They could develop a mentor - mentee relationship. Itachi uses his knowledge of the Sharingan to teach Naruto new combat techniques. As they train together, they bond over their shared experiences of loss and their desire to protect the people they care about. Naruto might also help Itachi come to terms with his past actions and find some peace within himself.
Their relationship could be developed through a series of flashbacks. For instance, Itachi could recall moments from Naruto's childhood that he observed while in the ANBU. These memories could make him see Naruto in a new light. Meanwhile, Naruto could learn about Itachi's past and the sacrifices he made. This exchange of knowledge could build a bond between them based on empathy and respect. In addition, they could train together in secret, with Itachi teaching Naruto some of his ANBU skills, which would also strengthen their relationship.
Well, it could start with a simple moment of curiosity. Naruto, being the friendly and outgoing kid, might be attracted to baby Itachi's calm and somewhat mysterious presence. They could start by sharing simple things like toys or food. As time goes on, Naruto's determination and positive attitude could inspire Itachi, and Itachi's intelligence and calmness could influence Naruto in return.
In some fanfictions, it could be through a special jutsu or ritual. Maybe Itachi, before his death, transferred his Sharingan to Naruto in a unique way, perhaps using a forbidden technique that was known only to a few in the Uchiha clan.
At first, it's likely to be very awkward. Naruto is a very open and energetic person, while Itachi is more reserved. But as they are forced to spend time together because of the arranged marriage, they start to find common ground. For instance, they both care deeply about protecting the village in their own ways.
Itachi would be very strict in Naruto's training, but also very caring. Naruto would look up to Itachi and try to learn as much as he can from him. As Naruto grows, he might start to have his own ideas which could sometimes clash with Itachi's. But through communication and understanding, their relationship would become deeper. Itachi would share his past experiences with Naruto, which would make Naruto understand the complexity of the ninja world better, and in return, Naruto's innocent and determined nature would slowly change Itachi, making him more hopeful about the future of the ninja world.
Their relationship would deepen. Itachi becoming Hokage would mean that Naruto has someone he truly admires in the highest position. Naruto would be more eager to prove himself worthy in Itachi's eyes. Itachi, on the other hand, would see Naruto as a symbol of hope and the future of the village. They would likely have private conversations about the future of Konoha, with Itachi sharing his long - term plans and Naruto providing his unique perspective based on his own experiences. This would create a bond that is not just based on respect but also on a shared vision for the village.
One possible fanfiction could be that Itachi, on his deathbed, decides to transfer his Sharingan to Naruto. He sees in Naruto the potential to change the Uchiha's fate and the ninja world. Naruto, with the Sharingan, gains new abilities like enhanced perception and the ability to copy some jutsus more easily. He uses this new power to better understand the Uchiha and bridge the gap between them and the rest of the village.
They could develop a mentor - mentee relationship. Itachi, with his vast knowledge and skills, could guide Naruto. Naruto, in turn, could show Itachi his unwavering spirit, which might even inspire Itachi in some ways.
In this kind of fanfiction, it could be developed through shared traumas. Naruto, who has his own painful past, might find a connection with Itachi's complex and tragic backstory. They could start to understand each other on a deeper level during some missions or encounters where they have to rely on one another. Naruto's optimistic nature might start to break through Itachi's cold exterior, gradually leading to feelings of love.
They could start as rivals in academics or sports. For example, if there's a science competition in the highschool, both Itachi and Sakura are determined to win. However, as they prepare, they start to respect each other's intelligence and hard work. This mutual respect could be the first step in developing a relationship.