Obviously, Kankuro could be a main character as he is a well - known puppet master in Naruto. For the harem members, it could include some of the female ninjas like Temari, who has a strong personality. Another could be Sakura, as she is a main female character in the original series and could be part of an interesting dynamic with the puppet master.
A possible plot is that the puppet master's harem is from different villages, and they have to overcome the distrust between their home villages. The puppet master uses his skills and the power of his relationships to bring them together. They work towards a common goal, such as protecting a sacred puppet that has the power to bring peace among the villages. As they do this, they grow closer and develop deeper emotional bonds.
Typically, in such fanfiction, Naruto is likely to be at the center of the story. The 'puppet' aspect might involve characters related to the puppet - using techniques in Naruto, like Kankuro perhaps. The 'harem' part means there will be multiple characters, usually female, having some sort of relationship with Naruto. It could be romantic, or they might be allies in a unique way.
One common theme is the power of the puppeteer. Since the main character is often associated with puppets, their skills and the mystery behind the puppet - related abilities are explored. Another theme is the relationships within the harem. It usually shows how the main character manages different types of relationships with the female characters, like friendship that might turn into something more.
One possibility is that Naruto could use his new puppet - making skills to create unique puppets inspired by his friends. For example, a puppet modeled after Sasuke with some of his signature moves. Another aspect could be how he combines his ninjutsu with puppet control. He might infuse his Rasengan into a puppet for a powerful attack.
One common theme is the power of the puppets. Fanfictions often explore how powerful a puppet master can be with their creations. Another theme is the mystery behind the art of puppetry. It could be about the secrets of making unique puppets or controlling them in special ways. Also, the relationship between the puppet master and their puppets is a frequent theme, like whether they see them as just tools or something more.
Start with the character's abilities. A Naruto OC puppet master could have the ability to control multiple puppets at once, or maybe they can create puppets that can transform. As for appearance, they could have long fingers for better string manipulation. Their training should also be part of the story. Did they train alone in the woods? Or with a master who taught them forbidden puppet techniques? You also need to think about how they fit into the Naruto universe. Will they befriend Naruto or be more of an anti - hero?
It could be a dark wizard who has found a way to control others from the shadows. Maybe someone who was once defeated but has now returned with this new and terrifying power.
It could be an unknown dark wizard who has been lurking in the shadows all this time. Maybe he was once a student at Hogwarts who was shunned and now wants revenge by controlling everyone.
One great Naruto male OC puppet master fanfiction is 'The Puppeteer's Ascent'. It has an engaging plot where the OC uses his puppet skills in unique battles. The character development is well - done, and it fits nicely into the Naruto universe.