common scenario is when Naruto is on the verge of death. The Kyuubi realizes that if Naruto dies, it might also be in a bad situation. So, it decides to cooperate and in the process, they start to understand each other better and become friends. Another is when Naruto enters the Kyuubi's lair in his mindscape and instead of fighting, he tries to have a peaceful conversation, which leads to friendship.
In many fanfictions, they might start by being forced to work together on a mission. They gradually see each other's true selves, like Naruto seeing Sasuke's underlying pain and Sasuke seeing Naruto's unwavering determination. This mutual understanding forms the basis of their friendship.
One common scenario is after a major fight between them. Naruto might feel that the relationship has become too strained and decides to avoid Sasuke to give both of them time to cool down. For instance, if they had a very intense battle over different ideologies and Naruto realizes that they can't immediately reconcile, he would avoid Sasuke.
One common scenario is during a mission. Naruto might be paired with a new character in a team for a mission. Through facing challenges together, they develop mutual respect and friendship. They learn to rely on each other's skills, like Naruto's strength and the other character's unique abilities.
A possible plot could be that Naruto and Sasuke are sent on a diplomatic mission to another village. Along the way, they face many challenges like harsh weather and bandit attacks. Naruto's ability to stay positive and Sasuke's combat skills help them survive. During their journey, they have deep conversations about their dreams and fears. This new understanding of each other makes them realize they have more in common than they thought, leading to friendship.
In fanfiction, Naruto and Sasuke might become friends when they have to protect someone important to both of them. Let's say it's a young orphan who reminds them of their own difficult pasts. Naruto's positive attitude and Sasuke's protective nature would kick in. They would work together to keep the child safe. Through this shared experience and the emotions it stirs, they start to see each other in a new light and become friends.
A common scenario is when Naruto is given a special mission or task that Sasuke feels he should have been chosen for. Sasuke's pride and his competitive nature with Naruto make him jealous. He might think that Naruto is being favored over him.
One common scenario is during training sessions. Naruto's enthusiasm, Sasuke's determination, and Sakura's focus combine well. They push each other to improve their skills. Another is when they are on a mission together. Naruto might crack jokes to lighten the mood, Sasuke stays focused on the mission goals, and Sakura uses her medical skills and strategic thinking to keep them all in good shape. They learn to trust each other more in these situations.
A common scenario is Naruto using his friendship - power. His bond with his friends gives him extra strength, and he uses this emotional power to overpower Sasuke. Another is that Naruto discovers a new power within himself during the fight, like a hidden form of the Nine - Tails' chakra.
A key element is the understanding between them. In fanfiction, they often show Naruto being able to understand Sasuke's pain and Sasuke coming to appreciate Naruto's unwavering loyalty. For example, in some stories, Naruto can sense when Sasuke is about to make a rash decision and stops him.