Fanfic where Naruto is younger than in canon: What are some interesting plot points that could be explored?

One interesting plotline could be Naruto taking on more complex diplomatic missions as he is older. He might use his charisma and newfound wisdom to bridge gaps between different ninja villages. Another could be his relationships evolving in different ways. For example, his friendship with Sasuke could lead to them collaborating on a new level of ninja research or training methods. Also, his relationship with Hinata could show a more mature side of their love, perhaps dealing with the challenges of raising a family while still being important figures in the village.

Well, one possible implication is that his relationships might develop differently. For example, his friendships with Sasuke and Sakura could have a different dynamic. Since he's younger, he might be more naive and rely more on others, changing the way they interact.

Perhaps Naruto discovers some long - lost teachings or secrets of Sarutobi and goes on a journey to master them. This could lead to him facing various opponents who also want those secrets for their own evil purposes. He would then have to protect Sarutobi's legacy while also growing as a ninja.

Perhaps a new threat emerges that specifically targets Naruto when he was younger. Kakashi and Naruto from the present must enter a hidden dimension where the younger Naruto is trapped. There, they encounter strange creatures and challenges. Along the way, Kakashi teaches Naruto more about his Sharingan and how to use it effectively to protect the young Naruto. As they progress, they discover that the real mastermind behind the threat is someone they least expected, and they have to use all their skills to defeat this foe and return to their own time.

Naruto's abilities would develop quite differently. Firstly, his understanding of chakra nature would be very limited at a younger age. He might not even be aware of his own chakra nature for a while. His ability to learn new jutsu would be slower too. Instead of quickly learning new techniques like in the canon, he'd have to spend more time on each one. His ability to use the Nine - Tails' power would be more erratic. For example, it could manifest in ways he can't control, like sudden bursts of power during training. And his teamwork skills, which are important in the ninja world, would take longer to develop. He'd be more focused on proving himself individually rather than working well with others at first.

Well, one interesting plot point could be how the main character, who might be in the shadows, interacts with the known Naruto characters in unexpected ways. For example, they could be secretly influencing the major events in the Naruto world without others realizing it.

One interesting plot point could be how the village reacts to this unexpected union. Since Naruto is a very important figure in the village and Shikamaru is also highly respected, the villagers' opinions and reactions would be a big part of the story. Another could be how they handle the parenting aspect, considering their different personalities. Naruto is more impulsive and energetic while Shikamaru is laid - back and strategic.

One interesting plotline could be Naruto having to deal with more complex political situations in the ninja world due to his age. Maybe he has to navigate treaties and alliances in a more hands - on way. Another could be his relationships with his friends evolving differently. For example, his bond with Sasuke might be more of an equal partnership in handling threats to the village, rather than the typical rivalry - turned - friendship we see in the canon.

One interesting plot point could be Naruto's struggle to maintain his positive outlook in such a dark place. The Blood Prison is known for its harshness, and seeing how Naruto stays true to himself would be engaging. Another could be his interactions with the other inmates. He might form unexpected alliances or rivalries.

Well, one possible plot could be that the Naruto characters find themselves in a world where the normal rules of their own canon are broken. For example, ninjas suddenly lose their ability to use chakra but gain some other strange powers from the 'canon busters' concept. Naruto might have to figure out how to lead his friends in this new and strange situation, and they could start exploring different ways to fight and survive.