A possible plot is that Gaara is having trouble controlling his inner demon again. Naruto, having experienced similar issues, offers to help him. They go on a journey to find a way to calm Gaara's inner turmoil. During this journey, they encounter various challenges and also meet old friends and foes. Through shared hardships and Naruto's constant encouragement, Gaara finally gains better control. Their friendship is strengthened through this life - changing experience.
In the fanfic, Gaara and Naruto meet by chance in the Hidden Leaf Village. Naruto is immediately intrigued by Gaara's silent and brooding nature. He tries to befriend him, inviting Gaara to eat ramen with him. At first, Gaara is hesitant, but Naruto's warm smile makes him give in. As they share a bowl of ramen, they start to talk about their dreams and fears. Gaara opens up about his lonely childhood, and Naruto shares his own experiences of being an outcast. This moment of vulnerability cements their friendship, and from then on, they are inseparable.
In a fanfic where Naruto and Gaara are best friends, you can expect a lot of emotional support between them. Naruto's positive and energetic nature would contrast with Gaara's more reserved and initially troubled self. They'd probably train together, with Naruto helping Gaara to open up more and Gaara teaching Naruto some of his unique sand techniques. Their friendship could also lead to them facing the challenges in their respective villages together, forging a stronger bond through shared difficulties.
In such a fanfic, they might start by sharing their lonely childhood experiences. Naruto could tell Gaara about being shunned in the village, and Gaara could share his own feelings of being feared. This mutual understanding could lead to them training together, with Naruto teaching Gaara some of his unique jutsu, and Gaara showing Naruto how to better control his chakra in the desert environment.
The appeal of a fanfic with Naruto and Gaara as best friends lies in their contrasting personalities. Naruto is the loud, boisterous one full of life, while Gaara was once a lonely and brooding figure. Seeing them come together in friendship is heartwarming. It's like two different worlds colliding in a positive way.
Often, a battle or a common enemy can be the catalyst for their friendship in fanfiction. Let's say there's a new, powerful foe threatening both Konoha and Suna. Naruto and Gaara are forced to fight side by side. During this time, Naruto's unwavering determination and positive attitude start to influence Gaara. Gaara, in turn, shows Naruto his own strength and loyalty. This shared experience of facing danger together makes them respect and like each other, thus forming a friendship.
One common theme is redemption. Gaara was once a troubled and lonely character, and through his friendship with Naruto, he finds a path to redemption. Another theme is acceptance. They accept each other's differences, like Naruto's boisterous nature and Gaara's more reserved personality.
They're similar in their tenacity. Naruto never gives up, no matter how tough the situation is. He keeps fighting against powerful enemies like Pain or Sasuke. Gaara is the same. He has faced numerous challenges, especially when dealing with the internal and external threats to his village. Despite his past traumas, he stands firm. Also, they both understand the pain of being an outcast, which makes them empathetic towards others who are suffering.
One common theme is the power of friendship. Their bond helps them both grow and overcome their respective traumas. For example, Naruto's friendship gives Gaara a reason to believe in himself more.
Perhaps they could start a training program for young ninjas from both their villages. This would not only strengthen the bond between their villages but also give them a chance to teach the next generation their values. In the process, they'd face challenges from traditionalists who don't want to change the old ways.