One interesting plot point could be Naruto's earlier struggle with loneliness. Since he'd be younger, he might be even more isolated in the village. For example, he might have a harder time making friends his age, which could lead to different character development. He could also face more intense bullying as a younger child, which would further fuel his determination to be recognized. Another aspect could be his relationship with Iruka sensei. If Naruto is younger, Iruka might take on an even more parental role, guiding Naruto through his early ninja training in a more hands - on way.
Well, a possible plot point is his relationship with the Nine - Tails. Being younger, Naruto might have less control over the Nine - Tails' power, leading to some unexpected outbursts. This could make the villagers even more fearful of him. Also, in terms of his ninja training, he might start at a disadvantage compared to his canon self. He'd have to work harder to catch up with his peers, which could show his growth over time. And his interactions with Sasuke could be different too. Maybe they'd be more rivals from an earlier age, with Naruto trying to prove himself to Sasuke even more desperately.
In a fanfic where Naruto is younger than in canon, his relationship with the Third Hokage could be a major plot point. The Third Hokage might be more protective of Naruto as a younger child. He could give Naruto special tasks or training that are more age - appropriate. Also, Naruto's dreams of becoming Hokage might be more of a childish fantasy at first. As he grows younger, he'd have to face the reality of the ninja world step by step. His encounter with Jiraiya could also be different. Jiraiya might see Naruto as a more vulnerable child and take him under his wing earlier to teach him important ninja skills and values.
Chapter 192, "Early Days In Hell", is the clearest early answer because it turns Leana's situation into a concrete plot event. The chapter gives readers a real answer by opening on The sun blazed mercilessly overhead as Damon, Anaya, and Daveon stood... and ending on intense," she said, her voice carrying over the quiet crunch of their....
Chapter 421, "I Bleed Enough For Everyone", is the clearest early answer because it turns Damien's situation into a concrete plot event. A useful checkpoint is the way the scene starts with The shower was brief but refreshing, steam rolling from the small... and follows through with If you intend to walk our path, boy, then walk it with the same.... By the close, At least you're not blind to the obvious., and the chapter closes with Damien smirked faintly. "Don't worry.
Chapter 244, "Checking Out The Cave", is the clearest early answer because it turns Garrick's situation into a concrete plot event. A useful checkpoint is the way the scene starts with There existed not a location that was ever truly quiet, but as the... and follows through with I am still recovering but you all matter to me too!!. By the close, But another took its place immediately., and the chapter closes with I am still recovering but you all matter to me too!! Thank you guys!!
Chapter 439, "Captain Veyne's Dead", is the clearest early answer because the violence around Damien becomes final instead of hypothetical. The chapter turns that into something concrete by moving from The next morning wasn't the same. to Not before your mother!" The soldiers looked away, some bowing their....
Chapter 238, "Inside Of The Tree Hideout", is the clearest early answer because it turns Damien's situation into a concrete plot event. A useful checkpoint is the way the scene starts with The inside the tree hideout was damp and the scent of unwashed bodies... and follows through with He'd brought an opponent for Aquila.. By the close, Get up, scum," one barked at a young boy who had collapsed in..., and the chapter closes with "Have fun." Damien smirked.
Chapter 252, "Final Test In Hell", is the clearest early answer because it turns Damon's situation into a concrete plot event. The chapter turns that into something concrete by moving from The sky above the First Layer of Hell burned in its usual eternal... to As Damon sped through the battlefield, collecting his tenth core and....
Chapter 233, "Battle In A Lake", is the clearest early answer because the buildup finally cashes out in a real clash. A useful checkpoint is the way the scene starts with Gaahh!!" Damien's eyes snapped open, and he immediately tensed, his... and follows through with Nothing seemed ordinary to him anymore..
Chapter 176, "Blood That Suppresses Magic Essence", is the clearest early answer because it turns Damien's situation into a concrete plot event. The chapter turns that into something concrete by moving from Damien arrived in front of the Mercenary Guild building, his steps... to I figured since their mission in Westmont was done, it was time to....
Chapter 220, "The Fifth Summon", is the clearest early answer because it turns Damien's situation into a concrete plot event. It opens with They'd only resumed their journey when Damien paused, gazing at the... and closes on A savage grin spread across Damien's face.. The key payoff is that the chapter closes with "Time to get back to the others," Damien said, climbing onto the wyvern's back., which gives the main cast a stronger narrative position and pushes the power growth onward.
Chapter 85, "Unbridled Fury I", is the clearest early answer because it turns Damon's situation into a concrete plot event. The setup is Two assassins moved through the crowded market streets with silent..., but the pressure keeps building through Silver hair and piercing blue eyes made Lord Terrace and his son,....