The Long Sword can also be a top pick. It offers good mobility along with decent damage. The Spirit Gauge mechanic lets you build up and unleash powerful attacks. You can easily dodge monster attacks and then counter with your own strikes, which is really useful when you're trying to progress through the story quickly. Plus, it has a wide range of combos that can adapt to different monster behaviors.
One reason could be exhaustion. Naruto has been through a lot in the original story. In a fanfic, if he is continuously put through more and more difficult situations without proper breaks, he might just give up out of sheer tiredness.
Orochimaru could also be a character to beat up Naruto in a fanfic. He's always been interested in the power of the Nine - Tails and Naruto as a whole. He might see an opportunity to capture Naruto and in the process, end up beating him up to subdue him.
Sasuke could be one. Given their complex relationship, there could be a situation where Sasuke's newfound power or different ideology leads him to fight and beat Naruto in a fan - made story.
Yes, in fanfiction, Naruto can level up. Fanfiction writers often take creative liberties to enhance Naruto's abilities beyond what is shown in the original series. They might give him new jutsu or power - ups as the story progresses.
One possible reason could be that Naruto realizes Sakura's true feelings for Sasuke are unwavering. After many attempts to win her heart, he might come to the conclusion that he's just chasing after someone who will never love him back. So, he decides to give up and focus on other aspects of his life, like his ninja duties or his friendships with other people in the village.
Maybe Naruto gets tired of always chasing after Sasuke. He has his own life and dreams too. He might think that he has sacrificed enough of his time and energy on Sasuke, and it's time to focus on himself and the village. He could start to believe that Sasuke has made his own choices and he can't keep forcing Sasuke to come back.
One possible reason could be that Naruto realizes Sasuke is too far gone in his quest for revenge. Naruto might see that no matter how much he tries, Sasuke won't change his ways, so he gives up. For example, if Sasuke keeps attacking innocent people in his pursuit of power to defeat Itachi's enemies, Naruto might finally lose hope.
Another factor could be the nature of his ninja life. It's full of uncertainties and risks. He may worry that if he falls in love, his loved one could become a target for his enemies. Naruto has made many enemies over the years, and he wouldn't want to put someone he loves in danger, so he decides to give up on love.